CALL TO CONFESSION

1 John 2:15-16

Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Merciful Lord, you have chosen us in Christ to belong to you, set apart from all others in this universe to worship you as our Savior. Left to ourselves, we would still be your enemies, strangers to your love and compassion. Thank you for rescuing us. Yet, Father, we continue to sin against you day after day. We are strongly attached to this world and would rather linger and enjoy the simple delights that it offers than flee from it into your presence and love. Lord, you know all of our sinful innermost thoughts and desires. Forgive us, we pray. 

And yet in your mercy and kindness, Father, you've given us a new birth in spite of our sin and rebellion. Part of us longs to be holy and sinless, but there is much in us that still cherishes our sin and clings to it. Help us to hate our sin and run from it. Open our eyes and help us to see how offensive our sin is to you, and how damaging it is to us. When we are dazzled by the alluring temptation of sin, teach us that you are the only feast that satisfies our souls deeply and permanently. Fill us with awe and wonder that you give us the radiant robes of your Son’s perfection to wear. Thank you that you have begun a good work in us that nothing can stop, and that one day we will stand before you in the bliss of sinless perfection as Christ’s beautiful bride. We give thanks for this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Take a few moments to personally confess your sins to the Lord.”

ASSURANCE OF PARDON

“Hear these words of comfort and assurance.” 

Ephesians 1:7-10

7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, 8 which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight 9 making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ 10 as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.

APPLICATION AND REFLECTION

In light of today's message....

• What did I learn about the gospel?
• How can I apply what I learned about the gospel to my life?
• With whom can I share the gospel this week?