What happens when Jesus strolls through the temple courts? Will Jesus spill the divine beans? Stay tuned! Spoiler Alert: The Shepherd knows His sheep!
Section 1. Welcome and Announcements
Welcoming Paragraph
Welcome, dear friends! As we gather here today, I’m filled with joy to see each of you. Whether you’ve been with us for years or this is your first time visiting, you are part of our family. Together, let’s embark on a journey of spiritual growth, embracing the love and grace of our Lord.
Church Announcements
- Community Potluck: Join us next Sunday after the service for a delightful potluck. Bring a dish to share and enjoy fellowship with one another.
- Youth Retreat: Our annual youth retreat is scheduled for the weekend of April 20th. Encourage your teens to sign up for this transformative experience.
- Volunteer Opportunity: We are seeking volunteers for our upcoming outreach program. Sign-up sheets are available in the church foyer.
Section 2. Call to Worship
As we reflect on John 10:22-30, let us center our hearts with its message. In these verses, Jesus is among His people during the Festival of Dedication, reminding us that He is our shepherd. Let us join in worship and open our hearts fully to His voice.
Responsive Reading: Leader: Jesus, our Good Shepherd, calls us by name.
Congregation: We listen and follow His voice.
Section 3. Opening Prayer
Opening Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, we thank You for gathering us here today. As we come before You, we open our hearts to Your wisdom and grace. May Your love fill this place and guide us in every step of our journey. Speak to us through Your Word, and draw us closer to You. Amen.
Section 4. Praise and Worship
Let us now lift our voices in song as our worship team leads us. This is a moment to express our adoration and gratitude toward God. Whether through contemporary songs or cherished hymns, let our hearts rise in fellowship and faith.
Section 5. Scripture Reading
Introduction to John 10:22-30
We turn now to the Gospel of John, where we find Jesus teaching during the Festival of Dedication. This passage reveals His profound connection to us as the shepherd who knows His flock intimately.
The Events in the NIV Bible Verse
In John 10:22-30, Jesus is walking in Solomon’s Colonnade in the temple courts during winter. When the Jews gathered around Him, they asked if He was the Messiah. Jesus, affirming His identity, speaks of His sheep listening to His voice, an assurance of eternal life and unity with the Father.
NIV Bible Verse: John 10:22-30
22 Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter,
23 and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade.
24 The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”
25 Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me,
26 but you do not believe because you are not my sheep.
27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.
28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.
29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.
30 I and the Father are one.”
Section 6. Pastoral Prayer or Intercessory Prayer
Intercessory Prayer
Loving Shepherd, as we reflect on the bond You share with us, we pray for those in need of Your guidance. Gather us close, heal the wounded, and bring peace to troubled hearts. May Your light shine brightly in our lives.
Congregational Prayer Response
All: Lord, thank You for the assurance that we are held securely in Your care. Help us recognize Your voice amidst life’s noise and follow You faithfully.
Section 7. Offering
Importance of Tithes and Offerings
Our tithes and offerings are more than a ritual; they are a testament to God’s providence in our lives. Let us give generously, recognizing this act of worship as a way to honor Him.
Prayer of Thanks
Heavenly Father, thank You for the blessings You bestow upon us. As we bring our offerings today, we do so with grateful hearts, eager to further Your kingdom. May these gifts serve Your purpose and bring glory to Your name. Amen.
Section 8. Special Music
Introduction to Special Music
Let’s prepare our hearts for this special moment of worship. As we listen to this song, I encourage you to reflect on the love of Jesus—the One who knows us fully and cares for us deeply. Let this music lift your spirit and draw you closer to Him.
Bring This Sermon to Life: The Full Teaching and Tools
Our goal in today’s message is to help you see how knowing Jesus as our Shepherd isn’t just a comforting idea but a powerful truth that can transform your daily walk. I’ve prepared some practical tools and scriptures that you can take with you—little reminders of His love, His voice, and His promises. Focus on hearing His voice amidst life’s noise, trusting in His protection, and growing in your faith every day.
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Each Paid Section Includes:
Scripture Explanation in Plain Language
A simple, clear explanation of the Bible passage so everyone can understand what it means in everyday terms.
Ideas for Sharing Your Personal Thoughts
Thought-provoking prompts or reflections to help you connect the Scripture to your own life and experiences.
Ideas for Sharing Your Personal Commentary
Insights and reflections that deepen your understanding, encouraging you to see the passage from a spiritual growth and discipleship perspective.
Ideas for Christian Discipleship and Reflection
Practical ways to apply the Scripture to your walk with Christ—how to grow, serve, and deepen your faith daily.
Ask Yourself This Question?
A thought-provoking question to help you meditate on the message and inspire personal action or commitment.
