Divine Love Bestows Freedom

The 7th Sunday of Easter May 29th, 2022

The sermon topic for today is Christian Freedom. The first reading from Acts tells the story of Paul’s experience in Philippi. The owners of a slave-girls were exploiting her and she had some emotional problems. Paul, realizing this, cured her on the spot. The authorities had Paul and Silas flogged and put into prison for this act of kindness. However, a major earthquake broke the prison doors, leaving Paul and Silas free to escape. Fearing the consequences for himself, the guard pulled out his sword, intending to commit suicide. Paul called out – telling him not to harm himself. Paul and Silas had been singing hymns and praying in their cell. The guard was impressed and converted to faith in Jesus on the spot.

The real slaves in this story were the slave owners. Their greed caused them to exploit another human being. The guard was also a slave to the authorities due to his fear of being punished. On the other hand, Paul and Silas were free because they restored the slave-girl to health and because imprisonment did not stop them from worshipping God. Real spiritual freedom comes from having Jesus as our lord. Slavery in its many forms is the result of idolatry.

WE GATHER TO WORSHIP

Prelude: “Pastorales”, Alex Rowley

Announcements

Gathering Hymn: “Rise Up, O Saints of God”

*Apostolic Greeting

Hymn of Praise

*Prayer of the Day

FIRST READING: Acts 16:16-34

SECOND READING: Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20-21

Choir Anthem: “Crown Him”, by Gregg Sewell, quoting “Diademata” by George J Elvey

Children’s Time

Gospel Acclamation and *GOSPEL: John 17:20-26

Sermon: “Divine Love Bestows Freedom” – Pastor Dan Severson

*Sermon Hymn: “Holy Spirit Ever Dwelling”

*Apostles Creed

Prayers and The Lord’s Prayer

*The Benediction

*Sending Hymn: ”Lead Me, Guide Me”

*DISMISSAL Postlude: “Fanfare”, by William Mathias