For January 1, 2012

Worship Next Sunday

New Years Day, January 1, 2012

Preaching: Pastor Stephen Magee

Sermon text: Acts 9:1-2

Sermon title: “The Era of God With Us”

Music:

Opening – 4 All Praise to God, Who Reigns Above

Preparation – 75 O Father, You Are Sovereign

Response – 128 God Moves in a Mysterious Way

Closing – 32 Great is Thy Faithfulness

Confession of Faith: Apostles Creed

Old Testament Passage: Psalm 146

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 9:1-2

Tuesday: 1 Kings 11:1-22

Wednesday: 1 Kings 11:23-43

Thursday: Psalm 146

Friday: Matthew 22:37

Saturday: Acts 9

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 11

Lord God, we are so quickly led into traps of sin. Please help us. O Lord, we know that sin will quickly turn our hearts away from You. Guard our lives and protect us. Grant to us holy companions who will encourage us along the way of faith and righteousness. You have given the Kingdom to Your Son Jesus Christ. We are a part of that Kingdom and we are united to this great Son of David. May we stay near Him through Your Word. There are grave dangers everywhere, adversaries who stand against You and Your Anointed Messiah. We need strength and wisdom that is well beyond our abilities. Use us, O God, for the building of Your Kingdom. We desire to do good things for the progress of our brothers and sisters in the faith. You have a perfect knowledge of Your holy will. You shall not be denied. The gods of the nations are less than nothing. To follow them is to travel along the way that leads to destruction. Make Your Son to reign over a glorious Kingdom forever. We are weary, Lord. How can we keep on going? Carry us through this life, and take us home at just the right time.

Acts 9

Glorious Lord, You can take a man who is breathing threats against You and Your people and make him into a great servant of the Word. Blessed be Your Name. You help such a man to see the truth that he once condemned. The power of Your gospel changes men, softening proud hearts, and making them willing to suffer for the Name that they hated. Remove from our eyes any remaining spiritual blindness. Help us to see even more clearly that Jesus is Your Son. He is the only Messiah, and this is clearly shown through even the Old Testament Scriptures. Grant that our ministers would preach boldly among men who may be seeking to kill us. Grant us peace and joy in the comfort that comes from Your Truth and from the Holy Spirit. Make us know Your love for us so fully that we cannot help but be overflowing with good works. Remove far from us all ungodly hatred, self-centered distractions, and laziness. Take away all false excuses that we used in earlier days to reject so many great opportunities to serve You.

Isaiah 52

Father God, we praise You throughout our days on earth and even beyond this present age. Our hope is in You, Our Creator God, the Sustainer of all things. Your heart, O God, is perfect. Your will for Your people is wonderful. We need not fear man, or give in to foolish fears. You are the God of Your children forever and ever.

For December 25, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

Christmas Day, December 25, 2011

Preaching: Intern Nathan Snyder

Sermon text: Luke 2:8-20

Sermon title: “Peace has come to earth”

Music:

Opening – 199 See, amid the Winter's Snow

Preparation – 208 O Come, All Ye Faithful

Response – 218 Angels, from the Realms of Glory

Closing – 195 Joy to the World! The Lord Is Come

Confession of Faith: Heidelberg Catechism

Old Testament Passage: Isaiah 52:7-10

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Luke 2:1-20

Tuesday: 1 Kings 10:1-13

Wednesday: 1 Kings 10:14-29

Thursday: Isaiah 52:7-10

Friday: Luke 9:23-26

Saturday: Luke 2

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 10

O Lord God, why do people not see the greatness of Your Son, our King? Why is our breath not taken away from us day by day as we hear of the wisdom and power of Jesus Christ? Surely it is because of Your great love that You have sent us Your Son. You own all things as the Creator and Provider. Grant us what we need for our daily sustenance that we might serve you well. Bless us with the beauty of true holiness. Your majesty is known in the glory of sanctification, for we are living stones in a great temple. Place into our minds a vision of the grandeur of Your kingdom, that we might ask for and receive great things. Your Son and His perfected church are far beyond the glory of the kingdom of Solomon. Will we not have eyes to see? We do believe. Help our unbelief.

Luke 2

Father God, in the fullness of time You sent forth Your Son. This best child of Bethlehem is our King. Fully God and fully man, Your Son is Christ the Lord. Born in a lowly manger, He came for Your glory and for our salvation. Thank You for Your mercy to us through Him. We treasure the truth of Jesus Christ in our hearts. Help us to obey Him with our lives. Lord, we are so easily distracted by lesser things. Keep our eyes upon this Jesus. Help us to see the meaning and importance of our days as we see Your salvation in Jesus Christ. Shine forth the light of Christ throughout the earth, that many will come to see the truth of His life, death, and resurrection. We praise You, O God, for You have sent us the One who is our redemption. He is our strong King. Throughout His life He attended to all of Your commandments. He alone has loved You with all of His being. He knew You as Father with perfect wisdom and obedience. He is our Hope.

Isaiah 52

Come in strength, O God, in the garments of Your power. We were sold for nothing, but we have been redeemed through the precious blood of the Lamb. Speak in the voice of Your gospel herald soon. Let the weary come again to Zion, that we might sing to our God. Your arm is strong. Show us Your salvation. Release us from the filthy chains of wickedness and be our God. Thank You for Your amazing Servant. He is our strength.

For December 18, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

December 18, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Psalm 46:8-11

Sermon title: “In God We Trust” Part 3 of 3

Music:

Opening – 196 Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus

Preparation – 398 Christ, Whose Glory Fills the Skies

Response – 203 Hark the Herald Angels Sing

Closing – 345 Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken

Confession of Faith: Nicene Creed

New Testament Passage: Luke 1:68-79

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Psalm 46

Tuesday: 1 Kings 9:1-9

Wednesday: 1 Kings 9:10-28

Thursday: Luke 1:68-70

Friday: Exodus 20:17

Saturday: Psalm 46

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 8

Sovereign Lord, You hear the prayers of Your Son. We thank You. He has walked in perfect integrity and righteousness. His throne is established forever. Surely we have sinned, and turned aside from the right way. Where would we be without Your grace? Do not turn Your church into a house of ruins. For the glory of Your Name, have great mercy upon all those who call upon You in covenant assembly. Grant that we will be able to live in peace among the people with whom we dwell here below. May Your church be a blessing to others in accord with Your will. May Your kingdom shine as a city on a hill. Grant that many who are enslaved in the chains of sin will find new freedom in Christ. Help us to speak the truth in love, to expose what is evil, and to show forth the way of divine mercy.

Luke 1

Glorious God, we thank You for the good news of Your Son, Jesus Christ. You are a God of order, and You have set out for us the story of Your Son in a way that is clear and wonderful. At just the right time You sent angels and prophets, raised up nations and brought about events, that we might be prepared for the coming of our Redeemer. You sent John the Baptist to Zechariah and Elizabeth. The word of his coming was given through the angel Gabriel. John’s father saw a vision, and he was unable to speak until the coming of this forerunner. Even more than the miracle of John’s birth, this same angel informed Mary of an event more magnificent than the coming of John. She conceived a Son who would be Your own Son. This Jesus would reign forever and ever, and would be born to a virgin by the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You for the blessing of the gift of Your Son. Nothing is impossible with You, O Lord. We are Your servants. Let it be to us according to Your holy Word. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit and speak wonderful words of truth throughout our days on earth. We believe Your Word, which shall be fulfilled in due season. Look upon our humble estate and do great things for us according to Your strength and Your promise. You bring the high low, and the low You make high by Your grace. You have fulfilled the promise to Abraham in the gift of Jesus Christ. As John was given that the people might be prepared for a yet more glorious gift, the coming of Your Son means grace upon grace for us and a gift beyond all other gifts. We hear the Word that You have spoken and we wonder about all the marvelous things You have for us. We will be saved from our enemies through Your covenant mercies granted to Your children. May we serve Your Son in holiness and righteousness all our days. Forgive our sins moment by moment, and grant us light, that we might walk in the way of peace.

Psalm 46

Strong Deliverer, You are the Help of Your people every day and through every time of trouble. There is a great river of Your Spirit coming to us out of Your heavenly sanctuary. You have made us glad. You have defended us in times of trouble. You will glorify Your Name in us, for You are the mighty fortress of Your church, and we are Your people.

For December 11, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

December 11, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Psalm 46:4-7

Sermon title: “In God We Trust” Part 2 of 3

Music:

Opening – 194 O Come, O Come, Emmanuel

Preparation – 213 What Child Is This

Response – 647 How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds

Closing – 198 Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates!

Confession of Faith: Apostles Creed

New Testament Passage: Luke 1:39-56

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Psalm 46

Tuesday: 1 Kings 8:1-30

Wednesday: 1 Kings 8:31-66

Thursday: Luke 1:39-56

Friday: Exodus 20:16

Saturday: Psalm 46

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 8

Our Father in Heaven, we long to be with You, and to know that You are with us. We thank You that You have granted to us a way that we might know You and worship You. Your Son Jesus Christ is the Way. Fill us with Your presence. Fill Your temple with Your glory. We would be so easily distracted by foolish endeavors and meaningless entertainments. When we are taken away from considerations of You and Your will, how can we serve You? Your Son is building a great assembly of worshippers. He is forever upon the throne according to Your promise. We thank You for His great ascension work in the building of Your kingdom. May Your Name be held in high regard forever. Father, forgive us for our sins. Look upon us and have mercy. When we wander far away from You and discover our foolishness, forgive us and bring us home again. When we face danger from any trouble within us or outside us, hear us and help us. You know our weakness, O God. Please help us. Come swiftly to the aid of all those who would call upon Your name, and draw them to Your Son and to His church. Grant us the gift of repentance and bring us home again to You. Hear our prayer and our plea. We need You, O Lord. We have a sense of the imperfection of our entreaties. We do not know how to pray. Have mercy upon us. May Your Son perfect our prayers. In all our requests, we plead the blood of the perfect sacrifice, Jesus, the Lamb. We bless Your Name forever.

Luke 1

Glorious God, we thank You for the good news of Your Son, Jesus Christ. You are a God of order, and You have set out for us the story of Your Son in a way that is clear and wonderful. At just the right time You sent angels and prophets, raised up nations and brought about events, that we might be prepared for the coming of our Redeemer. You sent John the Baptist to Zechariah and Elizabeth. The word of his coming was given through the angel Gabriel. John’s father saw a vision, and he was unable to speak until the coming of this forerunner. Even more than the miracle of John’s birth, this same angel informed Mary of an event more magnificent than the coming of John. She conceived a Son who would be Your own Son. This Jesus would reign forever and ever, and would be born to a virgin by the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You for the blessing of the gift of Your Son. Nothing is impossible with You, O Lord. We are Your servants. Let it be to us according to Your holy Word. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit and speak wonderful words of truth throughout our days on earth. We believe Your Word, which shall be fulfilled in due season. Look upon our humble estate and do great things for us according to Your strength and Your promise. You bring the high low, and the low You make high by Your grace. You have fulfilled the promise to Abraham in the gift of Jesus Christ. As John was given that the people might be prepared for a yet more glorious gift, the coming of Your Son means grace upon grace for us and a gift beyond all other gifts. We hear the Word that You have spoken and we wonder about all the marvelous things You have for us. We will be saved from our enemies through Your covenant mercies granted to Your children. May we serve Your Son in holiness and righteousness all our days. Forgive our sins moment by moment, and grant us light, that we might walk in the way of peace.

Psalm 46

Strong Deliverer, You are the Help of Your people every day and through every time of trouble. There is a great river of Your Spirit coming to us out of Your heavenly sanctuary. You have made us glad. You have defended us in times of trouble. You will glorify Your Name in us, for You are the mighty fortress of Your church, and we are Your people.

For December 4, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

December 4, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Psalm 46:1-3

Sermon title: “In God We Trust” Part 1 of 3

Music:

Opening – 195 Joy to the World! The Lord Is Come

Preparation – 193 Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence

Response – 221 Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming

Closing – 598 Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Confession of Faith: Heidelberg Catechism

New Testament Passage: Luke 1:26-38

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Psalm 46

Tuesday: 1 Kings 7:1-22

Wednesday: 1 Kings 7:23-51

Thursday: Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Friday: Exodus 20:15

Saturday: Psalm 46

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 7

Great God, where do You dwell? Where is Your house? No one can contain You, yet You inhabit the praise of Your people. We long for heaven, for You are there, yet You are everywhere. We cannot see You, and we easily forget You. Forgive us. Fill us with wisdom and understanding. Grant to us spiritual skill for the beauty of Your Kingdom. Thank You for the gifts that You have given to Your people. There is much beauty, order, and goodness throughout the earth. What must heaven be like, since it is surely superior to what we know and understand? Yet, there is some great purpose to the current creation, and we marvel at the magnificence and order of what we are permitted to observe. We long for You. We seek the complete removal of all sin. We wait for a permanent end to all disappointment and misery. Grant us joy as we see the beauty of the earth, the skies, and the seas. Give to us a great appreciation for the achievements that You have brought through the work and wisdom of men. Above all of Your creatures, blessed be Your Name, O Lord.

Luke 1

Glorious God, we thank You for the good news of Your Son, Jesus Christ. You are a God of order, and You have set out for us the story of Your Son in a way that is clear and wonderful. At just the right time You sent angels and prophets, raised up nations and brought about events, that we might be prepared for the coming of our Redeemer. You sent John the Baptist to Zechariah and Elizabeth. The word of his coming was given through the angel Gabriel. John’s father saw a vision, and he was unable to speak until the coming of this forerunner. Even more than the miracle of John’s birth, this same angel informed Mary of an event more magnificent than the coming of John. She conceived a Son who would be Your own Son. This Jesus would reign forever and ever, and would be born to a virgin by the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank You for the blessing of the gift of Your Son. Nothing is impossible with You, O Lord. We are Your servants. Let it be to us according to Your holy Word. May we be filled with the Holy Spirit and speak wonderful words of truth throughout our days on earth. We believe Your Word, which shall be fulfilled in due season. Look upon our humble estate and do great things for us according to Your strength and Your promise. You bring the high low, and the low You make high by Your grace. You have fulfilled the promise to Abraham in the gift of Jesus Christ. As John was given that the people might be prepared for a yet more glorious gift, the coming of Your Son means grace upon grace for us and a gift beyond all other gifts. We hear the Word that You have spoken and we wonder about all the marvelous things You have for us. We will be saved from our enemies through Your covenant mercies granted to Your children. May we serve Your Son in holiness and righteousness all our days. Forgive our sins moment by moment, and grant us light, that we might walk in the way of peace.

Psalm 46

Strong Deliverer, You are the Help of Your people every day and through every time of trouble. There is a great river of Your Spirit coming to us out of Your heavenly sanctuary. You have made us glad. You have defended us in times of trouble. You will glorify Your Name in us, for You are the mighty fortress of Your church, and we are Your people.

For November 27, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

November 27, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:26-40

Sermon title: “The Good News About Jesus”

Music:

Opening – 80 Lord, with Glowing Heart I'd Praise Thee

Preparation – 165 Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim

Response – 521 My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less

Closing – 455 And Can It Be That I Should Gain

Confession of Faith: Apostles Creed

OT Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:26-40

Tuesday: 1 Kings 6:1-13

Wednesday: 1 Kings 6:14-38

Thursday: Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Friday: Exodus 20:14

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 6

Lord God, the work of building Your house requires much vision, wisdom, and obedience. Your resurrected and ascended Son is leading us in this important mission. Help us to keep His statutes, that we might be effective in worship and service for You. We now have access to the Most Holy Place in heaven through the blood of Christ. Your dwelling place with men is more precious than gold. What a creation is man, made in Your image! How much more wonderful is Your work of redemption, for we are now new creatures in Christ! Thank You for Your holy angels, created to be servants to the heirs of salvation. We long to see the gates of heaven. We know that Christ is the foundation of Your great house. We hear His holy voice through the witness of apostles and prophets.

Isaiah 53

O Lord, so many have ignored the truth of Your grace. So many were offended by the lowliness of our holy King. How is it that men would dare to despise Jesus, who was wounded for our transgressions? Thank You for this great truth: that the Shepherd died for the sheep. The One who was oppressed and afflicted in silence, now lives forever in the strength of resurrection power. When He is seen again, every knee shall bow before Him who was an offering for sin. He has justified many by His knowledge. He has carried our guilt. Through the strength of His death, and through His intercession for us, we have been saved.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For November 20, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

November 20, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:26-40

Sermon title: “The Good News About Jesus”

Music:

Opening – 9 All You That Fear Jehovah's Name

Preparation – 162 Of the Father's Love Begotten

Response – 420 At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing

Closing – Psalm 46 - 2^nd Version

Confession of Faith: Apostles Creed

OT Reading: Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:26-40

Tuesday: 1 Kings 5:1-7

Wednesday: 1 Kings 5:8-18

Thursday: Isaiah 52:13-53:12

Friday: Exodus 20:13

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 5

Almighty Father, You are building Your great temple through Jesus Christ. You have made us living stones in Your house. He is the great Cornerstone, rejected by men, but precious in Your sight. With the greatest patience and wisdom He is building us up to be a dwelling place for Your Spirit. Grant us enthusiasm and faithfulness as we do our part in this great work, that Your Kingdom may be established according to Your glorious plan.

Isaiah 53

O Lord, so many have ignored the truth of Your grace. So many were offended by the lowliness of our holy King. How is it that men would dare to despise Jesus, who was wounded for our transgressions? Thank You for this great truth: that the Shepherd died for the sheep. The One who was oppressed and afflicted in silence, now lives forever in the strength of resurrection power. When He is seen again, every knee shall bow before Him who was an offering for sin. He has justified many by His knowledge. He has carried our guilt. Through the strength of His death, and through His intercession for us, we have been saved.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For November 13, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

November 13, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:25

Sermon title: “Preaching the Gospel to Many Villages”

Music:

Opening – 117 The Spacious Firmament on High

Preparation – Psalm 126

Response – 520 Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness

Closing – White 3 Heaven's Gift

Confession of Faith: Heidelberg Catechism

OT Reading: Isaiah 54:1-3

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:25

Tuesday: 1 Kings 4:1-19

Wednesday: 1 Kings 4:20-34

Thursday: Isaiah 54:1-3

Friday: Exodus 20:8-11

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 4

Lord God, You have provided a system of order for Your Kingdom. We are thankful for the kind provision of leaders who pursue the orderly and blessed functioning of Your church. Please make the men who serve in this way wise and courageous. May they be honest men who understand the times. Help them to shine as lights in a dark world. Provide everything that they need for the job that You have given to Your church. We are to make disciples of all nations, and to train up Your church in holiness and love. Please provide all the resources necessary in order that these good goals will be accomplished. Thank you for all the excellent knowledge, skill, beauty, and wisdom that comes to Your servants through Your Son.

Isaiah 54

Lord of the Harvest, You are bringing forth children for the desolate woman. We are the descendants that You have made for the glory of Your Holy Servant, Jesus. He is the Lord of Hosts and our Husband. Your people were cast off in their sin, but now they are being brought back home in Your divine compassion. Your steadfast promise is fulfilled in the One who is both just and justifier. Therefore we rejoice in You and in the covenant of peace with which You have made us glad. We are precious stones now in Your holy temple. The day without fear will soon come in all perfection, and we will be changed from glory to glory. Even today, no weapon fashioned against us will prosper.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For November 6, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

November 6, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:25

Sermon title: “Preaching the Gospel to Many Villages”

Music:

Opening – 117 The Spacious Firmament on High

Preparation – Psalm 126

Response – 520 Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness

Closing – White 3 Heaven's Gift

Confession of Faith: Heidelberg Catechism

OT Reading: Isaiah 54:1-3

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:25

Tuesday: 1 Kings 4:1-19

Wednesday: 1 Kings 4:20-34

Thursday: Isaiah 54:1-3

Friday: Exodus 20:8-11

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 4

Lord God, You have provided a system of order for Your Kingdom. We are thankful for the kind provision of leaders who pursue the orderly and blessed functioning of Your church. Please make the men who serve in this way wise and courageous. May they be honest men who understand the times. Help them to shine as lights in a dark world. Provide everything that they need for the job that You have given to Your church. We are to make disciples of all nations, and to train up Your church in holiness and love. Please provide all the resources necessary in order that these good goals will be accomplished. Thank you for all the excellent knowledge, skill, beauty, and wisdom that comes to Your servants through Your Son.

Isaiah 54

Lord of the Harvest, You are bringing forth children for the desolate woman. We are the descendants that You have made for the glory of Your Holy Servant, Jesus. He is the Lord of Hosts and our Husband. Your people were cast off in their sin, but now they are being brought back home in Your divine compassion. Your steadfast promise is fulfilled in the One who is both just and justifier. Therefore we rejoice in You and in the covenant of peace with which You have made us glad. We are precious stones now in Your holy temple. The day without fear will soon come in all perfection, and we will be changed from glory to glory. Even today, no weapon fashioned against us will prosper.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For October 30, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

October 30, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:18-24

Sermon title: “Pray for me to the Lord ...”

Music:

Opening – 97 We Praise You, O God, Our Redeemer, Creator

Preparation – Psalm 122

Response – White 7 Come to the Waters

Closing – 706 Jesus Lives, and So Shall I

Confession of Faith: Nicene Creed

OT Reading: Jeremiah 31:31-34

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:18-24

Tuesday: 1 Kings 3:1-15

Wednesday: 1 Kings 3:16-28

Thursday: Jeremiah 31:31-34

Friday: Exodus 20:7

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 3

Great God, You have granted to us so many blessings. Your Son is the husband of Your church. What more can we possibly ask of You? He is full of righteousness and wisdom, and He will be our King forever. Grant us the privilege of being like Him. We would desire to have the blessing of an understanding mind, that we might serve You well. We thank You for the measure of riches and honor that You have chosen to give to us, but Your gift of wisdom would be far better than these other kind provisions. Surely You will help us in the daily struggles that come before us. You will give us insight so that we will make wise choices. Make our hearts yearn for Your blessing upon the weak who come to us for help in a day of desperate need.

Jeremiah 31

Sovereign Lord, Your plan shall surely be accomplished. Your church shall be perfectly adorned with the righteousness of Christ. You bring forth shouts of joy from the voices of Your people. You will bring us to the place of Your presence. You will gather Your flock and give to Your people a New Covenant. Built on the Rock, which is Christ, Your church will be blessed according to Your promise. Restore us again, O God. Let us not be put to shame. We will return to You from the land of unbelief. We will follow our great Redeemer. The answer for us has come in the child of a woman. He watches over us for our good. Build and plant, O Lord, for Your ways are marvelous. We have broken Your Law, but Your Son has obeyed every commandment. We look with joyful expectation to the coming day when we shall no longer disobey Your commandments. Your love for us is both strong and sure. Your Kingdom will be built up, and Your Son shall reign forever.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For October 23, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

October 23, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:14-17

Sermon title: “The Word, Christian Baptism, and the Holy Spirit”

Music:

Opening – 3 Give to Our God Immortal Praise

Preparation – 437 O God, to Us Show Mercy

Response – 474 Blow Ye the Trumpet, Blow!

Close – 498 Jesus! What a Friend for Sinners!

Confession of Faith: Apostles Creed

OT Reading: Numbers 27:12-23, Deuteronomy 34:9-12

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:14-17

Tuesday: 1 Kings 2:1-25

Wednesday: 1 Kings 2:26-46

Thursday: Numbers 27:12-23, Deuteronomy 34:9-12

Friday: Exodus 20:4-6

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 2

Lord, how is it that You work Your justice throughout the earth? One man rises and another falls. One man is given more life by Your mercy, yet the day comes when old transgressions catch up with him, and a taste of Your justice is felt at the day of his death. Bloodshed is all around us, and we cannot sort out all the misery and sin that we see across the years of our lives. There are those who will attempt to accomplish their own plans with intrigue and lies. They worm their way into the homes of the righteous and cause difficulties as they seek a weak ear and an unsuspecting ally. If you were not our help, how could we live? There is much trouble all around us. Please do not take away Your mercy from us. We hate our foolish past and we turn to You as those who know the hope that is securely ours in Your Son. We have heard the truth about the way of life that You have for Your children, and we acknowledge that it is good. Give us the strength to resist evil, lest we die in disgrace. You have fully established Your kingdom in the hands of Your Son. We thank You for the peace that we enjoy in His service.

Deuteronomy 34

Glorious God Almighty, the day of each man’s death approaches. Beyond this day is the coming of all of Your good decrees for life. Grant us a glimpse each day of the age to come. In light of that new vision, teach us to live in the sure hope of the coming age. Fill us with Your heavenly Spirit, and use us for Your good purposes even in the land where we now live. We thank You for Your holy Law that came through Moses. Even more than this, we thank You that grace and truth have come to us through Your Son Jesus Christ.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For October 16, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

October 16, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:9-13

Sermon title: “The Astounding Power of God”

Music:

Opening – 53 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty

Preparation – 172 Let Us Love and Sing and Wonder

Response – 169 My Heard Does Overflow

Closing – 699 Like a River Glorious

Confession of Faith: Heidelberg Catechism

OT Reading: Psalm 29

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8:9-13

Tuesday: 1 Kings 1:1-27

Wednesday: 1 Kings 1:28-53

Thursday: Psalm 29

Friday: Exodus 20:1-3

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

1 Kings 1

Glorious God, we live and die at Your command. You know us when we are young, and You know us when we are old. The day comes when we step aside from our duties of responsibility, and the next generation takes our place. We come and go, but Your Son is forever King over the church. Here below, an Adonijah may attempt to make himself something, and he may even seem to succeed for a time. Despite the proud plans of men, You make a man rise or fall. You promised that Solomon would be king instead of Adonijah. Your Word cannot be broken. As we live among ambitious and treacherous men, we feel the danger of ruthless arrogance all around us. Despite these fears, You surely reign, and You will accomplish Your great will. Grant to us faith in You every day. We put aside our needless anxiety, and trust in You. Comfort our hearts as You teach us to trust in Your Word. May we serve You without doubt and fear all the days of our lives. We have been found in Your Son. Why should we live as orphans when we have such a good heritage in Your Son Jesus Christ? His throne is great and His Name is glorious. Thank You for our secure relation to You in the life and death of Your Son. Though we die, yet we only sleep in Jesus Christ. He will call our bodies forth from the grave. We live now in this most excellent hope.

Psalm 29

Lord of Hosts, all worship of men and angels is due to You, for You alone are God. Your voice is fearful and wonderful, like glorious thunder from the heavens. Blessed be Your Name, O great King. We hear Your Word of peace, and are greatly blessed.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.

For October 9, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

October 9, 2011

Preaching: Intern Nathan Snyder

Sermon text: Psalm 100

Sermon title: “”

Music:

Opening – 1 All People That on Earth Do Dwell

Preparation – 163 At the Name of Jesus

Response – 170 Fairest Lord Jesus

Closing – 296 All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name!

Confession of Faith: Nicene Creed

NT Reading: Philippians 4:4-9

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Psalm 100

Tuesday: 2 Samuel 24:1-14

Wednesday: 2 Samuel 24:15-25

Thursday: Philippians 4:4-9

Friday: Matthew 22:39

Saturday: Psalm 100

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

2 Samuel 24

Father God, we are so weak, and we would easily fail and fall at any test. Surely we need Your strength if we are to resist evil. We are so full of pride. We do what we do because of our own desires. Transform our hearts into something better and purer, that we might have holier desires. Your heart is perfect. Make us to love what You love, and to pursue these better desires with all the power and faith that comes from You. We would bring great trouble upon our lives and upon others all around us through our lust for power, fame, or pleasure. We need an atoning sacrifice for our wickedness. Your hand came against a Son of David, the Lord Jesus Christ, who was the Lamb of God for us. Through His perfect desires and His astounding love, a plague of death has been taken away from us. Through His own life and death, He has accomplished what could never have come to us through the death of bulls or goats. Though we can pay nothing for our salvation, the cost to You has been measured out in the blood of Your Son. Thank You for Your mercy, for Your justice has been satisfied at a great cost, and we have been redeemed.

Psalm 100

Father, the duty of worship is not only for Israel. All Your people throughout the earth should love and serve You. We thank You for Your steadfast love, secured for us in the life and death of Your Son.

Philippians 4

Our God and King, take away from our hearts unproductive and vicious thoughts that are out of accord with godliness. Take away our foolish anxieties, and help us to rejoice in You always. Keep our minds on You and on Your great works of creation, providence, and redemption. Fill us with peace as we fill our minds with the glorious wonders of Your greatness and beauty. Thank You for those You have given to us as companions and partners in the way of faith and life. We have confidence in You, for You will not abandon us. You will supply our every need, according to the abundance of Your grace for all of Your children.

For October 2, 2011

Worship Next Sunday

October 2, 2011

Preaching: Pastor Magee

Sermon text: Acts 8:5-8

Sermon title: “A Proclamation that Brings Much Joy to a City”

Music:

Opening – 97 We Praise You, O God, Our Redeemer, Creator

Preparation – 164 O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing

Response – 646 Jesus Thou Joy of Loving Hearts

Closing – 455 And Can It Be That I Should Gain

Confession of Faith: Apostles Creed

OT Reading: Psalm 48

Preparation Guide

Sunday: Review morning sermon (evening service @ 5pm)

Monday: Acts 8

Tuesday: 2 Samuel 23:1-7

Wednesday: 2 Samuel 23:8-39

Thursday: Psalm 48

Friday: Matthew 22:37

Saturday: Acts 8

Suggested Bible Study and Prayers

(Passages that we will refer to in next Sunday's worship)

2 Samuel 23

Glorious Lord, You have granted to us the Word of Your Anointed, the Lord Jesus Christ. He has given us good news and has filled us with Your Holy Spirit. He is our great Ruler and King. He is the Seed of the Woman, who has crushed the head of the serpent. In our Redeemer, we have been made as mighty men, for even the devil is to be crushed under our feet. You have granted to Your servants water from the well of eternal life. At the cost of Your Son’s blood, You have given us a spring of water that gushes up forever, a refreshing help for weary sinners. O Father, we long for the fulfillment of Your Son’s Kingdom. There remain enemies all around us, and we are weak and weary in our duties. Even when we read Your Word and worship You we feel the challenge of our flesh and our sin. Deliver us forever from this body of death, and bring us into a land of abiding strength.

Psalm 48

Lord of heaven and earth, we look to Your great sanctuary in glory and we are astonished. Your Word teaches us about the place of our citizenship in that heavenly Jerusalem. We are deeply impressed. Our expectation of the life to come is a matter of great joy for our souls. We will pass on this good news to the coming generation, and will speak of You throughout all the nations of men.

Acts 8

Sovereign Lord, You have promised that Your truth would not be stopped in Jerusalem, but that it would be heard in all Judea, Samaria, and to the very ends of the earth. As that Word moved forward through Your apostles, many believed, even among those who had formerly been committed to pagan practices. So many in every age are dedicated to the worship of money, or think that they can buy Your gifts. You will bring Your Word even to men such as this. You will open the minds of distant tribes and people groups through Your great power. The faith that comes to one man can eventually touch many more who were once securely bound in the slavery of idolatry. Grant to all Your people the joy of new life, as Your servants are baptized into a community of living hope.