Bible Readings and Devotion for October 3, 2020

Here are the references for the readings.  Please look these up in your print Bible, your smartphone app Bible, or your online Bible:

Luke 10:1-16 

2 Corinthians 13:1-13

Psalm 84-85

Job 40

Devotion for October 3, 2020

By Pastor David Tinker

In my experience with people of some other faith traditions I have heard a few people claim that what we do in worship is not, “Biblical.” The reality is that the worship services in our tradition, and in most of Christianity, are strongly founded in God’s Holy Word, and therefore very Biblical.

What we say and do in worship is nearly entirely from scripture.  What is not obviously quotes from scripture is generally founded in Christian, Biblical concepts and images.  It is important to note that we do not just make stuff up and hope it is ok in worship.  There has been loving and intentional work for many centuries to organize and guide our worship services in ways which honor both the Lord and his Holy Word.

One prominent example of worship founded in God’s Word is what we call, “the Apostolic Greeting.”  This is announced near the beginning of worship with Holy Communion.  The presiding minister say, “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all,” to which the congregation responds, “And also with you.”  That greeting is called, “Apostolic,” for it is a direct quote from 2 Corinthians 13:13, which was written by the Apostle Paul.

There are many direct quotes from Scripture or inspired by Scripture parts of our worship service or liturgy.  Here is a document created as part of the publishing of Evangelical Lutheran Worship.  CLICK LINK  It shares numerous passages of Scripture which are quoted or are foundational to what we say and do in worship.

Prayer

God of grace, you have given us minds to know you, hearts to love you, and voices to sing your praise. Fill us with your Spirit, that we may celebrate your glory and worship you in spirit and truth, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen

Prayer and resources from Evangelical Lutheran Worship. Copyright © 2020 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved.