God liberates the people of Israel out of slavery in Egypt and establishes them as his own kingdom, and calls it good. But even though the Christian church of Paul's day lives under the tyrannical rule of the Roman Empire, Paul calls on God's people to give thanks for their overlords, because it is good.
This counter-intuitive giving of thanks is only possible if God is in control of both political circumstances, and if that sovereign God is fundamentally good, using all circumstances to bring about the salvation of his people.
Readings and sermon were delivered by Pastor Aaron Mueller.
Order of service:
Readings:
- Psalm reading is from Psalm 67
- Old Testament reading is from Deuteronomy 8:1–10
- Epistle reading is from 1 Timothy 2:1–4
- Holy Gospel is from Luke 17:11–19
Hymns:
- Sing to the Lord of Harvest
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Text: John S. B. Monsell
Tune: Johann Steurlien
Text and tune: Public domain - Come, Ye Thankful People, Come
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Text by Henry Alford
Tune by George J. Elvey
Public domain - We Praise You, O God
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Text: Julia B. Cory
Tune: Nederlandtsch Gedenckclanck, 1626
Text and tune: Ppublic domain
Recording:
- Video:
- Watch on YouTube