Order of Worship
Preparation for Worship
Prelude and Silent Prayer
Introit ~ “Come, Christians, Join to Sing”
* Hymn #208 ~ “O Come, All Ye Faithful”
Welcome and Announcements
Adoration of God
Call to Worship: Luke 1:26-33
* Hymn #203 ~ “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing”
* Children’s Choir Anthem ~ “Jesus is Born, Let the Earth Rejoice!”
Confession of Sin
* Reading of the Law: Deuteronomy 6:20-25
Assurance of Pardon
Affirmation of Faith: Westminster Shorter Catechism, Q&A 31-32
Q. 31. What is effective calling?
A. 31. Effective calling is the work of God’s Spirit, by which he convinces us of our sin and misery, enlightens our minds in the knowledge of Christ, and renews our wills, and so persuades and enables us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the gospel.
Q. 32. What benefits in this life are shared by those who are effectively called?
A. 32. In this life those who are effectively called share in justification, adoption and sanctification, and the further benefits in this life which accompany or flow from them.
* Hymn #214 ~ “Angels We Have Heard on High”
Means of Grace
Pastoral Prayer and Lord’s Prayer
Old Testament Reading: Psalm 42:1-5
New Testament Reading: Matthew 7:7-11
Sermon: “Arguing with God” (Psalm 143:1-12)
Hymn #219 ~ “All Praise to Thee, Eternal Lord”
Communion
Response and Blessing
* Doxology to the tune of “For All the Saints” #358
Praise ye the Lord, His mighty works acclaim:
His years are endless, yet is He the same
O sing His praise, give glory to His holy name:
Alleluia, Alleluia. Amen
* Blessing/Benediction
[* indicates to please stand]
Sermon Notes
“Arguing with God” (Psalm 143)
I. Introduction
II. A Thirsty Soul
A. David presents his case
B. Hopeful but still pressing
III. Application
A. Praying to God with arguments
B. It is not disrespectful to do so
Announcements
Today: Nursery for children birth through three during Sunday School and Worship.
Today: The “Worship Training Room” (across from kitchen) is available for young families (livestream available)
Communication from us? Please fill out a Communication Card (on back table)
Today: Advent Family Devotionals available
Wednesday: Bible Education Night, 6pm dinner, 6:30 singing, 6:45-7:30pm testimony and classes for all
Friday: Swing Dance, High School/Adults, 6:30-9:30pm in Fellowship Hall (beginners and pros)
Next Sunday: Children’s Pageant, 3pm, please bring Christmas cookies
December Dates: 12/20 Youth Gingerbread House Party (6th-12th), 12/25 Christmas Day Worship, 10am
Reminder: No food or drink in sanctuary
Pastoral Counseling? See Pastor Henry
Food Pantry: Food available for ERC families in kitchen
Next Week’s Sermon Text: Psalm 144:1-15