Introduction
The 25th chapter of the Baptist Confession of Faith focuses our attention on marriage. It has been an important topic in every generation, but it holds a special timeliness now. Marriage—and all the biblical truths that support it—is under assault. The message this Lord’s Day will plainly proclaim God’s truth about marriage and God’s intention for men and women, His image bearers. It will also unmask what lies behind today’s assault on the institution and provide guidance for the Christian’s appropriate response.
The elements of the service uphold the authority of God’s word and God’s authority over his creation. They point us to Christ who alone holds the solution to the world’s descent into chaos.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude: Hymn 222 (1-2, 4-6) The Church’s One Foundation
Call to Worship: Job 38:1-7
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn 19 I Sing the Mighty Power of God
Note: Isaac Watts captures the abiding purpose of all creation in the lyrics of this hymn, namely the display of the glory of God (cf. Psalm 19:1). We sing of God’s ordaining wisdom seen in the created order, the creating power of God’s word, and the truth that everything is directed by order from God’s throne.
Worship through Giving
Hymn 61 This Is My Father’s World
Note: All the world (rocks and trees, skies and seas) are wonders wrought by God’s hand. Because he made all things, all things belong to him—it is his world. Despite the wrong that marrs his creation, God is still the Ruler.
Scripture Reading Ephesians 5:1-33
Note: Christians often cite Ephesians 5:22ff. to make the comparison between marriage and Christ’s relationship with his church. This is good and important. However, and important aspect of the context frequently gets overlooked. Christ-like marriages are the outflow of life in the Spirit of God–a spiritual life that distinguishes between Christians and pagans.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 18 Thou, the God Who Changes Never
Notes: This hymn lauds the Triune God for his work in our salvation. In the sermon text, Paul reminds his readers that they must show each other love by clearly proclaiming God’s message. This hymn is a beautiful summary of the Bible’s core message, declaring God’s gracious and sovereign oversight of his creation, what Christ did to redeem us from tragic the effects of our rebellion, the glorious outcome that awaits us.
Message: Standing Against the Assault on Marriage
Text: Genesis 2:18-25
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn 731: O Give Us Homes
Note: We respond with a prayer for our homes.
O give us homes built firm upon the Savior,
Where Christ is Head, and Counselor and Guide;
Where ev’ry child is taught His love and favor
And give his heart to Christ, the crucified.
Prayer Response: Mike Towry
Benediction: Mark Williams