Seventeenth Sunday after the Festival of the Holy Trinity

also known as the Nineteenth Sunday of the Pentecost Season

October 04, 2020

Is It Really Christ’s Body & Blood?

“Why do you Lutherans put such an emphasis on the Lord’s Supper? Is it really Christ’s Body and Blood?” It’s a good question – and one I was recently some time ago by a person who belongs to another church, obviously one that isn’t Lutheran. I asked for a Bible and shared some portions of Scripture which speak about the Lord’s Supper and its importance in the lives of God’s people. She listened politely – and seemed intrigued by the couple of questions she asked. The conversation we had wasn’t that long, but afterward she said that she’d never heard the Lord’s Supper explained the way I just had done, and that I’d given her something “to think about.” I hope we have the opportunity to visit about it again some day.

But as I’ve thought about her question, I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s a good one for each of us to ask ourselves. “Why do We Lutherans put such an emphasis on the Lord’s Supper?” Why do we here at Grace Lutheran incorporate it into our worship services at least twice every month? Why does our Pastor bring the Lord’s Supper privately to members of the congregation who’ve missed one of those services and who request it during the week? Why do we spend so much time teaching the Doctrine of the Lord’s Supper in our confirmation classes, and mention it as often as we do in our sermons and Bible Classes and publications? The answer is both as involved as the many Bible passages that speak about the Lord’s Supper, and as simple as this one statement: “Because it is sacred.”

By God’s grace our Lutheran Church has been blessed with a proper understanding of what the Bible teaches about the Lord’s Supper. We recognize that through it: 1) we receive Christ’s forgiveness; 2) our faith is strengthened; 3) we come in contact with His true body and blood together with the bread and wine (sometimes referred to as the “vertical fellowship” between the believer and his/her Savior); 4) we are able to demonstrate our comprehensive unity of faith with our fellow communicants (the “horizontal fellowship” of this Sacrament); and 5) we publicly proclaim our faith in Christ’s death and resurrection for our salvation. And so, we do take the Lord’s Supper seriously….and we should! We take it seriously by including it regularly in our public worship services, and by urging those who desire to receive the Lord’s Supper to do so only after they have properly qualified themselves to receive it. This only comes following a comprehensive study and subsequent public commitment to all that the Scriptures teach in connection not only with the Lord’s Supper but also with the Bible’s other doctrines. This means we cannot offer the Lord’s Supper to any- and everyone (as many churches today do in their desire to be “inclusive”) – most notably, to Christians of other church bodies. We do this, not to offend others [though some might take it that way], but out of a genuine love for all the truths of God’s Word and for the sanctity of this Sacrament, as well as a love for anyone who might otherwise improperly receive it to his/her detriment. God expects those who commune together to be perfectly united in doctrine (I Corinthians 1: 10; 10:17) and thus committed to avoiding false teachers and their teachings (Romans 16:17; I John 4:1-3; II John 10,11). Communicants also must accept Christ’s “real presence” in the Sacrament and be able to properly examine themselves regarding their sins and what they believe prior to receiving the Lord’s Supper (I Corinthians 11:26-31). That’s why we can only offer the Lord’s Supper to those individuals who have properly examined themselves in the light of God’s Word and see themselves as sinners worthy of God’s wrath and rejection. Those who commune must also recognize that they will be receiving both the very body and blood of Christ (His “real presence”) in, with and under the bread and wine, and also the full forgiveness of all their sins for Jesus’ sake. In addition, they need to recognize that as they receive the Lord’s Supper with their fellow communicants, they are also affirming their doctrinal unity with Christ and His Church by committing themselves again to upholding all the truths that He has taught us in His holy Word.

We Lutheran-Christians do our best to regard the Sacrament as “sacred” and as “a Means of Grace” (one of the “tools” – along with the Word of God and the Sacrament of Baptism – by which God the Holy Spirit graciously works faith in our hearts and then sustains that faith in the true God). However, too many church bodies (generally, the “Reformed” churches) see it simply as an “ordinance” or command from Jesus that they must fulfill, as well as a memorial of bread and wine which “represents” the sacrifice of Christ for the world’s sins. Thus, they deny the “real presence” of Christ in the Lord’s Supper. Their reasons for rejecting what Scripture clearly teaches about the “real presence” are primarily two in number. First, they maintain that it isn’t reasonable or logical to believe that bread and wine can miraculously become Christ’s physical body and blood at the same time. For them the physical presence of the wine and bread in communion is sufficient “evidence” to convince them that where Scripture speaks of Christ’s body and blood in the Lord’s Supper it must be understood figuratively….not literally. (But God doesn’t want us to “make sense” of what He tells us; He expects us, in faith, to take Him entirely at His word.) Second, they maintain that Christ – according to His human nature – has to be seated at the right hand of God only….that He cannot be in two places at the same time, and that He can only be present everywhere in His divine nature. In essence they have tried to “logically” (and very improperly) as well as to functionally separate Christ’s two natures, even though Scripture and orthodox Christianity from its earliest days maintain correctly that the two natures (divine and human) are fully present in the one person, Christ Jesus, and that each nature fully shares in the attributes (characteristics) of the other. As the glorified Savior of the world, as both God and man in the one Christ, Jesus in His omnipresence (present everywhere) can certainly be at the right hand of God the Father and really present in the Lord’s Supper at the very same time…..and He definitely is! Simply put, (as is also the case with Baptism – which we discussed last week) the Reformed churches over-emphasize the “lesser role” of the recipient in the Lord’s Supper, all the while minimizing the Lord’s substantially greater and much more beneficial involvement in His Holy Meal.

Roman Catholicism, on the other hand maintains – also incorrectly – that in the Lord’s Supper, once these elements are consecrated (that is, when the appropriate words of Scripture are spoken over them by a priest), then the bread and wine cease to exist because they – supposedly – have been ‘transsubstantiated” into Christ’s body and blood, so that only these latter two elements (body and blood) remain. Catholicism goes further and even venerates (worships) any consecrated elements that remain following the celebration of the Lord’s Supper. In so doing, we might almost commend them for recognizing Christ’s physical presence in the Lord’s Supper, but we must point out their failure to recognize the reality that the bread and wine remain present in the Lord’s Supper as it is being celebrated. We also have no choice but to reject their misguided, subsequent worship of any remaining communion elements as if they are the physical “Christ.” Another abuse of Catholicism in connection with the Lord’s Supper is their erroneous belief that as the Sacrament is being celebrated, Christ is being re-sacrificed again for the sins of those receiving it…..but only for their sins committed between their last reception of Communion and their present reception. In other words, they do not teach that the assurance of all our sins being forgiven fully and freely is conveyed through the Lord’s Supper, but instead that an “installment plan”-type forgiveness (bit-by-bit) is offered. Another important point: in “re-sacrificing” Christ, they abuse Scripture’s assurance that Jesus “did this [sacrificed Himself] once for all when He offered up Himself” (Hebrews 7:27) In other words, His once for all sacrifice on the cross is sufficient!

Given the prevalence of these two divergent and false views regarding the Lord’s Supper (the Reformed’s “representation” view and the Catholic church’s teaching of “transubstantiation”), it is important for us – particularly for our personal faith – to review what Scripture actually teaches regarding the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper (also known, among other names, as the Sacrament of the Altar, and the Eucharist). Such knowledge not only can “reconfirm” our faith and strengthen our confidence in what God’s Word actually teaches, it can also better equip us for defending and explaining the doctrine of the Lord’s Supper and its significant spiritual benefits before others (including and guests and friends who might be among us) in the hope that they might desire its blessings enough to study God’s Word with us and, in time, become communicant members of our church. And so, this morning, because we want to do our best – God-enabling – to keep the Sacrament Sacred, we will ask ourselves, “Why do we Lutherans put such a strong emphasis on the Lord’s Supper?” ….. and we’ll answer that question – as we should – from Scripture alone.

Regarding, this morning’s Scripture lessons.…… In our Old Testament Lesson Moses describes for us a special “Fellowship Meal” with the LORD in which he and the elders of Israel participated. Please note the reference to the “blood of the covenant that the LORD has made.” While, obviously, the Lord’s Supper was some 1400 plus years away from being instituted, we can see similarities in this “fellowship” and the “forgiveness” that this event offered and the Lord’s Supper offers us today. Through this morning’s Epistle Lesson/Sermon Text Paul reminds us about what we receive in the Lord’s Supper, as well as what our responsibilities for worthy reception are. In today’s Gospel Lesson we have Matthew’s eyewitness account of our Savior’s institution of the Lord’s Supper. Finally, in our Children’s Lesson we’ll talk about how we can all find “Christ in Communion.”

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

As the head of the family should teach them in the simplest way to those in his household.

THE INSTITUTION OF HOLY COMMUNION

First: What is the sacrament of Holy Communion?

It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ together with the bread and wine, instituted by Christ for us Christians to eat and to drink.

Where is this written?

The holy Evangelists Matthew, Mark, Luke and the Apostle Paul tell us; The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it, gave it to his disciples and said, “Take and eat. This is my body, which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, after supper he took the cup, gave thanks, gave it to them and said, “Drink from it, all of you. This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.”

THE BLESSINGS OF HOLY COMMUNION

Second: What blessing do we receive through this eating and drinking?

That is shown us by these words, “Given and poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins.”

Through these works we receive forgiveness of sins, life and salvation in this sacrament.

For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.

THE POWER OF HOLY COMMUNION

Third: How can eating and drinking do such great things?

It is certainly not the eating and drinking that does such things, but the words, “Given and poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins.” These words are the main thing in this sacrament, along with the eating and drinking. And whoever believes these words has what they plainly say, the forgiveness of sins.

THE RECEPTION OF HOLY COMMUNION

Fourth: Who, then, is properly prepared to receive this sacrament?

Fasting and other outward preparations may serve a good purpose, but he is properly prepared who believes these works, “Given and poured out for you for the forgiveness of sins.” But whoever does not believe these words or doubts them is not prepared, because the words ”for you” require nothing but hearts that believe.

Silent Prayer upon entering the sanctuary

Pre-service music

We Praise Our God

The Introduction and Invitation To Worship

following which, the Congregation will rise for the invocation

The Invocation

Pastor We begin this service

Congregation In the name of the Father

P: Who gave us our lives through His almighty power.

C: And of the Son

P: Who redeemed our lives with His precious blood.

C: And of the Holy Spirit

P: Who gave us eternal life through faith in Christ Jesus.

C: Amen.

The Opening Prayer

In the name of God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.

I thank You, my heavenly Father, + through Jesus Christ, Your dear Son, + for keeping me this night from all harm and danger. + Keep me this day also, from sin and every evil. + That all my doings and life may please You. + Into Your hands I commend my body, and soul, and all things. + Let Your holy angel be with me, + that the wicked foe may have no power over me. + Amen.

The Opening Hymn “Oh, Bless the Lord My Soul”

1 O bless the Lord, my soul! Let all within me join

And aid my tongue to bless His name Whose favors are divine.

2 O bless the Lord, my soul, Nor let His mercies lie

Forgotten in unthankfulness And without praises die!

3 ‘Tis He forgives thy sins; ‘Tis He relieves thy pain;

‘Tis He that heals thy sicknesses And makes thee young again.

4 He crowns thy life with love When ransomed from the grave;

He that redeemed my soul from hell Hath sov’reign pow’r to save.

5 He fills the poor with good; He gives the suff’rers rest.

The Lord hath judgments for the proud And justice for th’oppressed.

6 His wondrous works and ways He made by Moses known,

But sent the world His truth and grace By His beloved Son. Amen

After which the Congregation will rise

We Make Confession Of Our Sins To God

Pastor God, our Heavenly Father, invites us to come into His presence and to worship Him with humble and penitent hearts. Therefore, let us now turn to Him, acknowledging our sinfulness and seeking His forgiveness for all our sins.

Congregation Holy and merciful Father, I confess that I am by nature sinful and that I have disobeyed You in my thoughts, words, and actions; I have done what is evil in Your sight and have failed to do what is good. For this I know that I deserve Your punishment, both now and for eternity. But I am truly sorry for all my sins and trusting in the perfect life and innocent death of my Savior, Jesus Christ, I plead: God have mercy on me, a sinner.

(Sung) Lord have mercy on us.

Christ have mercy on us.

Lord have mercy on us.

Pastor Our gracious Lord and Master has shown us His mercy: He has given His one and only Son to save us from all our sins. And now, having humbly and sincerely confessed your sins before Almighty God, be strengthened in your faith, mindful that our Lord is not willing that anyone should perish eternally, but that everyone should come to repentance, turning from their evil ways and receiving from Him everlasting life. God has commanded His ministers to declare His forgiveness of sins to all who are penitent. Therefore, addressing you as a called servant of Christ, and according to His command and under His authority, I forgive you all your sins in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

May the peace of God rest upon all of you. Amen.

(Sung) Glory be to God on high. And on earth peace good will toward me.

We praise You. We thank You. We worship You.

We glorify You. We give thanks to You for Your great glory.

O Lord God, Heavenly King, God the Father Almighty.

O Lord, the only begotten Son, Jesus Christ.

O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father.

You take away the sin of the world. Have mercy on us.

You take away the sin of the world. Receive our prayer.

You sit at the right hand of God the Father, Have mercy on us.

For You only are holy. You only are the Lord.

You only, O Christ, with the Holy Spirit

Are most high in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

The Psalm for this Morning Psalm 32

How blessed is the person whose rebellion is forgiven, + whose sin is covered. + How blessed is the person whose guilt the Lord does not charge against him, + in whose spirit there is no deceit.

When I kept silent, + my bones wasted away as I groaned all day long. + For day and night your hand was heavy on me. + My moisture was dried up by the droughts of summer. + I acknowledged my sin to You, and I did not cover up my guilt. + I said, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord,” + and You forgave the guilt of my sin. + Because of this, let everyone who receives favor pray to You + at a time when You may be found. + Surely when the mighty waters overflow, they will not reach him.

You are my hiding place. + You will protect me from distress. + You will surround me with shouts of deliverance. +

I will make you wise. + I will instruct you in the way that you should go. + I will guide you, keeping My eye on you. + 9 Do not be like a horse or a mule, which has no understanding. + Its mouth must be controlled by a bit and bridle, + or else it will not come to you. + Many are the sorrows of the wicked, + but mercy will surround those who trust in the Lord. + Rejoice in the Lord and celebrate, all you righteous, + and shout joyfully, all you upright in heart.

after which, the Congregation will be seated as

We Give Our Attention To God’s Word

The Old Testament Lesson Exodus 24:1-11

Then the Lord said to Moses, “Come up to the Lord, you and Aaron, along with Nadab and Abihu and seventy of the elders of Israel, and worship me from a distance. 2 Only Moses is allowed to come near the Lord, but the others are not to come near, and the people are not to go up with him.”

3 Moses came and reported to the people all the words of the Lord and all the ordinances. Then all the people answered with one voice and said, “All the words which the Lord has spoken we will do.” 4 Moses wrote down all the words of the Lord.

He got up early in the morning and built an altar at the foot of the mountain. He set up twelve memorial stones for the twelve tribes of Israel. 5 He sent young Israelite men, who offered whole burnt offerings and sacrificed fellowship offerings of cattle to the Lord. 6 Moses took half of the blood and put it in bowls, and he splashed half of the blood on the altar. 7 He took the Book of the Covenant and read it out loud to the people and they said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do. We will obey.” 8 Moses took the blood and splashed it on the people. He said, “Look, here is the blood of the covenant, which the Lord made with you by means of all these words.”

9 Then Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel went up. 10 They saw the God of Israel. Under his feet they saw what looked like a pavement of sapphire[a] as clear as the sky. 11 The Lord did not lay his hand on the dignitaries of the people of Israel. They gazed at God, and they ate and drank.

The Epistle Lesson I Corinthians 11:23-29

23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night when he was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way, after the meal, he also took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new testament in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

27 Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the Lord’s body and blood. 28 Instead, let a person examine himself and after doing so, let him eat of the bread and drink from the cup. 29 For if anyone eats and drinks in an unworthy way because he does not recognize the Lord’s body, he eats and drinks judgment on himself.

after which, out of respect for the words of our Savior, the Congregation will rise for

The Gospel Lesson Matthew 26:17-29

17 On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?” 18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him the Teacher says, ‘My time is near. I will observe the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” 19 The disciples did as Jesus commanded them and prepared the Passover.

20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve. 21 As they were eating, he said, “Amen I tell you: One of you will betray me.” 22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after another, “Surely, not I, Lord?” 23 He replied, “The one who dipped his hand in the bowl with me will betray me. 24 The Son of Man is going just as it is written about him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would be better for that man if he had not been born.” 25 Judas, who betrayed him, replied, “Surely, not I, Rabbi?” He said to him, “Yes, you are the one.”

26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to the disciples. He said, “Take, eat, this is my body.” 27 Then he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it all of you, 28 for this is my blood of the new[c] testament,[d] which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 I tell you that I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” 30 After they sang a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

The Nicene Creed

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of His Father before all worlds, God of God, Light of Light. Very God of Very God. Begotten, not made. Being of one substance with the Father, By Whom all things were made; Who for us men and for our salvation, came down from heaven And was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary And was made man; And was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried; And the third day He rose again according to the Scriptures; And ascended into heaven, And sitteth on the right hand of the Father; And He shall come again with glory, to judge both the quick and the dead; Whose Kingdom shall have no end. And I believe in the Holy Ghost, The Lord and Giver of Life, Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son, Who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified, Who spake by the Prophets. And I believe one holy Christian and Apostolic Church. I acknowledge one Baptism for the remission of sins, And I look for the resurrection of the dead, And the life of the world to come. Amen.

After which the Congregation will be seated for

The Children’s Lesson I Corinthians 11:26

26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.

Finding Christ in Communion

The Sermon Hymn “Lord Jesus Christ, You Have Prepared”

1 Lord Jesus Christ, You have prepared this feast for our salvation;

it is Your body and Your blood, and at Your invitation

as weary souls, with sin oppressed, we come to You for needed rest,

for comfort, and for pardon.

4 We eat this bread and drink this cup, Your precious Word believing

that Your true body and Your blood our lips are here receiving.

This Word remains forever true, all things are possible with You,

for You are Lord Almighty.

5 Though reason cannot understand, yet faith this truth embraces:

Your body, Lord, is even now at once in many places.

I leave to You how this can be; Your Word alone suffices me;

I trust its truth unfailing.

7 Grant that we worthily receive Your supper, Lord, our Savior,

and, truly grieving for our sins, may prove by our behavior

that we are thankful for Your grace and day by day may run our race,

in holiness increasing.

8 For Your consoling supper, Lord, be praised throughout all ages!

Preserve it, for in every place the world against it rages.

Grant that this sacrament may be a blessed comfort unto me

when living and when dying. Amen.

after which, the Congregation will REMAIN SEATED

The Greeting

Grace and peace be yours in abundance, through the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, our Lord. May the God of peace fill you with all joy in believing! Amen.

Today’s Sermon Text I Corinthians 11:23-29

(today’s Epistle Lesson)

Is This Really Christ’s Body and Blood?

following the Sermon, the Congregation will rise for the post-sermon blessing

Pastor May our Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God our Father, Who loved us and by His grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, now encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word. Amen.

Congregation (Sung)

Create in me a clean heart O God, and renew a right spirit within me.

Cast me not away from Your presence and take not Your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me with Your free Spirit.

after which the Congregation will be seated

We Offer Our Gifts to the Lord

Our Offerings of Love to our Lord

Because we aren’t able to pass an offering plate today during today’s worship

service those in attendance may leave their offerings in the offering plates

by the exit door at the close of our service today.

For those watching today’s service, we offer you the following suggestions for providing God with Your thank-offerings through our ministry:

1) You can send a check (no cash) in the mail to the church address

(415 N. 6^th Place, Lowell, AR 72745)

2) You can go online to our website (www.gracelutherannwa.com)

and use the giving option there.

At the Pastor’s invitation, the Congregation will rise as

We Offer Our Prayers to the Lord

The Prayers of the Church

A Prayer of Intercession on behalf of Bill Krizsan, who this week completed

a series of treatments for bladder cancer….that God might remove the cancer and bless Him with a successful recovery;

and

A prayer of Intercession on behalf of Mary Pudas, who remains hospitalized at Mercy Hospital due to complications from having contracted the Corona Virus;

plus

A Prayer of Thanksgiving on behalf of Micah and Rachel Galvan, whose first wedding

anniversary is this coming Tuesday;

and

A Prayer of Thanksgiving on behalf of Mary and Dan Beck, who will be celebrating

their wedding anniversary is this coming Friday.

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father Who art in heaven + Hallowed be Thy name. + Thy Kingdom come. + Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. + Give us this day our daily bread. + And forgive us our trespasses + as we forgive those who trespass against us. + And lead us not into temptation, + but deliver us from evil. + For Thine is the kingdom + And the power + and the glory + forever and ever. Amen.

We Celebrate the Lord’s Supper

P: The Lord be with you.

C: (Sung) And also with you

P: Lift up your hearts

C: (Sung) We lift them up to the Lord

P: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God

C: (Sung) It is right to give Him thanks and praise

P: It is truly good and right that we should at all times and in all places give You thanks, O Lord, Holy Father, almighty, everlasting God, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Who has promised that wherever two or three are gathered together in His name, there He is in the midst of them, until the day of His return in glory. Therefore, with angels and archangel, and all the company of heaven, we praise Your holy name and join their glorious song:

(Sung) Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of heav’nly hosts

Heaven and earth are full of Your glory

Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest

Blessed is He. Blessed is He.

Blessed is He Who comes in the name of the Lord.

Hosanna, Hosanna, Hosanna in the highest

The Words of Institution

The Peace

P: The peace of the Lord be with you always

C: (Sung) Amen.

(Sung) O Christ, Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world.

Have mercy on us.

O Christ, Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world.

Have mercy on us.

O Christ, Lamb of God, You take away the sin of the world.

Grant us Your peace. Amen.

The Exhortation Regarding the Lord’s Supper (Pastor)

The First Distribution Hymn “Lord, To You I Make Confession”

1 Lord, to You I make confession: I have sinned and gone astray,

I have multiplied transgression, Chosen for myself my way.

Led by You to see my errors, Lord, I tremble at Your terrors.

2 Yet, though conscience’ voice appall me, Father, I will seek Your face;

Though Your child I dare not call me, Yet receive me in Your grace.

Do not for my sins forsake me; Let Your wrath not overtake me.

3 For Your Son has suffered for me, Giv’n Himself to rescue me,

Died to save me and restore me, Reconciled and set me free.

Jesus’ cross alone can vanquish These dark fears and soothe this anguish.

4 Lord, on You I cast my burden– Sink it in the deepest sea!

Let me know Your gracious pardon, Cleanse me from iniquity.

Let Your Spirit leave me never; Make me only Yours forever.

The Second Distribution Hymn “Your Table I Approach”

1 Your table I approach; Dear Savior, hear my prayer.

Let not an unrepentant heart Prove hurtful to me there.

2 Lord, I confess my sins And mourn their wretched bands;

A contrite heart is sure to find Forgiveness at Your hands.

3 Your body and Your blood, Once slain and shed for me,

Are taken at Your table, Lord, In blest reality.

4 Search not how this takes place, This wondrous mystery;

God can accomplish vastly more Than what we think could be.

5 O grant, most blessed Lord, That earth and hell combined

May not about this sacrament Raise doubt within my mind.

6 Oh, may I never fail To thank You day and night

For Your true body and true blood, O God, my peace and light.

We Leave With The Lord’s Blessing

The Closing Prayer

The Benediction

The LORD bless you and keep you.

The LORD make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you.

The LORD look with favor upon you, and give you His peace. Amen.

The Closing Hymn “Now the Hour of Worship O’er”

Now, the hour of worship o’er, Teaching, hearing, praying, singing,

Let us gladly God adore, For His Word our praises bringing;

For the rich repast He gave us Bless the Lord, who deigned to save us.

Now the blessing cheers our heart, By His grace to us extended.

Let us joyfully depart; Be our souls to God commended.

May His Spirit ever guide us And with all good gifts provide us!

Bless our going out, we pray, Bless our entrance in like measure;

Bless our bread, O Lord, each day, Bless our toil, our rest, our pleasure;

Bless us when we reach death’s portal, Bless us then with life immortal. Amen.

Post-service prayer, Announcements, Post-service music

Announcements

Last Week at Grace Lutheran Worship Attendance: 53 Online views: 16

Sunday School Attendance: 4 Adult Bible Class: 20 (6 online views) Tues Bible Class: 14

Wednesday Evening Bible Class attendance: Men’s study: 5 Women’s Study: 7

Budgetary Fund: $1482

Birthdays and Anniversary This Coming Week: Oct 04 – Debbie Terrian;

Oct 05 – Sadie Hahn; Oct 05 – Gabby Roe; Oct 06 – Rachel & Micah Galvan;

Oct 08 – Tom Otto; Oct 09 – Laura Layton; Oct 09 – Dan and Mary Beck;

This Coming Week at Grace Lutheran Church

Today Morning Worship at 9:30 a.m including the Lord’s Supper

Sunday School and Bible Class – begins 15 minutes after worship concludes

Youth Confirmation, 12:00-1:15 p.m.

Tuesday Morning Bible Study, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday Men’s and Women’s Bible Studies, 6-7 p.m.

Saturday Morning Outreach Visits, 10:00 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship, 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School/Bible Class – 15 minutes after Youth Confirmation, 12:00pm

Serving Us Next Sunday Elders: John Johnson, Steve Stone, Tim Pfortmiller

Ushers: Kent Mayer, John Wambold, Jim Winnat Altar Guild: Tammy Schwartz, Marilyn Outlaw

Bible Class Today our adult class continues its general study called “Lessons Learned From Believers of the Past.” This morning, we’re studying especially I Samuel 24. The theme for our lesson is “Loving Your Enemies.”

Lesson Seven: Loving Your Enemy

unconditional forgiveness and love in the lives of God’s children

Scripture I Samuel 24:1-22; Matthew 5:43-48; Jude 8-9; Matthew 18:20-35; Romans 12:19

Introduction

Have you ever had a “delicious” occasion in which to gain a measure of revenge on someone who had severely wronged you? How did you handle it?

Has anyone ever tried to talk you into getting “even” with someone?

Why is it so hard to forgive people who wrong you?

Looking at God’s Word

V.1 What do verses 1 & 2 tell you about the lifestyle to which David had been “reduced” by Saul? Do you ever feel like you’ve been driven into the “desert” by someone/somebodies with whom you must deal?

2 “three thousand chosen men” – the “green berets” or “Navy Seals” of Saul’s army…..

V.3 What “excuse” might David have used to justify an attack on Saul?

4 Talk about stealth!!!

V.5 Would your conscience have bothered you in this context?

V.6 Notice how David describes Saul, who had vowed death to him. (In subsequent verses – 9 to 15 – there are other terms with which David addresses/describes Saul) What does this say about David’s character and attitude?

V.8 Is this chutzpah? Insanity? Or…..?

V.9-15 Summarize David’s “defense”/”justification” in your own words.

9 What is an obvious “problem” that Saul has in connection with this verse? Do you occasionally have this problem too? What effect does it often have on relationships? Why do we allow ourselves to be “sucked in” to the vortex of gossip?

14 Why would David compare himself to a “dead dog” and a “flea”?

15 A “repeat” and expansion of the statement in verse 12 – What’s David’s point here for Saul? What’s the Holy Spirit’s lesson to us?

Are you as content as David seems to be to simply let God effect His will, His way, and in His time? Or, are you the kind of person who feels the urge to “help God out” and take matters into your own hands?

V.16-17 Do you think Saul is sincerely repentant here? Does David think he is?

How can you tell if someone is sincere in being repentant and wanting to turn over a new leaf?

By your own standards, how well would you pass your “sincerity test”?

18 To what “greater” principle of live is Saul admitting…..a principle we also need to acknowledge on a daily basis”? (see Ephesians 1:9; Genesis 50:20)

19-20 And to what two things is Saul admitting in these verses?

22 Would you have made this promise? Why, or why not? (Incidentally, David kept the promise.)

Conforming our Lives to His Word and Will

If you had been David, what would you have probably done? Why?

If you had been Saul, what would you have done? Why?

How do you deal with conflict with others?

What’s your attitude toward those in your life whom the Lord has “anointed” over you? (Governing authorities [corrupt as well as honest]? Parents? Spiritual leaders? Employers? Spouse?)

In your life do you have a “Saul” who causes you considerable trouble and grief? What would happen if you treated this “Saul” they way that David treated his?

A closing “Quiz”

I think David….
a) missed a good opportunity to get even
b) let his faith rule his heart and head
c) showed amazing self-restraint
d) let his friends talk him out of doing what needed to be done
e) other

David finish Saul off because…..
a) he felt sorry for Saul
b) he lost his nerve
c) he still respected Saul as king
c) he didn’t want to sin against God by harming the Lord’s anointed
d) he didn’t want to have a guilty conscience
What seem to be David’s “rules” for a fair fight?
a) no cowardly back-stabbing
b) leave vengeance to the Lord
c) fight only when you know you can win
d) don’t back down from anyone

Why did Saul cry?
a) he was embarrassed and humbled and felt bad about how badly he treated David
b) he was afraid David would change his mind
c) he was relieved to have survived such a close brush with death
d) he was repentant

In what way did David reflect the character of God in this story?
a) fair b) righteous c) peaceful
d) powerful e) merciful

I Samuel 24:1-22

When Saul had returned from pursuing the Philistines, he was told, “Here’s some news. David is in the Wilderness of En Gedi.” 2 Then Saul took three thousand specially chosen men from all Israel and went to hunt for David and his men along the rocky slopes of the wild goats. 3 Saul came to some sheep pens that were along that route. Saul went into a cave that was there to relieve himself. At that time David and his men were far back in the interior of the cave. 4 David’s men said to him, “Look, this is the day the Lord told you about when he said, ‘I will deliver your enemy into your hand, and you will do to him whatever seems good to you.’” So David got up and cut off the edge of Saul’s robe without being noticed. 5 Afterward, David had a guilty conscience, because he had cut off the edge of Saul’s robe. 6 He said to his men, “May I be cursed if I do something like this to my master, who is the Lord’s anointed—that I would stretch out my hand against him, since he is the Lord’s anointed.” 7 With these words David restrained his men and did not allow them to attack Saul. Saul got up, left the cave, and went on his way. 8 David got up and followed him out of the cave and shouted to him, “My lord the king!”

When Saul looked back at him, David bowed facedown to the ground to show respect. 9 David said to Saul, “Why do you listen to the words of people who say, ‘Watch out! David is seeking to harm you’? 10 This very day you have seen with your own eyes how the Lord delivered you into my hand in the cave. Some urged me to kill you, but I spared you, because I said, ‘I will not stretch out my hand against my master, because he is the Lord’s anointed.’ 11 Take a look at this! My father, take a good look at the piece of your robe that is here in my hand. Because I cut off the edge of your robe but did not kill you, you can be sure that I do not have any evil intent and I am not rebelling. I have not sinned against you, even though you keep hunting for me to take my life. 12 May the Lord judge between you and me, and may the Lord avenge me on you, but my hand will not be against you. 13 As the ancient proverb says, ‘Out of the wicked come wicked deeds,’ but my hand will not be against you. 14 Against whom has the king of Israel come out? What are you pursuing? A dead dog? A flea? 15 May the Lord, therefore, be the judge who renders a verdict between you and me. May he examine my case, plead my cause, and deliver me out of your hand.” 16 When David had finished speaking these words, Saul responded, “Is that your voice, David, my son?” Saul broke down and wept. 17 He said to David, “You are more righteous than I, for you have treated me well, but I have treated you badly. 18 You have made it clear today how you have been good to me, because when the Lord delivered me into your hand, you did not kill me. 19 If a man finds his enemy, will he let him go away unharmed? May the Lord reward you with good for what you have done for me today. 20 Now I know without a doubt that you will become king, and that the kingship over Israel will be established in your hand. 21 So swear to me now by the Lord that you will not cut off my descendants after me and that you will not destroy my name from my father’s house.” 22 David promised this to Saul with an oath. Saul went back home, but David and his men went up to the stronghold.

Matthew 5:43-48

43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[j] and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 so that you may be children of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun to rise on the evil and the good and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 Indeed if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Even tax collectors do that, don’t they? 47 If you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even the unbelievers do that? 48 So then, be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”

Jude 8-9 8 Yet, in the very same way, these dreamers are defiling the flesh, despising authority, and blaspheming glorious ones. 9 But when the archangel Michael was disputing with the Devil and arguing about the body of Moses, he did not dare to bring a blasphemous condemnation against him. Instead he said, “The Lord rebuke you!”

Romans 12:19 9 Do not just pretend to love others. Hate what is evil. Cling to what is good.

Matthew 18:15-35 15 “If your brother sins against you, go and show him his sin just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have regained your brother. 16 But if he will not listen, take one or two others along with you, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ 17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And, if he refuses to listen even to the church, then treat him as an unbeliever or a tax collector. 18 Amen I tell you: Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Amen I tell you again: If two of you on earth agree to ask for anything, it will be done for them by my Father who is in heaven. 20 In fact where two or three have gathered together in my name, there I am among them.”

21 Then Peter came up and asked Jesus, “Lord, how many times must I forgive my brother when he sins against me? As many as seven times?” 22 Jesus said to him, “Not seven times, but I tell you as many as seventy-seven times. 23 For this reason the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 When he began to settle them, a man who owed him ten thousand talents was brought to him. 25 Because the man was not able to pay the debt, his master ordered that he be sold, along with his wife, children, and all that he owned to repay the debt. 26 Then the servant fell down on his knees in front of him, saying, ‘Master, be patient with me, and I will pay you everything!’ 27 The master of that servant had pity on him, released him, and forgave him the debt. 28 “But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him one hundred denarii. He grabbed him and began choking him, saying, ‘Pay me what you owe!’ 29 “So his fellow servant fell down and begged him, saying, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back!’ 30 But he refused. Instead he went off and threw the man into prison until he could pay back what he owed. 31 “When his fellow servants saw what had happened, they were very distressed. They went and reported to their master everything that had taken place. 32 “Then his master called him in and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt when you begged me to. 33 Should you not have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had mercy on you?’ 34 His master was angry and handed him over to the jailers until he could pay back everything he owed.

35 “This is what my heavenly Father will also do to you unless each one of you forgives his brother from his heart.”

Is It Really Christ’s Body & Blood?

Lesson Seven: Loving Your Enemy

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