SUNDAY GATHERING (23rd August 2020)

PILGRIM SONGS - THE SONGS OF ASCENT [PSALM 130]

During this time where our public gatherings are not able to meet, each Sunday we are providing you with a liturgy that you can use at home. You can use it in a number of ways: on your own, with your family, or with others from our church community via video conferencing. Our suggestion is that you take time to move through each of the sections below, listening to the songs, reflecting on the liturgy and hearing the word preached exactly as we do on a Sunday. As you move through it why not talk with others or, if you are on your own, message someone from your City Group or DNA Group to share something that really struck you. 

As you do this remember that we are still the church even when we can’t gather together as the church. 

CALL TO WORSHIP 

The bible is full of images to help us understand who God is and who we are. One of the images that is often repeated is that God is the great shepherd and his people are his sheep. This might not seem very flattering to us (after all, who wants to be a sheep) but it is an image rich with comfort and joy. Use these verses from Psalm 100 as you start your time of worship to remember that in Jesus you belong to the great shepherd who cares for you and watches over you. 

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations. 

[Psalm 100] 

SONG: Rejoice (Dustin Kensrue): A call to praise God and gaze upon His glory. A reminder that, even in the midst of our trials and suffering we still have reasons to rejoice in the Gospel.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Come and stand before your maker
Full of wonder full of fear
Come behold his power and glory
Yet with confidence draw near
For the one who holds the heavens
And commands the stars above
Is the God who bends to bless us
With an unrelenting love

Chorus 1

Rejoice
Come and lift your hands and raise your voice
He is worthy of all praise
Rejoice
Sing the mercies of your king
And with trembling rejoice

Verse 2

We are children of the promise
The beloved of the Lord
Won with everlasting kindness
Bought with sacrificial blood
Bringing reconciliation
To a world that longs to know
The affections of a father
Who will never let them go

Verse 3

All our sickness all our sorrows
Jesus carried up the hill
He has walked this path before us
He is walking with us still
Turning tragedy to triumph
Turning agony to praise
There is blessing in the battle
So take heart and stand amazed

Chorus 2

Rejoice
When you cry to him he hears your voice
He will wipe away your tears
Rejoice
In the midst of suffering
He will help you sing

CCLI Song # 7004663

Dustin Kensrue | Stuart Townend

© 2013 Dead Bird Theology (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

Townend Songs (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

We Are Younger We Are Faster Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

SONG: Look and See (The Village Church): A song that helps us gaze upon Christ, to direct our praise and worship to him, the one who has redeemed us.

LYRICS

Verse 1

To Him be the glory for all He has done
Praise to the Father who gave us His Son
A ransom for many He bled and died
Then rose in victory enthroned on high

Verse 2

To Him be the glory in heaven and earth
All of creation is shouting His worth
The saints and the angels all live to proclaim
The wonderful story the glorious Name

Chorus

Oh look and see our God and celebrate
The power of the cross and the empty grave
And now we're free let the redeemed
Lift up your heads
Oh look and see our God

Verse 3

To Him be the glory He's coming again
And all of the sadness will come to an end
Oh what a reunion the bride and her King
Forever we'll praise Him forever we'll sing

Bridge

Glory glory to our God glory glory to our God
Glory glory to our God glory glory to our God
(REPEAT)

CCLI Song # 6550721

Michael Bleecker | Ross King

© 2012 Bleecker Publishing (Admin. by Michael Bleecker)

Simple Tense Songs (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE 

In the Psalm we will be looking at today we are given a description of the situation that every one of us is in: 

If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?

[Ps 130:3] 

The answer to that question is that none of us could. If God recorded all of our sins none of us could stand before him. Even if God just took a record of this day we couldn’t stand before him. 

Confession is a time for us to be honest with God about that sin and to seek his forgiveness. So take a moment to confess your sin to God now. 

But the wonderful news of the gospel is that with God there is the hope of sins being dealt with. Through faith in Jesus we can experience the truth of the next verse in the Psalm: 

But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you.

[Ps 130:4] 

Rejoice in the fact that in Jesus there is full forgiveness of sins. That on the cross Jesus took our record of sin and gave us his record of righteousness. 

SONG: Forgiven (Sovereign Grace): A song of confession and assurance that reminds us we are forgiven through the blood of Christ, despite the ways we fail God and fail one another.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Lord forgive us for our pride
When our faith becomes a show
Dressed in righteous deeds to hide
All the stains below
We have judged Your sons and daughters
For the sin that is our own
May we now forgive each other
And lay down our stones

Chorus

Forgiven forgiven
Through the blood of Christ
We are forgiven

Verse 2

Lord forgive us for our love
Of the things we wish to own
We forsake the feast above
For all the crumbs below
Though You've made us sons and daughters
We do not the world disown
May we find our greatest treasure
Is in You alone

Verse 3

Lord forgive us for our shame
When we can't release the past
When we're quick to take the blame
But forget we're free at last
We avoid Your sons and daughters
For the fear we don't belong
Give us eyes to see each other
Through Your only Son

CCLI Song # 7096634

Brittany Kauflin | Kate DeGraide | Rebecca Elliott

© Sovereign Grace Praise (Admin. by Integrity Music)

Sovereign Grace Worship (Admin. by Integrity Music)

PASSING OF THE PEACE 

Because of Christ's work on the cross, his death and resurrection, we have been brought back into communion with our God and have been made righteous. We have peace with our creator, our heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit unites us together in Jesus. 

We normally express that peace with one another in our gatherings by greeting those around us. In this time where we can’t do that take a moment to pray for someone who is part of our church family instead. 

SERMON Pilgrim Songs- [Psalm 130] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the sermon. 

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

This week we’re continuing in our new series entitled ‘Pilgrim Songs’. Click here where you will find this week’s sermon.

RESPONSE 

Take a few minutes to reflect on how God was speaking to you from his Word. Ask that the Holy Spirit would take the truth and use it to change and transform you. 

SONG: Still my Soul be Still (Keith and Kristyn Getty): A song which helps us to quiet our souls amidst changes and hardships, and calls us to place our trust in God.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Still my soul be still and do not fear
Though winds of change may rage tomorrow
God is at your side no longer dread
The fires of unexpected sorrow

Chorus

God You are my God
And I will trust in You and not be shaken
Lord of peace renew
A steadfast spirit within me
To rest in You alone

Verse 2

Still my soul be still do not be moved
By lesser lights and fleeting shadows
Hold on to His ways with shield of faith
Against temptation's flaming arrows

Verse 3

Still my soul be still do not forsake
The truth you learned in the beginning
Wait upon the Lord and hope will rise
As stars appear when day is dimming

CCLI Song # 5469284

Keith Getty | Kristyn Getty | Stuart Townend

© 2008 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

SONG: Oh God (Citizens): An assurance that God is present with us in our struggles, when we feel alone and far from Him he is with us. A wonderful reminder that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

LYRICS

Verse 1

In the valley oh God You're near
In the quiet oh God You're near
In the shadow oh God You're near
At my breaking oh God You're near

Chorus 1

Oh God You never leave my side
Your love stands firm through all my life

Verse 2

In my searching oh God You're near
In my wandering oh God You're near
When I feel alone oh God You're near
At my lowest oh God You're near

Bridge

Height nor depth nor anything else
Could pull us apart
We are joined as one by Your blood
Hope will rise as we become more
Than conquerors through the One who loved the world

Chorus 2

Oh God You never leave my side
Oh God Your love will stand firm through all my life

CCLI Song # 6534493

Zach Bolen

© It's All About Jesus Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

We Are Younger We Are Faster Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

COMMITMENT READING 

As you prepare to finish your time of worship today use this prayer to ask God to help you to patiently wait for him: 

I wait for the Lord, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope. I wait for the Lord more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning. [Ps 130:5-6] 

Lord, waiting is a hard thing for us to do. We so often find ourselves restless and impatient. We want answers and we want them fast. Help us to patiently trust you as we wait. Help us to find more of you in the watching and the waiting.

Amen.

SONG: It Is Well (Matt Redman): A new song with a familiar chorus, this song reminds us that through trials and hardship, God is with us and we can rely upon him.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Our scars are a sign of grace in our lives
And Father how You brought us through
When deep were the wounds and dark was the night
The promise of Your love You proved
Now ev'ry battle still to come
Let this be our song

Chorus 1

It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well it is well with my soul

Verse 2

Weeping may come remain for a night
But joy will paint the morning sky
You're there in the fast You're there in the feast
Your faithfulness will always shine
Now ev'ry battle still to come
Let this be our song

Chorus 2

It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well it is well with my soul
Trust Your ways (trust Your ways)
Trust Your name (trust Your name)
It is well it is well with my soul
(It is well it is well with my soul my soul)

Bridge

You lead us through battles
(You lead us through battles)
You lead us to blessing
(You lead us to blessing)
And You make us fruitful
(And You make us fruitful)
In the land of our suffering God
It is well it is well with my soul

CCLI Song # 7043170

Beth Redman | Matt Redman

© Said And Done Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

sixsteps Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by Integrity Music)

BENEDICTION 

Close your time of worship with this benediction: 

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word. 

[2 Thess 2:16-17] 

Peace be with you

SUNDAY GATHERING (16th August 2020)

PILGRIM SONGS - THE SONGS OF ASCENT [PSALM 127]

During this time where our public gatherings are not able to meet, each Sunday we are providing you with a liturgy that you can use at home. You can use it in a number of ways: on your own, with your family, or with others from our church community via video conferencing. Our suggestion is that you take time to move through each of the sections below, listening to the songs, reflecting on the liturgy and hearing the word preached exactly as we do on a Sunday. As you move through it why not talk with others or, if you are on your own, message someone from your City Group or DNA Group to share something that really struck you. 

As you do this remember that we are still the church even when we can’t gather together as the church. 

CALL TO WORSHIP 

One of the reasons that we have to praise God is that he is everlasting. That means that he isn’t subject to time like we are. So many of our frustrations and limitations flow from the fact that we never have enough time to do what we want to do. That is a humbling experience - a reminder of our human limitations. But the wonderful truth is that God is powerful in ways that we are not, so start your time of worship today with these words from the Old Testament: 

Praise be to you, LORD, from everlasting to everlasting. Yours, LORD, is the greatness, the power, the glory, the majesty and the splendour, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honour come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name. 

[1 Chronicles 29:10-13] 

SONG: Come Praise and Glorify (Sovereign Grace): A call to praise and glorify the God who has shown his grace to us in Christ.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Come praise and glorify our God
The Father of our Lord
In Christ He has in heav'nly realms
His blessings on us poured
For pure and blameless in His sight
He destined us to be
And now we've been adopted through
His Son eternally

Chorus

To the praise of Your glory
To the praise of Your mercy and grace
To the praise of Your glory
You are the God who saves

Verse 2

Come praise and glorify our God
Who gives His grace in Christ
In Him our sins are washed away
Redeemed through sacrifice
In Him God has made known to us
The myst'ry of His will
That Christ should be the head of all
His purpose to fulfill

Verse 3

Come praise and glorify our God
For we've believed the Word
And through our faith we have a seal
The Spirit of the Lord
The Spirit guarantees our hope
Until redemption's done
Until we join in endless praise
To God the Three in One

CCLI Song # 6167664

Bob Kauflin | Tim Chester

© 2011 Sovereign Grace Praise (Admin. by Integrity Music)

SONG: Everlasting God (Brenton Brown): A song affirming the eternal, unchanging nature of God who never tires or grows weary.

LYRICS

Verse

Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord
We will wait upon the Lord

Pre-Chorus

Our God You reign forever
Our Hope our strong Deliv'rer

Chorus

You are the everlasting God
The everlasting God
You do not faint
You won't grow weary
You're the defender of the weak
You comfort those in need
You lift us up on wings like eagles

CCLI Song # 4556538

Brenton Brown | Ken Riley

© 2005 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE 

In the Psalm we will be looking at today we are told that so many of our concerns and worries come from a failure to see that God is at work. 

Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves. 

[Ps 127:1-2] 

Because we forget that it is God who is at work underneath everything we do, and that God is the giver of every good thing we have, we find our worry and toil increasing. Ultimately, we start to believe that we are in control instead of trusting that God is. So take a moment to confess the way that you wrongly believe you are in control of your life and the world. 

The gospel gives us peace. We can humbly admit that we do not have the kind of control we like to think we have but also know that in Christ God rules and reigns for the good of his people. That is a wonderful place from where we can serve God and serve others in world with joy and gladness. 

SONG: You Alone Can Rescue (Matt Redman):  A reminder that it is Jesus who saves us from our sin, he came into this world to rescue the lost and is worthy of all of our praise.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Who O Lord could save themselves
Their own soul could heal
Our shame was deeper than the sea
Your grace is deeper still
(REPEAT)

Chorus 1

And You alone can rescue
You alone can save
You alone can lift us from the grave
You came down to find us led us out of death
To You alone belongs the highest praise

Verse 2

You O Lord have made a way
The great divide You healed
For when our hearts were far away
Your love went further still
Yes Your love goes further still

Chorus 2

And You alone can rescue
You alone can save
You alone can lift us from the grave
You came down to find us led us out of death
To You alone belongs the highest praise
To You alone belongs the highest praise
You alone

Bridge

We lift up our eyes
Lift up our eyes
You're the giver of life
We lift up our eyes
Lift up our eyes
You're the giver of life
(REPEAT 4X)

Ending

To You alone belongs the highest praise
To You alone belongs the highest praise
To You alone

CCLI Song # 5376377

Jonas Myrin | Matt Redman

© 2008 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

Atlas Mountain Songs (Admin. by SHOUT! Music Publishing UK)

PASSING OF THE PEACE 

Because of Christ's work on the cross, his death and resurrection, we have been brought back into communion with our God and have been made righteous. We have peace with our creator, our heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit unites us together in Jesus. 

We normally express that peace with one another in our gatherings by greeting those around us. In this time where we can’t do that take a moment to pray for someone who is part of our church family instead. 

SERMON Pilgrim Songs- [Psalm 127] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the sermon. 

This week we’re continuing in our new series entitled ‘Pilgrim Songs’. Click here where you will find this week’s sermon.

RESPONSE 

Take a few minutes to reflect on how God was speaking to you from his Word. Ask that the Holy Spirit would take the truth and use it to change and transform you. 

SONG: Build this House (Lou Fellingham): A song based on Psalm 127 which reminds to build our lives upon God, and how much we rely on him as a protector and provider.

LYRICS

Verse 1

All I have and all I am is Yours
There's nothing that I have on earth
That doesn't come from You
I lay aside my pride and worldly worth
To serve You is the greatest
Thing that I could ever do

Chorus

For unless You build this house
I am building it in vain
Unless the work is Yours
There is nothing to be gained
I want something that will stand
When Your holy fire comes
Something that will last
And to hear You say well done
Giving glory to You Lord
Glory to You Lord

Verse 2

So easy to desire what others have
Instead of seeing all the gifts
That You have given me
So help me fan the flame which You began
And burn in me a love for You
That all will clearly see

CCLI Song # 4718565

Lou Fellingham | Mike Busbee | Nathan Fellingham

© 2005 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

The Livingstone Collective (Admin. by Integrity Music)

SONG: All I Have is Christ (Sovreign Grace): A song which points us back o the cross amidst life’s hardships, and reminds us that we can rely upon Jesus’ steadfast love for us.

LYRICS

Verse 1

I once was lost in darkest night
Yet thought I knew the way
The sin that promised joy and life
Had led me to the grave
I had no hope that You would own
A rebel to Your will
And if You had not loved me first
I would refuse You still

Verse 2

But as I ran my hell-bound race
Indifferent to the cost
You looked upon my helpless state
And led me to the cross
And I beheld God's love displayed
You suffered in my place
You bore the wrath reserved for me
Now all I know is grace

Chorus

Hallelujah all I have is Christ
Hallelujah Jesus is my life

Verse 3

Now Lord I would be Yours alone
And live so all might see
The strength to follow Your commands
Could never come from me
O Father use my ransomed life
In any way You choose
And let my song forever be
My only boast is You

CCLI Song # 5174122

Jordan Kauflin

© 2008 Sovereign Grace Praise (Admin. by Integrity Music)

COMMITMENT READING 

Let’s prepare to end this time of worship by remembering that all of our confidence as a church is that Jesus grows and builds us: 

Jesus said:

“I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it” [Mt 16:18] 

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.

[1 Cor 3:6-7] 

What hope and confidence we can have that Jesus is at work to bring growth and fruit. 

SONG: Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone) (Chris Tomlin): An adapted version of the old hymn, celebrating the grace we have received from God and the freedom we can know in Christ.

LYRICS

Verse 1

Amazing grace how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me
I once was lost but now I'm found
Was blind but now I see

Verse 2

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear
And grace my fears relieved
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed

Chorus

My chains are gone I've been set free
My God my Savior has ransomed me
And like a flood His mercy rains
Unending love amazing grace

Verse 3

The Lord has promised good to me
His word my hope secures
He will my shield and portion be
As long as life endures

Verse 4

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God who called me here below
Will be forever mine
Will be forever mine
You are forever mine

CCLI Song # 4768151

Chris Tomlin | John Newton | Louie Giglio

© 2006 sixsteps Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

Vamos Publishing (Admin. by Integrity Music)

worshiptogether.com songs (Admin. by Integrity Music)

BENEDICTION 

Close your time of worship with this benediction: 

May you grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 

[2 Peter 3:18] 

Peace be with you

SUNDAY GATHERING (9th August 2020)

PILGRIM SONGS - THE SONGS OF ASCENT [PSALM 126]

During this time where our public gatherings are not able to meet, each Sunday we are providing you with a liturgy that you can use at home. You can use it in a number of ways: on your own, with your family, or with others from our church community via video conferencing. Our suggestion is that you take time to move through each of the sections below, listening to the songs, reflecting on the liturgy and hearing the word preached exactly as we do on a Sunday. As you move through it why not talk with others or, if you are on your own, message someone from your City Group or DNA Group to share something that really struck you. 

As you do this remember that we are still the church even when we can’t gather together as the church. 

CALL TO WORSHIP 

Worship comes naturally to humans. Every single one of us gives praise to things that we consider to be worthy and good and beautiful. We instinctively speak about and praise the things that capture our hearts and that we love. What God has done to the heart of a Christian is reveal that he is more worthy and beautiful than any other thing. That he deserves all of our praise. So start your time of worship today with a Psalm that speaks to us of this. 

Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendour of your majesty— and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They tell of the power of your awesome works— and I will proclaim your great deeds. They celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.

[Ps 145:3-7] 

SONG: All Creatures of our God and King: A song of praise and worship of our God, the author and sustainer of life.

CCLI Song # 7032878

Chad Gardner

© 2014 Asaphs Arrows (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

Moms Like Us Too (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

SONG: Cornerstone (Hillsong): A song reflecting on the wonderful truth of Christ as our Cornerstone. A reminder that our hope and trust should always be built on Jesus and His saving work on the cross.

CCLI Song # 6158927

Edward Mote | Eric Liljero | Jonas Myrin | Reuben Morgan | William Batchelder Bradbury

© 2011 Hillsong MP Songs (Admin. by Hillsong Music Publishing UK)

Hillsong Music Publishing Australia (Admin. by Hillsong Music Publishing UK)

CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE 

In the Psalm we looked at last week we are reminded that there is hope and security for those who trust in God. 

Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be moved, but abides for ever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds his people, from this time forth and for evermore.

[Ps 125:1-2] 

But we are so quick to forget that truth. Instead of rooting our hope in the steadfast security of Jesus we move hope onto other things: people, possessions, status, health. Take a moment of quiet confession as you speak to God about where you are trusting in other things. 

The gospel tells us that Jesus is worthy of all our trust. That he has demonstrated the extent of his love by going all the way to the cross for us. Sing this next song in the confidence of that hope. 

SONG: Look What God Has Done (Ghost Ship): A call for us to look again at what God has done for us in Jesus Christ. To remind our hearts of the identity we have in the Gospel and to give God all the glory.

CCLI Song # 7061244

Brian Eichelberger | Cam Huxford | Zach Bolen

© 2015 Hymnographer (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

We Are Younger We Are Faster Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

Remaining portion is unaffiliated

PASSING OF THE PEACE 

Because of Christ's work on the cross, his death and resurrection, we have been brought back into communion with our God and have been made righteous. We have peace with our creator, our heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit unites us together in Jesus. 

We normally express that peace with one another in our gatherings by greeting those around us. In this time where we can’t do that take a moment to pray for someone who is part of our church family instead. 

SERMON Pilgrim Songs- [Psalm 126] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the sermon. 

This week we’re continuing in our new series entitled ‘Pilgrim Songs’. Click here where you will find this week’s sermon.

RESPONSE 

Take a few minutes to reflect on how God was speaking to you from his Word. Ask that the Holy Spirit would take the truth and use it to change and transform you. 

SONG: New Again (Sojourn): A song looking forward to the future hope we have in the gospel. We look to the day when all pain and sorrow will be over and Christ will make all things new again!

CCLI Song # 7037768

Brooks Ritter | Mike Cosper

© 2013 Sojourn Community Church

SONG: O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing (Zach Sprowls): A new take on the old hymn, reminding us of the hope we have in the Gospel, that one day the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory.

CCLI Song # 863569

Charles Wesley | Thomas Jarman

© Words: Public Domain

Music: Public Domain

COMMITMENT READING 

Let’s prepare to end this time of worship by reminding ourselves of where our confidence to keep going as Christians lies: 

And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

[Phil 1:6] 

SONG: This I Believe (The Creed) (Hillsong): A song based on the Apostle’s creed that affirms the truths we believe as Christians.

CCLI Song # 7018338

Ben Fielding | Matt Crocker

© 2014 Hillsong Music Publishing Australia (Admin. by Hillsong Music Publishing UK)

BENEDICTION 

Close your time of worship with this benediction: 

May God make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.

[2 Cor 9:8] 

Peace be with you

SUNDAY GATHERING (2nd August 2020)

PILGRIM SONGS - THE SONGS OF ASCENT [PSALM 125]

During this time where our public gatherings are not able to meet, each Sunday we are providing you with a liturgy that you can use at home.

You can use it in a number of ways: on your own, with your family, or with others from our church community via video conferencing.

Our suggestion is that you take time to move through each of the sections below, listening to the songs, reflecting on the liturgy and hearing the word preached exactly as we do on a Sunday.

As you move  through it why not talk with others or, if you are on your own, message someone from your City Group or DNA Group to share something that really struck you.

As you do this remember that we are still the church even when we can’t gather together as the church. 

CALL TO WORSHIP

God’s word is full of reminders and testimonies that God is the safest refuge we can know. In times of difficulty, trouble or when we feel we are carrying a very heavy burden we can find rest and safety in him. 

Psalm 18 vs 2-3 says,

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress

And my deliverer, 

My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,

My shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. 

I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised, and I am saved from my enemies.” 

In the face of brutish enemies God comforts his people in Nahum 1 vs 7 saying,    

“The Lord is good, 

A stronghold in the day of trouble;

He knows those who take refuge in him.” 

Today we want to praise God that he is our rock. Like an eagle he spreads his wings around his people. He knows you, you who take refuge in him. 

SONG: Rock of Ages (Dustin Kensrue): A reminder that God is the rock and refuge who cleanses us from our sin.

LYRICS

Rock of ages cleft for me Let me hide myself in Thee
Let the water and the blood
From Thy wounded side which flowed
Be of sin the double cure
Save from wrath and make me pure

Not the labours of my hands
Can fulfil the law's commands
Should my passion never fade
And my efforts all be weighed
All for sin could not atone
You must save and You alone

Rock of ages
No one takes Your life
Yet You died that I might live
Costly grace You freely give
Rock of ages
You have paid the price
You were cleft to cover me
Let me hide myself in Thee

Nothing in my hand I bring
Simply to the cross I cling
Naked come to Thee for dress
Helpless look to Thee for grace
Wretched to the fount I fly
Wash me Saviour or I die

Rock of ages
No one takes Your life
Yet You died that I might live
Costly grace You freely give
Rock of ages
You have paid the price
You were cleft to cover me
Let me hide myself in Thee

And while I draw my final breath
I'll rest upon Your grace
And when I close my eyes in death
I'll wake to see Your face

Rock of ages No one takes Your life
Yet You died that I might live
Costly grace You freely give
Rock of ages
You have paid the price
You were cleft to cover me
Let me hide myself in Thee

CCLI Song # 7004664

Augustus Montague Toplady | Dustin Kensrue

© 2013 Dead Bird Theology (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

It's All About Jesus Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

We Are Younger We Are Faster Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

SONG: A Mighty Fortress (Heartsong): A reminder that God is our fortress and shield even in the midst of trial and difficulty.

LYRICS

A mighty fortress is our God A bulwark never failing
Our helper He amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing
For still our ancient foe
Doth seek to work us woe
His craft and pow'r are great
And armed with cruel hate
On earth is not his equal

If we in our own strength confide
Our striving would be losing
Were not the right Man on our side
The Man of God's own choosing
You ask who that may be
Christ Jesus it is He
The Lord of Hosts His name
From age to age the same
And He must win the battle

And tho' this world with devils filled
Should threaten to undo us
We will not fear for God hath willed
His truth to triumph through us

And tho' this world with devils filled
Should threaten to undo us
We will not fear for God hath willed
His truth to triumph through us

A Mighty Fortress is our God
His kingdom is forever
His kingdom is forever

If we in our own strength confide
Our striving would be losing

CCLI Song # 5305221

Martin Luther

CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE

We know from God’s word that he is our rock and our refuge. We can tell stories of times in our lives where we have known that truth personally. Yet we also know that we are easily shaken and unsettled. We leave the shelter of God for many reasons and go to many different places. 

Trials and tribulations can sometimes leave us feeling like a ship tossed around in a storm. 

We want to pause this afternoon to confess that we are so different to you, our God. You are strong and secure, you know us and want us to find shelter in you. 

Our troubled hearts are easily unsettled. We find it hard to trust in you, we look to many other places for security. 

We confess our weakness and wanderings to you, our loving God, we are sorry when we don’t embrace you as our rock and refuge. 

Moving out of confession we take joy in remembering our Saviour Jesus, who died that we might find refuge from our sin in him, our hope and security rests on what God has done. So we praise you God that in you we can know refuge in this life and the life to come. 

SONG: In Tenderness (Citizens): A wonderful reminder that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

CCLI Song # 6536051

Nate Garvey | W. Spencer Walton

© Words: Public Domain

Music: 2013 It's All About Jesus Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

We Are Younger We Are Faster Music (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

PASSING OF THE PEACE

Because of Christ's work on the cross, his death and resurrection, we have been brought back into communion with our God and have been made righteous. We have peace with our creator, our heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit unites us together in Jesus.

We normally express that peace with one another in our gatherings by greeting those around us. In this time where we can’t do that take a moment to pray for someone who is part of our church family instead. 

SERMON The Psalms Of Ascent- [Ps 125] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the sermon.

This week we’re continuing in our new series entitled ‘Pilgrim Songs’. Click here where you will find this week’s sermon.

RESPONSE

Take a few minutes to reflect on how God was speaking to you from his Word. Ask that the Holy Spirit would take the truth and use it to change and transform you.

SONG: Jesus is the Lord of All (Olly Knight): A glorious reminder that Jesus reigns over all.  He is King of kings and  Lord of lords.

CCLI Song # 7141648

Olly Knight | Rob Shillito

© Olly Knight Songs (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

SONG: Never Alone (Emu Music): A song which reminds us that because of everything Jesus endured on the cross for our sakes, we can live secure in the knowledge that our God will never forsake us.

LYRICS

We're not alone for Christ is here Immanuel our God come near
We're not alone for to our world
Jesus has come eternal Word
And as he speaks our souls laid bare
Naked ashamed sin is made clear
And yet he clothes us in his love
Never alone Christ is with us is with us

The longest walk earth's darkest day
The pressing crowd his mounting pain
A heavy load of grief and shame
Breathless that we should breathe again
Father forgive them comes his cry
Silence from God blackens the sky
A creeping dread in every heart
Lost in the world now God departs God departs

The dawn will come the sun will rise
Out of the grave we'll see hope's light
Tomb opened wide stone rolled away
Morning has come a brand new day
He isn't here the angel said
He is alive no longer dead
Our hearts are lifted souls raised high
Christ is with us Christ is our life he's our life

Never alone is now our cry
In joy in grief in lonely sin
Never alone for Christ is ours
He lives in us we live in him
And 'til we reach that final day
When fears are gone cast far away
We'll live secure trust in his love
Never alone Christ is with us he's with us

CCLI Song # 4928159

Philip Percival | Simone Richardson

© Words: 2006 Richardson, Simone

Music: Percival, Philip (Admin. by Philip Gordon Percival)

COMMITMENT READING

Our hope and refuge is in our God, who not only initiated bringing us to salvation in him but who will hold onto us till the very end. That is the God who we can trust in the midst of our circumstances.  

Paul wrote on this, saying: 

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.”  

(Philippians 1vs 3-6)

SONG: Defender (Kings Kaleidoscope): A song which reminds us that when we cry out to God, he hears us, and that we need not fear because we can place our hope in him.

CCLI Song # 7032881

Chad Gardner | Zach Bolen

© 2014 Asaphs Arrows (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

Moms Like Us Too (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

Remaining portion is unaffiliated

BENEDICTION 

Every week we close our times of worship with a benediction. Here these words as we finish today:

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.

(2 Thessalonians 2 vs 16-17)

Peace be with you