Preparing to Worship on Sunday, July 20, 2014

Sermon: "Who Is Able to Stand?"

The preaching passage: 1 Samuel 4:1-7:17

This Sunday we'll continue our journey through 1 & 2 Samuel, looking at defeat of Israel under Eli and their return to God under Samuel. These books trace the rise of kingship in Israel, beginning with Saul and transitioning to Israel's greatest king, David. The story is fraught with ups and downs for the nation, as well as  spectacular displays of righteousness and spectacular forays into sin by the kings themselves. All along, the kingship in Israel directs our gaze to the coming King, who is no mere human king, but is Himself the divine King! The cry of Israel in 1 Samuel 10:24 – "Long live the king!" – was far more significant than they knew. For 2 Samuel 7 tells us of the King who would eventually come, whose throne and Kingdom would be established forever. We know that King to be none other than Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns forever. So with Israel we cry, "Long live the King!"

Songs we'll sing together include:

“Our God” by Myrin, Redman, Reeves, & Tomlin

“A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” by Luther

“10,000 Reasons to Bless the Lord” by Myrin & Redman

“Come Thou Fount” by Robinson & Wyeth

“All I Have Is Christ” by Kauflin

See you Sunday!