Corporate worship is a great thing. Of course, we can worship God on our own and with our families - and we should. But there is something special about the people of God coming together for worship (Hebrews 10:24-25). Thus, we hope that corporate worship is the highlight of your week. In an effort to help you get more out of worship, we're posting a short preview of the upcoming worship service each week. Hopefully you'll find this helpful and encouraging.
This week we continue in our series from the Gospel of Mark. The teaching will be based on Mark 10:35-45. To prepare for worship, read this passage and think about the way you conceive of what it means to be great. How does this passage challenge or confirm your view of greatness? Also think about what this passage has to say about the mission of Jesus.
During worship, we'll use the words of the Apostles' Creed to affirm our faith together. This ancient creed has been used by the church to sum up "mere Christianity" - what Christians have always believed across geographic, socio-economic, racial, and denominational lines. In a world that often doesn't know what to believe, it's good to confess what we do believe.
We'll also be retelling the story of salvation in our music. Below are the lyrics to one of the songs we'll sing Sunday. Make these words into a prayer for your life and our church.
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride
See from his head, his hands, his feet
Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did ever such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live
O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross
All who gather here by grace draw near and bless Your name
Were the whole realm of nature mine
That were an offering far too small
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all