Introduction
In Luke 17:1-4 (last week’s text), Jesus gave the disciples difficult instruction regarding forgiveness. Their response (Luke 17:5-6) was a plea for greater faith. Jesus taught them that God can do great things in the lives of those who have faith—even a little faith.
The hymns selected for our worship service emphasize the Christian’s faith in God that is grounded in the gospel for Jesus Christ.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Proverbs 3:5-8
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 46: O Worship the King
Note: Based on Psalm 104, this hymn calls us to worship our great God, the King. He is glorious, almighty, loving, eternal, and gracious. In contrast (v. 4) we are “frail children of dust, and feeble as frail.” But, we sing, “in Thee do we trust, nor find Thee to fail.”
Hymn 412: No Other Plea
Note: In our day, many people talk about faith. Often they assign value to the act of believing. In Scripture, the value of faith is in the object or focus of belief. Thus we sing, “My faith has found a resting-place . . . I trust the Ever-living One,” namely Jesus who died to save us.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:1-40
Note: The Scripture is clear that we cannot come to God without faith. We must believe that he exists and rewards those who seek him. Even small faith places us in the lineage of a long line of believers whom God rewarded.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 288: I Hear the Words of Love
Note: “The words of love” were spoken from the cross, thus we “see the mighty sacrifice” that established our relationship with God. Our love for him is never constant, but his love for us “remains the same.” His truth is, therefore, the basis of our faith.
Message: A Little Faith
Luke 17:5-6
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn Insert: Credo
Note: “Credo” means “I believe.” This is a hymn that expresses the essence of the truth that Christians confess. The life, death, and resurrection of Christ lie at the very core of our faith.
Prayer Response: Mark Williams
Benediction: John Miles