Description
John 8:31-36
On this Reformation Sunday, we are reminded once again how we attain true life-changing freedom. Jesus makes it crystal clear by using the conjunction “if.” “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” He is telling them and us that in order to know the truth that will set them and us free, it means that we can do less than remain in the Word. The Greek word for remain is meno which equates to having a firm relationship with Jesus’ word. It means to abide in the word. We are set free from the bonds of sin and guilt by this word which gives us new life and propels us forward as disciples to share this good news in the world. Staying grounded in the scriptures will assure us of this freedom in Christ.
We Lift Our Hearts in Worship
[Preservice options include videos (countdowns, worship music, welcomes), worship music CD, or live music by worship band.]
Time of Praise and Worship
O Praise Him
David Crowder, ©2003 worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) sixsteps Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
Everlasting God
Brenton Brown & Ken Riley, ©2006 Thankyou Music
Dancing Generation
Matt Redman, ©2004 Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing)
[Traditional Options]
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God
BH 75 37; BH 91 8; CH 151; CHH 65; EH 687,688; ELW 503,504; HWC 26; HPW 18; HFG 118; HLC 11; HGP 10; HSP 31; LBW 228,229; LSB 656,6577; LW 296,297; NCH 439,440; PH 259,260; RH 17; STTL 30; WC 43; UMH 110; WAR 507; WHM 13; WIS 4
You Are The Way, To You Alone
ELW 758; LBW 464; LSB 526; LW 283; NCH 40
Lord Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word
ELW 517; LBW 230; LSB 655; LW 230
Invocation and Introduction of Today’s Theme
Pastor We are delighted to gather together in praise to God who has given us freedom through the life and atoning power of our Lord, Jesus Christ.
ALL Yes, the power of the Word made flesh has set us free!
Opening Prayer
Pastor God of truth, grace, and hope, it is such a joy to come into this place of worship with the assurance that we have been given a new and rich life through Jesus Christ. The spirit of the Reformation reminds us of change, cleansing and renewal. In Christ, we have the greatest source of hope the world has ever known. Give us enthusiasm to celebrate the vision and witness of great people of God such as Martin Luther who brought people back to the word. Give us the strength to remain in the word—knowing that this is the key to freedom as we move through life.
ALL In the name of the way, the truth, and the life—our Lord Jesus we pray. Amen
Time of Greeting
Time of Confession and Forgiveness
[Alternate location: following Message]
Pastor Gracious God, you chose to communicate with us through your word, yet we ignore its power and wisdom for living. We let our own way of handling life take precedence and realize that it doesn’t work and we suffer the consequences of our selfish actions and decisions. The reality is this: we are in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves. You sent Jesus to free us by taking all the sins of the world on the cross. Help us now to look within ourselves and confess those things that hurt our relationship with you as well as others.
(A time of personal reflection and confession)
All Father, we fully admit to you that we have fallen short in many areas of our lives and have not lived according to your will. We have not loved you with all of our heart and strength. We have not loved others as we love ourselves. We have allowed the world’s ways to take precedence over your ways. Often times we have not embraced the truth of your word and have suffered the consequences. We yearn for your forgiveness. Bring wisdom to our minds and soften our hearts so that we can receive your Word as truth and live by that truth.
Pastor We have peace in our lives knowing that God made a full payment for our sins. When we confess our sins and ask for forgiveness, the Lord keeps His promises and reconciles us through the blood of Jesus Christ. The Lord desires our freedom and wants us to be free from the shackles of our sin. You are forgiven! Thanks and praise to God!
ALL Amen!
[Alternate location: following Message]
We Hear God’s Word
[Read aloud both the introduction and Scripture]
First Reading Revelation 14:6-7
God’s final judgment will come and for those who believe, the judge of all the earth is also the Savior.
6 Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people. 7 He said in a loud voice, “Fear God and give him glory, because the hour of his judgment has come. Worship him who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.”
