Introduction
This Lord’s Day the sermon text (Luke 13:18-21) combines two parables that have often been misunderstood and misapplied. It describes the power of God that will bring to pass the great Kingdom of Christ at his return. This outcome is sure despite small beginnings of his first coming.
The hymns selected for the worship service center around the theme of Christ’s coming Kingdom.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Welcome
Prelude
Call to Worship: Malachi 1:11; Psalm 9:1-2
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 13 Rejoice, the Lord is King!
Notes: Charles Wesley’s exuberant hymn calls us to rejoice and give thanks because Christ is our King. Jesus reigns and “his kingdom cannot fail.” He shall come, defeat his foes, and all our sins destroy. Thus we “rejoice in glorious hope!”
Hymn 220 Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken
Note: God promised Israel a new King, a New Covenant, and a New City. All will be fulfilled through Jesus, the Christ. In this hymn we anticipate the glories of the New Jerusalem where Jesus will reign forever on David’s throne. This is the great conclusion anticipated in the parables of the sermon text.
Scripture Reading: Psalm 72:1-19
Note: This Psalm of Solomon is a prayer for the blessings of the Lord upon the king of Israel. It is a prayer applicable to all of her godly kings throughout history but is ultimately appropriate for the promised King, Messiah.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 51 Jesus Shall Reign
Notes: The hope of God’s people is anchored to God’s promised King. One day Jesus’ kingdom will “stretch from shore to shore.” In anticipation of his return, Isaac Watts summons us to praise, “Let every creature rise and bring honor and glory to our King.”
Message: Kingdom Power: Small Beginnings, Glorious End
Text: Luke 13:18-21
Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn 588: A Mighty Fortress is our God
Note: Martin Luther’s majestic hymn reminds us that today the evil we face in our lives and our mission cannot overcome God’s plan. Our ancient foe rages against us, and if we depend on our own strength, our “striving would be losing. Yet we know the outcome of it all because we have the “right man on our side. His kingdom is forever.”
Prayer Response: Mark Williams
Benediction: John Miles