Description
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Jesus shared the Parable of the Wheat and Weeds explaining that enemies of the Kingdom as well as sons and daughters will coexist until the end of the age. In our current day and age, we often witness division amongst us everywhere we turn in poverty and wealth, racial segregation, Republicans and Democrats, and even within families. We must recognize that duty of the good wheat is to continue being led by the Spirit in righteousness, peace, joy, and love.
We Lift Our Hearts in Worship
[Preservice options include video countdowns, worship song videos, welcomes), CDs, or live music.]
Welcome & Time of Greeting
Time of Praise and Worship
Holy Spirit
Bryan Torwalt & Katie Torwalt © 2011 Capitol CMG Genesis (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)
Jesus Culture Music (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)
Day After Day
Tim Hughes, ©2001 Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
Holy Is The Lord
Chris Tomlin & Louie Giglio, ©2003 Worshiptogether.Com Songs/Sixsteps Music
[Traditional Options]
O Holy Spirit, Enter In
ELW 786; LBW 459; LSB 913; LW 160
God Himself is Present
LBW 249; LSB 907; LW 206; NCH 68
How Can I Thank You Lord
LSB 703; LW 385
Invocation
Pastor / Worship Leader
Welcome newcomers and existing family. We are here to worship the Lord together, to soak in His presence, and to be strengthened as the body of Christ to live according to the will of His Spirit.
Worshipers
We are here for You, Lord, in one accord.
Opening Prayer / Theme Introduction
Pastor / Worship Leader
May You, Lord, lead us by the Spirit into Your holy presence. We ask that You’d help us to leave behind our own ways and take up our crosses and follow You wholeheartedly. We want to worship You in Spirit and in truth. We reject plain lip service and invite You into this time and place with us now. In Christ’s name we pray.
Worshipers
Amen.
Time of Confession and Forgiveness
[Alternate location: following Message]
Pastor / Worship Leader
There is a real enemy working in the darkness to bring down the saints. But I’ve got some great news!
Worshipers
Tell us- what’s the good news?
Pastor / Worship Leader
Our God is greater and has defeated the enemy! We must repent of our ways, seek God’s face, and allow Him into our lives to bring us healing and restoration.
Worshipers
We repent of our fleshly ways where we are drawn to division and disunity. Forgive us for participating in gossip, division, hatred, and strife. When we should be loving and harmonious, we’ve chosen the opposite path. Spirit lead us into righteousness.
Pastor / Worship Leader
Yes, Lord, lead us into the way that is right. You are good, and we want to follow You. Thank You for Your kindness in forgiving us, Lord. Amen.
We Hear God’s Word
[Read aloud both the introduction and Scripture]
First Reading Isaiah 44:6-8
The Lord is matchless. There is no one like Him nor will there ever be anyone who can compare to our God in all eternity. He is our Mighty Rock, our King and Redeemer, and the Alpha and Omega.
“This is what the Lord says—Israel’s King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God. 7 Who then is like me? Let him proclaim it. Let him declare and lay out before me what has happened since I established my ancient people, and what is yet to come—yes, let them foretell what will come. 8 Do not tremble, do not be afraid. Did I not proclaim this and foretell it long ago? You are my witnesses. Is there any God besides me? No, there is no other Rock; I know not one.”
