SUNDAY GATHERING (11th October 2020)

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

We begin all our times of worship with a call to worship. We can be easily distracted by so much around us and can be quick to forget who God is and all that he has done for us. A call to worship draws our gaze back to God again and reminds us who it is we worship. So, as you begin your time of worship today, reflect on the character of our God in these words of the Psalmist: 

The LORD is merciful and compassionate, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love. The LORD is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all his creation.

The LORD is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does. The LORD upholds all who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down.

My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever.

(Psalm 145:8-14)

SONG: All Praise to Him (Sovereign Grace): A song of praise that speaks of the power of God which is displayed in creation and in Jesus’ death and resurrection.

LYRICS

All praise to Him the God of light
Who formed the mountains by His might
All praise to Him Who names the stars
That sing His fame in skies afar
All praise to Him Who reigns in love
Who guides the galaxies above
Yet bends to hear our every prayer
With sovereign pow'r and tender care

All praise to Him Whose love is seen
In Christ the Son the servant King
Who left behind His glorious throne
To pay the ransom for His own
All praise to Him Who humbly came
To bear our sorrow sin and shame
Who lived to die Who died to rise
The all-sufficient sacrifice

All praise to Him whose pow'r imparts
The love of God within our hearts
The Spirit of all truth and peace
The fount of joy and holiness
To Father Son and Spirit now
Our souls we lift our wills we bow
To You the Triune God we raise
With loving hearts our song of praise

CCLI Song # 7096636

Bob Kauflin | Matt Merker

© Sovereign Grace Praise (Admin. by Integrity Music)

SONG: Fountain of Goodness (Olly Knight): A song of praise, celebrating our God who is the fount of all that is good.

LYRICS

Fountain of goodness beauty ever-streaming love
Pouring out every blessing on your perfect Son
Father before all things
Your joy was found in him

Radiant light of heaven ever-cherished Son
Knowing such perfect closeness
With your Father one
Jesus you came to us to share all that was yours

Our God is good He’s shown such love
Now adopted in the Son to you we come
And we delight in you our God
You loved us first and now our hearts are yours

Giver of life for ever resting on the Son
Bringing the joy of knowing all the Father’s love
Spirit you’ve made us Christ’s
Now we’re as loved as him

Our God is good He’s shown such love
Now adopted in the Son to you we come
And we delight in you our God
You loved us first and now our hearts are yours

CCLI Song # 6358617

Mike Reeves | Olly Knight

© 2012 Song Solutions Daybreak (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE

Even though we’ve seen and experienced God’s mercy towards us, if we were honest today, we would admit that we often struggle to accept his merciful gift of grace. Maybe you find it hard because you want to earn your salvation and believe that if you work hard enough, God will accept you. Perhaps, you find it difficult because you feel so unworthy of this gift and you can’t understand how God could love you. Take a moment now to reflect on that, to confess the ways you struggle to accept God’s gift of salvation. 

The truth of the Gospel is that even though we are all undeserving of God’s gift of grace, through Jesus’ death and resurrection, we can know forgiveness and reconciliation,  if we put our trust in him. Be encouraged by these words of assurance to us today: 

When the goodness and loving kindness of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy.

He washed us by the regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Saviour.

And so we have been justified by his grace so that we might become his heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

(Titus 3:4-7) 

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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: The Gospel of Mark [Mk 5:1-20] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the sermon.

This week we’re continuing our series ‘The Gospel of Mark’. 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 Paid it All (Kings Kaleidoscope): A hymn that centers on the price Jesus paid to save us from our sin and the new life we are raised to in Christ.

LYRICS

I hear the Savior say
Thy strength indeed is small
Child of weakness
Watch and pray
Find in Me thine all in all

Lord now indeed I find
Thy power and Thine alone
Jesus died my soul to save
And melt my heart of stone

Jesus paid it all
All to Him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow

And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete
Jesus died my soul to save
My lips shall still repeat

Jesus paid it all
All to Him I owe
Sin had left a crimson stain
He washed it white as snow

Oh praise the One
Who paid my debt
And raised this life up from the dead
Oh praise the One
Who paid my debt
And raised this life up from the dead
(REPEAT)

CCLI Song # 7065567

Chad Gardner

© 2015 Moms Like Us Too (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

SONG: Lamb of God (Vertical Worship): A song that reflects on Jesus, the Lamb of God, slain for our sin.

LYRICS

You came from heaven's throne
Acquainted with our sorrow
To trade the debt we owe
Your suff'ring for our freedom

The Lamb of God in my place
Your blood poured out my sin erased
It was my death You died I am raised to life
Hallelujah the Lamb of God

My name upon Your heart
My shame upon Your shoulders
The pow'r of sin undone
The cross for my salvation

The Lamb of God in my place
Your blood poured out my sin erased
It was my death You died I am raised to life
Hallelujah the Lamb of God

There is no greater love
There is no greater love
The Savior lifted up
There is no greater love

The Lamb of God in my place
Your blood poured out my sin erased
It was my death You died I am raised to life
Hallelujah the Lamb of God

CCLI Song # 7032328

Andi Rozier | Jason Ingram | Meredith Andrews

© 2014 Curb Word Music (Admin. by / Small Stone Media BV, Holland (Admin. in the UK/Eire by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org))

All Essential Music (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)

HBC Worship Music (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)

Open Hands Music (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)

So Essential Tunes (Admin. by Essential Music Publishing LLC)

COMMITMENT READING

Jesus has reconciled us to God and given us a new identity. In him, we are who we were created to be. 

Make these words your prayer as you thank God now and ask him to help you live in this new identity. 

Heavenly Father, thank you that you have called us out of darkness into your wonderful light. Thank you that in Jesus, we are a new creation and can know new life. Help us to trust you with our lives and equip us, by your Spirit, to share the good news of Jesus with those around us. Amen. 

[based on 1 Pt 2:9 & 2 Corinthians 5:17 ]

SONG: Lion and the Lamb (Bethel Music): A celebration of Jesus, our saviour, who is both the lion of Judah and the lamb of God.

LYRICS

He's coming on the clouds
Kings and kingdoms will bow down
And every chain will break
As broken hearts declare His praise
For who can stop the Lord Almighty

Our God is the Lion
The Lion of Judah
He's roaring with power
And fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before Him
Our God is the Lamb
The Lamb that was slain
For the sins of the world
His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Every knee will bow before Him

So open up the gates
Make way before the King of kings
The God who comes to save
Is here to set the captives free
For who can stop the Lord Almighty

Our God is the Lion
The Lion of Judah
He's roaring with power
And fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before Him
Our God is the Lamb
The Lamb that was slain
For the sins of the world
His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Every knee will bow before Him

Who can stop the Lord Almighty
Who can stop the Lord (Almighty)

Our God is the Lion
The Lion of Judah
He's roaring with power
And fighting our battles
And every knee will bow before Him
Our God is the Lamb
The Lamb that was slain
For the sins of the world
His blood breaks the chains
And every knee will bow before the Lion and the Lamb
Every knee will bow before Him

CCLI Song # 7038281

Brenton Brown | Brian Johnson | Leeland Mooring

© 2015 Meaux Mercy (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)

The Devil Is A Liar! Publishing (Admin. by Capitol CMG Publishing)

Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

Bethel Music Publishing (Admin. by Song Solutions)

BENEDICTION 

Close your time of worship with this benediction:

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

(Revelation 1:5-6)

Peace be with you

SUNDAY GATHERING (4th October 2020)

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  

We were made to know and enjoy God but the great disaster at the start of creation was that sin  disrupted our knowledge and enjoyment of God. But the gospel is the wonderful news that in  Christ we are untied to God. That our great creator becomes our father. Use the words of this  Psalm as a reminder to your heart of how we can now both know and enjoy God: 

You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; 

I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, 

in a dry and parched land where there is no water. 

I have seen you in the sanctuary and beheld your power and your glory. 

Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. 

I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. 

I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.

[Psalm 63:1-5] 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CCLI Song # 6167664

Bob Kauflin | Tim Chester

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 parables of Jesus that we are looking at together today in Mark chapter four, we are told that  the Kingdom of God is like a seed. One of the things that means is that growth and fruit, from  God’s perspective, often follow a different timeline to what we expect. Instead of accepting that in  faith too often we find our hearts inpatient and frustrated. We think something must have gone  wrong, feel we have a better plan and even begin to doubt God’s love and kindness towards us.  Use the words of this prayer as you speak to your father about how often you fail to trust his timing:  

Father, forgive our impatient hearts that believe our timing is better than yours and our plans wiser  than yours. Help me to remember that the kingdom grows at your pace and in your ways. Let me trust your ways even when they seem mysterious to me. Instead of measuring you by my limited  understanding, let me look to your steadfast love shown to me in Jesus and find my heart at rest in  him.  

Amen  

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

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

Forgiven forgiven
Through the blood of Christ
We are forgiven

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

Forgiven forgiven
Through the blood of Christ
We are forgiven

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

Forgiven forgiven
Through the blood of Christ
We are forgiven

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 The Gospel of Mark- [Mk 4:1-34] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the  sermon. 

This week we’re continuing our series ‘The Gospel of Mark’. 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:  How Deep the Father’s Love: A reflection on the depth of  God’s love shown to us in the cross of Christ.

LYRICS

How deep the Father's love for us
How vast beyond all measure
That He should give His only Son
To make a wretch His treasure
How great the pain of searing loss
The Father turns His face away
As wounds which mar the Chosen One
Bring many sons to glory

Behold the Man upon a cross
My sin upon His shoulders
Ashamed I hear my mocking voice
Call out among the scoffers
It was my sin that held Him there
Until it was accomplished
His dying breath has brought me life
I know that it is finished

I will not boast in anything
No gifts no pow’r no wisdom
But I will boast in Jesus Christ
His death and resurrection
Why should I gain from His reward
I cannot give an answer
But this I know with all my heart
His wounds have paid my ransom

CCLI Song # 1558110

Stuart Townend

© 1995 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

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

LYRICS

In tenderness He sought me
Weary and sick with sin
And on His shoulders brought me
Back to His fold again
While angels in His presence sang
Until the courts of heaven rang

Oh the love that sought me
Oh the blood that bought me
Oh the grace that brought me to the fold of God
Grace that brought me to the fold of God

He died for me while I was sinning
Needy and poor and blind
He whispered to assure me
I've found thee thou art Mine
I'd never heard a sweeter voice
It made my aching heart rejoice

Oh the love that sought me
Oh the blood that bought me
Oh the grace that brought me to the fold of God
Grace that brought me to the fold of God

Upon His grace I'll daily ponder
And sing anew His praise
With all adoring wonder
His blessings I retrace
It seems as if eternal days
Are far too short to sing His praise

Oh the love that sought me
Oh the blood that bought me
Oh the grace that brought me to the fold of God
Grace that brought me to the fold of God

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)

COMMITMENT READING 

Use this prayer to guide your heart as you come to the close of this time of worship: 

All wise and all loving Father, I praise you that the kingdom you are building is unstoppable. I  thank you that King Jesus is on his throne and that nothing can stand in the way of his plans.  May I learn that I have a part to play in those plans but that the growth is always down to you.

Amen 

SONG:  When I Survey: A reflection on the cross of Jesus, focusing on the blood shed for to save us from our sin

LYRICS

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 e'er such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown

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

CCLI Song # 5120516

Isaac Watts | Tim Hughes

© 2007 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

BENEDICTION  

Close your time of worship with this benediction: 

Finally, brothers and sisters, would we rejoice and aim for restoration. Let us comfort one  another, agree with one another and live in peace; knowing that the God of love and peace will  be with us.  

[2 Corinthians 13:11] 

Peace be with you

SUNDAY GATHERING (27th September 2020)

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 

There is great joy to be found as we turn our hearts towards praise and worship. As we express our thanksgiving for who God is and what God has done it turns us out from ourselves and lets us focus on God’s goodness. Let the words of this Psalm draw you towards that joy filled worship today: 

My heart is steadfast, O God, my heart is steadfast! I will sing and make melody! Awake, my glory! Awake, O harp and lyre! I will awake the dawn! I will give thanks to you, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing praises to you among the nations. For your steadfast love is great to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens! Let your glory be over all the earth!

[Psalm 57:7-11] 

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.

LYRICS

My hope is built on nothing less
Than Jesus' blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
But wholly trust in Jesus' Name
(REPEAT)

Christ alone cornerstone
Weak made strong in the Saviour's love
Through the storm He is Lord
Lord of all

When darkness seems to hide His face
I rest on His unchanging grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor holds within the veil
My anchor holds within the veil

Christ alone cornerstone
Weak made strong in the Saviour's love
Through the storm He is Lord
Lord of all

When He shall come with trumpet sound
Oh may I then in Him be found
Dressed in His righteousness alone
Faultless stand before the throne

Christ alone cornerstone
Weak made strong in the Saviour's love
Through the storm He is Lord
Lord of all

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)

Hillsong Music Publishing UK

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 labors of my hands
Can fulfill 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 Savior 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)

CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE 

God is worthy of all the glory and praise and yet so often our hearts don't match our words. This is how God describes it to his people in Isaiah: 

These people honour me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. They worship me in vain; their teachings are merely human rules."

(Isaiah 29:13) 

So often our mouths say one thing, yet our hearts tell a different story. We say we love God, but the desires of our heart are so far from him. God doesn't want our empty words, he wants our hearts. So take a moment to ask God to turn your heart towards him, showing you where you might be resisting him. 

Even though we turn from God and our hearts can be far from him, he doesn't turn away from us. Jesus came down into this world so that sin could no longer separate us from God. If we trust in Jesus' death and resurrection we can know forgiveness from sin and relationship with God. Let that truth reassure your heart today. 

SONG: Lead us Back (Sojourn): A song of confession that we so often seek security, comfort and the worship of other idols above God. A plea that God would lead us back to life in him.

LYRICS

Falling down upon our knees
Sharing now in common shame
We have sought security
Not the cross that bears your name
Fences guard our hearts and homes
Comfort sings a siren tune
We're a valley of dry bones
Lead us back to life in you

Lord we fall upon our knees
We have shunned the weak and poor
Worshipped beauty courted kings
And the things their gold affords
Prayed for those we'd like to know
Favor sings a siren tune
We've become a talent show
Lead us back to life in you

Lord you've caused the blind to see
We have blinded them again
With our man-made laws and creeds
Eager ready to condemn
Now we plead before your throne
Power sings a siren tune
We've been throwing heavy stones
Lead us back to life in you

We're a valley of dry bones
Lead us back to life in you
We've become a talent show
Lead us back to life in you
We've been throwing heavy stones
Lead us back to life in you

CCLI Song # 4878333

Bobby Gilles | Brooks Ritter

© 2006 Gilles, Bobby (Admin. by Robert E. Gilles Jr.)

Sojourn Community Church

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 Gospel of Mark- [Mk 4:1-34] Watch the pre-sermon message and then the sermon. 

This week we’re continuing our series ‘The Gospel of Mark’. 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: Come Thou Fount: A song of  praise of the God who brings our wandering hearts back to himself.

LYRICS

Come Thou Fount of every blessing
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace
Streams of mercy never ceasing
Call for songs of loudest praise
Teach me some melodious sonnet
Sung by flaming tongues above
Praise the mount I'm fixed upon it
Mount of God's unchanging love

Here I raise my Ebenezer
Hither by Thy help I'm come
And I hope by Thy good pleasure
Safely to arrive at home
Jesus sought me when a stranger
Wandering from the fold of God
He to rescue me from danger
Interposed His precious blood

O to grace how great a debtor
Daily I'm constrained to be
Let Thy grace now like a fetter
Bind my wandering heart to Thee
Prone to wander Lord I feel it
Prone to leave the God I love
Here's my heart O take and seal it
Seal it for Thy courts above

CCLI Song # 7055916

Chad Gardner | Robert Robinson

© Words: Public Domain

Music: 2012 Asaphs Arrows (Admin. by Song Solutions www.songsolutions.org)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 

Use the words of this prayer to ask for God’s help as we seek to witness to those around us: 

Heavenly Father we ask that you would help us to bring your light into our homes, work places, families and friendships. Would our relationships be life-giving rather than joy- sapping. Help us to be a blessing to those around us and boldly share the gospel with the people you have put in our lives. Equip us as we seek to act against injustice and oppression in our city, living lives that demonstrate the gospel to a watching world.

Amen 

SONG: In Christ Alone (Stuart Townend): A glorious reminder that it is only in Christ that our hope can be found. In him our sin has been taken away, we are free from the grip of death and we stand secure.

LYRICS

In Christ alone my hope is found
He is my light my strength my song
This Cornerstone this solid Ground
Firm through the fiercest drought and storm
What heights of love what depths of peace
When fears are stilled when strivings cease
My Comforter my All in All
Here in the love of Christ I stand

In Christ alone who took on flesh
Fullness of God in helpless babe
This gift of love and righteousness
Scorned by the ones He came to save
Till on that cross as Jesus died
The wrath of God was satisfied
For every sin on Him was laid
Here in the death of Christ I live

There in the ground His body lay
Light of the world by darkness slain
Then bursting forth in glorious Day
Up from the grave He rose again
And as He stands in victory
Sin's curse has lost its grip on me
For I am His and He is mine
Bought with the precious blood of Christ

No guilt in life no fear in death
This is the power of Christ in me
From life's first cry to final breath
Jesus commands my destiny
No power of hell no scheme of man
Can ever pluck me from His hand
Till He returns or calls me home
Here in the power of Christ I'll stand

CCLI Song # 3350395

Keith Getty | Stuart Townend

© 2001 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Integrity Music)

BENEDICTION 

Close your time of worship with this benediction: 

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

[Romans 15:13] 

Peace be with you

SUNDAY GATHERING (20th September 2020)

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 

In uncertain times it is so good for us to fix our hearts on the unchanging stability of God. He is the anchor that we need at all times, but especially when the world seems to change so often. So let the words of scripture stir your heart to worship: 

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.

Come Praise and Glorify Bob Kauflin and Tim Chester sung by Devon Kauflin from "The Gathering: Live from WorshipGod11" © 2011 Sovereign Grace Praise (BMI) ht...

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

Song: Everlasting God by Chris Tomlin Lyric Video by Camwin128 Made with Adobe Premiere Pro NOTE: I don't own any rights to this song nor did I make it! This...



CONFESSION AND ASSURANCE 

When we're reminded of God's character, that he is the one who brings salvation, we realise how quick we are to forget that. We begin to believe and act as if it is our work and merit that make us right with God. When we do that we take the cross for granted and fail to give God the glory and thanksgiving he deserves. So take a moment in the quiet of your heart to confess that to God now. Of the ways this week you have been resting on your own goodness and achievement. 

One of the joys of being in the church is that, when we forget God's truth, we can remind one another and encourage one another with it together. We can preach the gospel- the good news of what God has done for us in Jesus- again to one another. So let your heart be assured by the truth of the gospel today: 

For it is by grace we have been saved, through faith and this is not from ourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that none of us can boast. 

[Ephesians 2:8-9] 

SONG: Grace Alone (Dustin Kensrue)​: ​A song celebrating the grace shown to us in Christ. A reminder that it is only by grace we're saved.

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

Lyrics

I was an orphan lost at the fall
Running away when I'd hear your call
But Father, you worked your will

I had no righteousness of my own
I had no right to draw near your throne
But Father, you loved me still

And in love before you laid the world's foundation
You predestined to adopt me as your own
You have raised me so high u above my station
I'm a child of God by grace and grace alone

You left your home to seek out the lost
You knew the great and terrible cost
But Jesus, your face was set

I worked my fingers down to the bone
Nothing I did could ever atone
But Jesus, you paid my debt

By your blood I have redemption and salvation
Lord, you died that I might reap what you have sown
And you rose that I might be a new creation
I am born again by grace and grace alone

I was in darkness all of my life
I never knew the day from the night
But Spirit, you made me see

I swore I knew the way on my own
Head full of rocks, a heart made of stone
But Spirit, you moved in me

At your touch my sleeping spirit was awakened
On my darkened heart the light of Christ has shone
Called into a kingdom that cannot be shaken
Heaven's citizen by grace and grace alone

So I'll stand in faith by grace and grace alone
I will run the race by grace and grace alone
I will slay my sin by grace and grace alone
I will reach the end by grace and grace alone



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 Gospel of Mark- [Mk 3:31-35] 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 our series ‘The Gospel of Mark’. 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: Here is Love (Matt Redman)​:​ ​A reminder of the depth of love that has been shown to us as God sent his son to save us from our sin, this is the greatest demonstration of love.

Here Is Love lyrics by William Rees music by Robert Lowry performed by Matt Redman on "Hymns Ancient and Modern" (C) 2004 Sparrow Records/sixstepsrecords htt...


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

Get the Song: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/all-creatures-of-our-god-and-king-live/1300512803?i=1300513152 Free sheet music: http://sovereigngracemusic.o...

COMMITMENT READING 

Use the words of this prayer based on Romans 15 to ask for God’s help in welcoming and loving your brothers and sisters in Christ 

Heavenly Father, our great God of endurance and encouragement, we pray that you would grant us unity together in Christ. With one voice, united in Jesus, help us to glorify and praise you in our words and actions together. Empowered by your Spirit, may we welcome one another as you have welcomed us in Christ Amen

[Based on Romans 15:5-7] 

SONG: Hear the Call of the Kingdom (Stuart Townend & Keith Getty): ​A song which calls us to lift our eyes to God, and to go to all the world with his compassion.

Words and Music by Keith Getty, Stuart Townend Performed by Keith & Kristyn Getty



BENEDICTION 

Close your time of worship with this benediction: 

Finally, brothers and sisters rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.

[2 Cor 13:11] 

Peace be with you