Introduction
In Luke 17, Jesus continued to contrast the path of those who trust him with the way of the Pharisees. The focus of Luke 17:1-4 is the Christian’s relationship to others. Specifically, we must “pay attention to ourselves” so that we do not sin against others, thus causing them to stumble, and we must quickly extend forgiveness to those who sin against us.
The hymns in the service highlight the theme of forgiveness and focus primarily on the forgiveness with have in Christ. Understanding that gospel truth lays the foundation for our kind and forgiving attitude toward others.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 133:1-3
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Choir: Shout to the Lord with a Song of Praise
Hymn 27: Mighty God, While Angels Bless Thee
Note: This hymn begins with amazement that we mortals have the privilege of joining the angels to proclaim the praise of our mighty God. In view of Christ’s “free redemption,” we resolve to break our “guilty silence.” “Silent I can never be, for salvation’s wondrous story . . . .” We, though guilty, have been ransomed by our great Savior.
Hymn Insert: Depth of Mercy! Can There Be
Notes: This moving hymn confesses sin in vivid language. It leads us to wonder at the thought that Jesus “disarms the wrath of God.” It bids us look to the throne of God: “There for me the Savior stands, shows his wounds and spreads his hands.” These emblems of love speak of deep, deep mercy reserved for all who, turning from sin, cry out to the Lord for forgiveness.
Scripture Reading: Ephesians 4:17-5:2
Note: In this passage, the apostle Paul contrasts the Christian’s new life with the way he or she used to live. He brings the contrast to a climax with the call to forgive one another “as God in Christ has forgiven you.”
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 434: Our Great Savior
Notes: This reflective hymn explores the joy that comes from knowing Jesus. The final stanza expresses our faith in the One who has granted us forgiveness.
Jesus! I do fully trust Him,
More than all in Him I find,
He hath granted me forgiveness,
I am His, and He is mine.
Message: Forgiven and Forgiving
Luke 17:1-4
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn 371: It Is Well with My Soul
Note: When we firmly grasp the deep significance of gospel truth (Christ’s death and resurrection that secure our eternal hope), our joyful thanks transform our perspective in all circumstances. Together we sing of our joy in the gospel. “My sin, O the bliss of this glorious thought, my sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more.” And we anticipate the realization of our hope, “Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight.” Therefore, with joyful praise, we proclaim in any situation, “It is well with my soul.”
Prayer Response: Mark Buhr
Benediction: John Miles