Opening Hymn: “Amazing Grace”
Pastor: Good morning, brothers and sisters! Welcome to our Lutheran Church service today, where we come together to celebrate and embrace God’s boundless love. As we gather in His presence, let us begin by centering our hearts and minds on the Word of God. Please turn your Bibles to the book of John, chapter 3, verse 16.
Scripture Reading: John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
Pastor: Let us take a moment to reflect on the depth of this powerful verse. God’s love for us is immeasurable. He gave His only Son, Jesus Christ, as a sacrifice to save us from eternal separation from Him. Through faith in Jesus, we are granted eternal life, and our lives are transformed by His redeeming grace.
Prayer of Invocation:
Pastor: Gracious and loving God, we gather in Your presence today, humbled by Your immeasurable love for us. As we meditate on John 3:16, open our hearts to receive the message of salvation. Renew our faith, Lord, and help us to live in the light of Your love. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Hymn of Praise: “How Great Thou Art”
Sermon:
Pastor: Today, we delve into the depths of God’s love, as revealed in John 3:16. Our heavenly Father’s love for us knows no bounds. He sent His Son into the world to bring salvation to all who believe. This profound act of sacrificial love demonstrates God’s desire for a restored relationship with His creation.
We are reminded of our need for redemption, as sin has separated us from God. Yet, through faith in Jesus, we receive the gift of eternal life. This gift is freely offered to all, regardless of our past mistakes or shortcomings. It is through faith that we accept this gift and experience God’s transforming love in our lives.
The message of John 3:16 is not only about God’s love for individuals but also for the entire world. God’s love encompasses every nation, every race, and every person. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody this love, sharing the good news with others and extending God’s grace to all those we encounter.
Hymn of Response: “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”
Prayers of the Faithful:
Pastor: Let us now bring our prayers before the Lord, as we intercede for the world, the Church, and those in need.
Response: Lord, hear our prayer.
(Allow time for silent reflection and personal prayers)
The Lord’s Prayer:
All: 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, the power, and the glory forever. Amen.
Benediction:
Pastor: As we depart from this gathering, may the love of God, as revealed in John 3:16, go with us. May we be instruments of His love and grace in the world, shining His light into the darkness and sharing the message of salvation with all. May His peace and joy fill our hearts now and forevermore. Amen.
Closing Hymn: “Blest Be the Tie That Binds”