The Gathered Church

Prepare to Praise

"Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire." Hebrews 12:28-29

Prayer for the Gathering: Proper 25 from the Book of Common Prayer

Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Reflection: New City Catechism Question 52

Q: What hope does everlasting life hold for us?

A: It reminds us that this present fallen world is not all there is; soon we will live with and enjoy God forever in the new city, in the new heaven and the new earth, where we will be full and forever freed from all sin and will inhabit renewed, resurrection bodies in a renewed, restored creation.

Call to Worship: Matthew 11:28-29

[28] Come unto me, all you that labor an are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest.

Worship in Song

Worship Set for 10/29/2023

Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing | Praise to the Lord, the Almighty

The Word Preached: 1 Peter 4:7-11

End-Time Ethics

[7] The end of all things is near; therefore, be alert and sober-minded for prayer. [8] Above all, maintain constant love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins. [9] Be hospitable to one another without complaining. [10] Just as each one has received a gift, use it to serve others, as good stewards of the varied grace of God. [11] If anyone speaks, let it be as one who speaks God’s words; if anyone serves, let it be from the strength God provides, so that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ in everything. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.

Response to the Word Preached

Song: Come, Behold the Wondrous Mystery