Introduction
This Lord’s Day we continue our study of Luke’s account of the Olivet Discourse. Jesus explained that the current age that climaxes with his Second Coming will be characterized by persecution. It is not easy to follow Jesus. But the seasons of persecution bring opportunity to bear witness for the Name of Jesus.
The hymns selected for this service anticipate the return of Jesus.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 33:18-22
Invocation
Hymn 44 (tune LYONS, 46) Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim
Note: This hymn calls us to “publish abroad his wonderful name.” Proclamation of Jesus’ Name is a priority regardless of the cost.
PROCLAMATION
Hymn Insert Priest and Victim, Jesus Dies
Note: This hymn beautifully declares the work of Christ from his death to his ascent to his throne. We long for the day when, “King forever, He shall reign!”
Scripture Reading Acts 5:17-42
Note: Acts 5 describes an event in life of the early church that was a direct fulfillment of Jesus’ prediction in the sermon text. His followers were dragged before the court and suffered persecution for the sake of Jesus’ Name.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 417 (tune: ARLINGTON, 403) Behold the Amazing Gift of Love
Note: First John 3:1-3 is the basis of this hymn. God calls us his sons—and that is what we are! We do not yet know what we shall be like when he appears, but this we know: we shall be like him for we shall see him face to face.
A hope so great, and so divine,
May trials well endure
Message: Persecution and Proclamation
Luke 21:12-19
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn Insert The King Shall Come
Notes: When Jesus comes again, the glory he displays will be brighter than at his nativity or when he rose.
O brighter than that glorious morn shall this fair morning be,
When Christ, our King, in beauty comes, and we His face shall see.
And so we sing, “Come quickly, King of kings.”
Prayer Response: Mike Towry
Benediction: John Miles