For an explanation of the details of this liturgy, see “A Brief Walk-Through Our Liturgy.” This is based on John Calvin’s liturgy in the church in Strassbourg published in 1545. For a paper on the pattern of Biblical worship from “the Garden of Eden to the New Jerusalem,” see “The Heavenly Pattern of Worship” by Peter J. Wallace.
Entering into God’s Presence
Samaria Falling to the Assyrians by Don Lawrence, 1928-2003, (click to enlarge)
* Call to Worship Psalm 96:1-6
* Invocation Psalm 124:8
* God’s Greeting 2 Corinthians 1:1-2
* Opening Prayer
* Psalm of Praise Sing to the Lord, Sing His Praise (Psa 96) #187:1-4
Confession of Sin
Reading of the Law Colossians 3:1-10
Confession of Sin
Merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart and mind and strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. In your mercy forgive what we have been, help us amend what we are, and direct what we shall be, so that we may delight in your will and walk in your ways, to the glory of your holy name. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon Psalm 40:1-3
Response of Gratitude
Psalm of Thanksgiving I Waited for the Lord Most High (Psalm 40) #71:1, 2
* The Creed Heidelberg Catechism Lord’s Day 34
Offerings Psalm 40:6-8
Congregational Prayer
Service of the Word
Scripture Lessons 2 Kings 17:24-41 (text); Luke 10: 25-37 (text); John 4 (excerpts); HC LD 34
* Song of Preparation Now to God, Our Strength and Savior (Psa 81) #155:1, 3, 4, 8
Sermon: Samaritans, Bad and Good
1. False Worshippers of False Gods
2. True Worshippers of the One True God
3. The Good Who Redeems Us from Idolatry
Leaving to Serve
* Song of Consecration O Worship the King, All-Glorious Above #315:1-4
* Doxology Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow #493
* Benediction 2 Corinthians 13:14
* Amen! Three-Fold Amen
