Prelude
Welcome
Call to Worship
One: In resurrection faith, we join together —
All: called by Christ from our many places and histories.
One: In resurrection faith, we join together—
All: united in Christ, to seek his purpose.
One: In resurrection faith, we join together —
All: to share the work of proclaiming Christ’s good news.
Opening Hymn
Be Thou My Vision UMH 451
Prayer of Confession
Risen Lord,
In the silence of our hearts, we confess the weight of our distractions and shortcomings. We acknowledge our tendency to lose sight of your purpose and to prioritize the trivial over the meaningful. Help us find solace in this moment of silent reflection as we seek your forgiveness and guidance.
[Pause for Silent Prayer...]
We confess we're overwhelmed by the work in your world. We've lost focus, stuck in small details to avoid admitting we're not moving forward. We've made divisions, ignoring unity. We've been cautious with our words, avoiding truth to keep peace. We've strayed from your core message, clinging to expectations. Forgive us for self-serving words that don't reflect your message. Forgive us for valuing our past over your future. Help us embrace your life, which uplifts, unifies, and overcomes. Breathe your life into us, so we may reflect your glory.
Amen.
Words of Assurance
Whatever the world may say about your worth, know this: You are cherished by Christ. Walk confidently in his resurrection power, where love triumphs over all. Know that your sins are forgiven.
Glory to the Resurrected Christ!
Passing of the Peace
First Reading:
Psalm 98:1-5
Second Reading:
Acts 18:1-4, 1 Cor. 1:10-18
Sermon:
Unity in the Cross by Pastor Kevin Rutledge
Hymn of Response
In Christ There Is No East or West UMH 548
Tithes and Offerings
Offertory Response
Praise God, from Whom All Blessings Flow UMH 95
Offertory Prayer
Gracious God, as we offer our gifts today, we reflect on the wisdom in the words from John’s gospel. In this imagery, we recognize our role as branches, connected to you, the source of our strength and vitality. Help us stay rooted in your love, producing fruit that brings glory to your name. May these gifts signify our commitment to abide in your teachings and work joyfully in response to your love. In the name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.
Pastoral Prayer and Lord's Prayer
Announcements
Closing Hymn
Lift High the Cross UMH 159
Benediction
Said Each Week as A Communal Prayer:
Send to us all the people who feel unwanted and unloved in other places, and if they can't come to us, send us to them.
Postlude
This Week's Reading Plan
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Reading: |
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Monday
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An Appeal for Unity: 1 Corinthians 1:10-18
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Tuesday
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Paul Proclaims the Word: Acts 18:5-11
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Wednesday
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Dragged before Gallio: Acts 18:12-17
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Thursday
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Paul Leaves Corinth: Acts 18:18-23
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Friday
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God is the Source of Life: 1 Corinthians 1:19-31
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Saturday
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Eating the Lord's Supper: 1 Corinthians 11:17-26
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Sunday
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The Greatest of These Is Love: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13
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Reflections and Caring Conversations
Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.
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Day 1: Unity in Christ
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:10-17
Devotional: As Paul appeals to the Corinthians to agree with one another and to be perfectly united in mind and thought, we too are called to lay aside our differences and embrace the unity that we have in Christ. Our baptism unites us, regardless of who led us to faith. Today, let's reflect on the ways we can strengthen our bonds within the body of Christ, focusing on our shared faith rather than our differing leaders or denominations.
Prayer Focus: Ask God to help you see past the labels and divisions within the Christian community and to foster unity based on the common ground you share in Jesus Christ.
Day 2: The Mosaic of Fellowship
Bible Reading: Romans 12:4-5
Devotional: Just as our bodies have many parts, each with a unique function, so it is with Christ's body, the church. We are many members but one body, and each of us belongs to one another. Consider today how the diversity of gifts and perspectives within your church community can enhance your collective worship and service to God.
Prayer Focus: Thank God for the diversity within your church and pray for guidance on how you can contribute to the body of Christ with your unique gifts and talents.
Day 3: Love as the Bond of Perfection
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:12-14
Devotional: As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, we are instructed to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Above all, we are to put on love, which binds us all together in perfect unity. Meditate on how you can demonstrate these virtues in your interactions with fellow believers, especially those with whom you might disagree.
Prayer Focus: Pray for an outpouring of love in your heart, that you may see and treat others with the grace and patience that Christ shows you.
Day 4: Embracing Liberty in Non-Essentials
Bible Reading: Romans 14:1-4
Devotional: In matters of personal conviction that do not compromise our core faith, we are encouraged to welcome those who may be weak in faith without quarreling over disputable matters. Reflect on the non-essential beliefs or practices that may differ among believers and how you can maintain fellowship without judgment or contempt.
Prayer Focus: Ask God to help you discern between essential and non-essential matters and to give you the strength to accept others in love, just as Christ has accepted you.
Day 5: Transcending Division with Peace and Love
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6
Devotional: As we are urged to live a life worthy of our calling, with all humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another in love, let us make every effort to maintain the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as we were called to one hope. Let this truth guide your interactions and help heal divisions within the Christian community.
Prayer Focus: Pray for the peace of Christ to reign in your heart and in your church, that you may be an instrument of unity and reconciliation in a world that desperately needs the love of Jesus.