September 20, 2026

You can find the order of worship and songs here.

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This Lord's Day we come to a most joyful passage. We began our study of John's gospel on September 15, 2024, with John 1:1. Now, almost exactly 2 years later we have come to John 20. Our Lord Jesus suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. And on the third day he rose again from the dead. It seems fitting, therefore, to prepare for this Lord's Day worship by meditating on Psalm 22.

Our Lord Jesus himself meditated on Psalm 22 as he suffered and died on the cross. His words "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" are taken directly from Psalm 22:1. Psalm 22 continues "they have pierced my hands and feet — I can count all my bones — they stare and gloat over me; they divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots." We recognize these things were fulfilled in Jesus' passion.

But, just as importantly, and most critically, Psalm 22 also speaks of the joys of our sin and death conquering Lord. "I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you: You who fear the LORD, praise him! and stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel! … From you comes my praise in the great congregation; my vows I will perform before those who fear him." Historically, Reformed churches have been reluctant to call their musicians "worship leaders." In so far as the church's worship falls under the purview of her appointed leaders, her pastor and elders more accurately fill the role of the worship leader. Yet even that is only a part of the story and we must make some important qualifications. Why? Psalm 22 teaches us that the Lord Jesus himself sings and leads the congregation in worship of God. That is, our Lord Jesus, befitting his office as the eternal high priest, is the worship leader of our church and every other true church.

What does this mean? When we gather to worship, we come into the presence of our risen Lord Jesus! How awesome is this realization! Come into his presence and adore him. Let him lead you into the presence of the Father by the power of his Spirit.

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Growth Resources

In September we are reading "The Juvenilization of American Christianity" by Thomas Bergler. See also 12 for 26.

Announcements

September 23 (Wednesday 6 PM): Daniel Zoom study begins. Meeting ID: 820 0070 3059. Passcode: 999522

September 27: Sunday School resumes.

Thank you for your continued support of Grace Fallbrook (PCA). Your loving support makes the proclamation of the gospel and the building up of the saints possible. Please visit gracefallbrook.church/give and click on "Give Online Now." You will be directed to the PCA Foundation where you can give towards Grace Fallbrook (PCA).

This Week's Prayers

Please email your prayer request by Thursday to include it in the list for the upcoming week — info@gracefallbrook.church