Introduction
The fourth chapter of The Baptist Confession of Faith explores the topic, “Creation.” This brief statement sets forth a series of simple biblical truths that were universally held by Christians throughout the centuries and form the foundation of a biblical worldview. Without these truths, Christianity cannot exist, and any free society will collapse.
The hymns selected for the worship service offer praise to our great Creator.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 8:1-4
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 19 I Sing the Mighty Power of God
Note: Isaac Watts captures the abiding purpose of all creation in the lyrics of this hymn, namely the display of the glory of God (cf. Psalm 19:1). We sing of God’s ordaining wisdom seen in the created order, the creating power of God’s word, and the truth that everything is directed by order from God’s throne.
Worship through Giving
Hymn 61 This Is My Father’s World
Note: All the world (rocks and trees, skies and seas) are wonders wrought by God’s hand. Because he made all things, all things belong to him—it is his world. Despite the wrong that has marred his creation, God is still the Ruler.
Scripture Reading Job 38:1-7; 42:1-6
Note: Through the first 37 chapters of Job, Job has a frustrating debate with his so-called friends about the cause of his suffering. Finally, God speaks to Job. 38:1-7 records God’s initial words. He says, in essence, were you there when I created this world? 42:1-6 records Job’s final response. Twice he quotes God’s challenge (3a, 4) and replies with appropriate humility and repentance.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 90 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Note: We typically sing Charles Wesley’s famous hymn at Christmas time. We conclude the service with it to ascribe glory to Christ because he came to make it possible for God and sinners to be reconciled. Specifically, he came to “efface” the marred image of Adam we all bear and replace it with the perfect image of the Second Adam, Jesus Christ.
Message: Made in God’s Image
Genesis 1:26-31
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn (Insert) Doxology
Note: Doxology, that is, praise of His glory. Thomas Ken’s well-known hymn calls all creatures, men and angels, to extol the glories of our Triune God, source of all good things. This version has an additional three verses of praise directed to each member of the Godhead: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Prayer Response: Mark Buhr
Benediction: John Miles
Hymn Insert Lyrics, Doxology:
Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
Praise Father, King enthroned in light;
Who works His will with strength and might;
Glory to Him, His people sing;
From Him, through Him, to Him all things.
Praise Son, High King and Royal Priest;
Eternal God and Prince of Peace;
Honor to Him, His church and bride,
By His blood saved and sanctified.
Praise Spirit, Gift from heav’n above,
Whose grace and joy is life and love,
Esteem to Him, all ye indwelt;
By Him the pow’r of sin expelled.
Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen.
Words: Thomas Ken, 1637–1711; David Huffstutler, 1982–
Music: Genevan Psalter, 1551; attr. To Louis Bourgeouis, 1510–1561