October 29, 2017

Before We Worship

The Protestant Reformation began when Martin Luther nailed the 95 Theses on October 31, 1517 to the Wittenberg Castle Door. Luther’s 95 Theses were 95 theological points that he felt warranted discussion in the Roman Catholic Church (RCC). Luther’s initial aim was to rehabilitate the RCC. But it became increasingly clear that Luther and those who protested (Protestants) against the errors of the RCC could not remain inside the institution that not only resisted reforming according to the Word of God, but actively fought against it. The great division between RCC and the Protestants was a reluctant, but a necessary one, in order to preserve God’s whole council and the integrity of the gospel.

This October 31 marks the 500th anniversary of Luther’s 95 Theses. It is therefore fitting to review our history. But we must resist the urge to make our worship services about the heroes of the Protestant Reformation. After all, we have not left behind the RCC practice of venerating their saints only to have our own version of hero worship. Instead, our worship service focuses on the very heart of the Protestant Reformation: Jesus Christ. Making Christ central in our worship and life is the only way we can truly honor the legacy of the Protestant Reformation and be the heirs of its legacy.

Very fittingly, then, we turn to Psalm 110, a prolonged meditation on the person and work of Christ. David was a prophet by the simple fact that he spoke of Christ to come, as he does in Ps 110. But David was also a king, and a priest. David was truly a type of Christ to come, in whom the offices of prophet, priest, and king are united. Indeed, David’s Lord (Jesus) is king: “The LORD says to my Lord: Sit at my right hand, until I make your enemies your footstool.” As King Jesus wages war against rebellious kings of the earth and “He will execute judgment among the nations”. Jesus is also honored with a priesthood greater than Israel’s Aaronic priesthood: “The LORD has sworn and will not change his mind, You are a priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.” In Jesus sovereign kingship and eternal priesthood are united. As King he defends us. As Priest he prays for us. As King he is honored. As Priest he leads us in worship. As King Jesus is mighty. As Priest he is tender. As King he wields scepter and sword. As Priest he offers us bread and cup.

In Jesus we have everything we need for salvation, hope for the future, and strength for today. Let us worship Jesus and love him only. This is the legacy of the Reformation.

Call to Worship

Psalm 110 (reading responsively from TH p. 825)

Trinity Hymnal #92 “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”

Trinity Hymnal #731 “Doxology”

Prayer of Invocation

The Reading and Exposition of the Law

1 Thessalonians 5:6–11 (p. 987)

Prayer of Confession

The Proclamation of the Gospel

“The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” (Psalms 103:8 ESV)

Trinity Hymnal #654 “O Jesus, I Have Promised”

Confession of Faith — The Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended into hell. The third day he rose again from the dead. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty. From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.

Presentation of Gifts and Offering

Pastoral Prayer

The Proclamation of God’s Word

Galatians 2:11–14 (p. 973)

The Grace of Admonition

Rev. Ken Han

The Sacrament of The Lord’s Supper

We participate in the Lord’s Supper weekly. We welcome to the Lord’s Table all baptized believers who have sincere faith in Jesus Christ, and regularly worship in a Reformed or evangelical church.

The Lord’s Supper is a sign and a seal of the new covenant blessings. When we participate in the Lord’s Supper with faith, it strengthens our bond with our covenant Lord, Jesus Christ. Thus we participate properly when we come to our Savior with faith and repentance as we renew our resolve to forsake sin and live for his glory.

The Lord’s Supper also renews our bonds with God’s covenant community, the body of believers in the local church. As we receive the Lord’s Supper, we renew our pledge to give ourselves away in loving service.

During the distribution of the bread we will sing Trinity Hymnal #56 “When All Your Mercies, O My God” stanzas 1–3, and stanzas 4–6 during the distribution of the cup.

Trinity Hymnal #9 “All You That Fear Jehovah’s Name”

Benediction

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Growth Resources

Family Devotion for the Week

The October 22, 2017 sermon is posted to our church website here. You can also subscribe to sermon podcast here.

The Shorter Catechism lesson of the week is posted here: Q. 26..

We have some new resources for you at the information table, including several new CCEF mini books, as well as other edifying books. Be sure to check them out!

Upcoming Events and Notices

Every Lord’s Day 10:15 AM: Please join us for Hymnsing, a time of preparing our hearts for worship in praise, and for learning new hymns for worship.

October 29: The Children’s Bible First Catechism lessons will meet (Q. 63). The adult catechism class will resume following the conclusion of the “A Survey of Church History: 100–600” study series.

October 29: The Session will meet after the worship service.

October 29 (Lord’s Day 6 PM): This year marks the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther posting the 95 Theses, thus beginning the Protestant Reformation. Please join us at the Ligtenberg home as we celebrate with a lesson, food, and fellowship.

November 5 (Ligtenberg Home): We continue our Sunday study series, “A Survey of Church History: 100–600.” Each study will consist in watching a short video lesson taught by W. Robert Godfrey, with a discussion to follow. If you would like to host a meeting (need TV and DVD player), please let pastor Ken know. We will meet for a light potluck lunch before the study.

Nursery Volunteers

(Nursery meets in the Conference Room)

October 29: Michelle Kay

November 5: Yoori Han