Introduction
Luke 20:1-8 begins Luke’s account of the third day of Jesus’ passion week. It also begins his account of a series of challenges Israel’s rulers made to Jesus’ authority. They sought to trap him by goading him into saying something they could us to condemn him. In this exchange, Jesus turns the tables, catching them in their own snare. The crux of matter is the question of authority. Jesus made it clear that in rejecting him, the leaders were rejecting the authority of God.
The hymns selected for our service emphasize the authority God has entrusted to King Jesus.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 113:1-4
Invocation
Hymn O God Beyond All Praising
Notes: We set the tone for the service with a hymn that reminds us of our ultimate focus in all things. God, alone, is worthy of our praise; we can never exhaust the praise that is due his name. Praise expresses our love for him, so we sing, “Then hear, O gracious Savior, the love we bring that we who know your favor may serve you as our King.”
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 46: O Worship the King
Note: Based on Psalm 104, this hymn calls us to worship our great God, the King who is all-glorious, pavilioned in splendor, and whose robe is the light.
Scripture Reading Psalm 47:1-9
Note: In the sermon text, the leaders of Israel rejected the authority of Jesus and in so doing they rejected the authority of their great God. This Psalm is a reminder of the great greatness of her King.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 31 The Name High Over All
Note: God the Father has made “Jesus,” the name high over all other names. Because Jesus came to own our cause, his name is “dear” to all whom he has saved. Therefore, we declare, “’Tis all my business here below, To cry, Behold the Lamb!”
Message: “Who Do You Think You Are?”
Luke 20:1-8
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn Psalm 23b
Note: This is a beloved and comforting psalm set to music. The composer included a stanza (3) that connects the Shepherd theme of Jesus’ parable in Luke 15:3-7. This lyrical version of the Psalm recognizes the role of Israel’s King as shepherd both rules and cares for God’s people.
Prayer Response: Mark Buhr
Benediction: John Miles