Preparing for the Lord's Day
Jesus is Better
Hebrews Chapter 11 is known as the Hall of Faith. The author begins the chapter by giving a brief definition of faith, the assurance of things hoped for, and then gives a catalog of Old Testament saints who exemplified faith in their lives. Last week, Pastor Shane taught about the faith displayed in the life of Abel, and this week we move on to the faith of Enoch.
Enoch’s story is both brief and mysterious. Enoch is the seventh generation after Adam in the line of Seth and he is the father of Methuselah. In Genesis Chapter 5 we read of Enoch,
“Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him” (Genesis 5:24 ESV).
What does it mean that Enoch walked with God? What does it mean that he was not? What does it mean that God took him? All these questions have led to wild speculations and theories about Enoch. Yet the Word of God tells us clearly what we need to know about Enoch. He lived a life of faith, and by his faith, he was saved from the pains of death (Hebrews 11:5).
While the specific circumstances of Enoch’s departure from his earthly existence were extraordinary, the example of this life of faith remains. The promise of the gospel is that all who walk with the Lord through faith in Jesus Christ will ultimately be saved from the sting and the power of death. Therefore, we are to look to Enoch as an example of faith and as an encouragement to walk with the Lord. To come prepared for the sermon, take time this week to read and to meditate upon Hebrews 11:5-6, Genesis 5:21-24, Deuteronomy 6:4, Psalm 138:5, John 8:52, 1 Corinthians 15:54-57, and Westminster Confession of Faith 32.2.
This week we will celebrate that sacrament of the Lord’s Supper during our worship service. As we receive the elements of bread and wine we look in faith to the Lord Jesus Christ. For as we physically receive the signs of the Lord’s body and blood, spiritually we feed upon him and all his benefits. Our hymns for this week include “O Come, O Come Emmanuel,” “Joy to the World!,” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”
Sermon Information
Text: Hebrews 11:5-6
Title: The Walk of Faith
Outline:
- Every Christian Must Know Their Companion
- Every Christian Must Follow the Way
- Every Christian Must Desire the Destination
A Liturgical Note:
This week begins the season of Advent in which we celebrate the coming of Christ. We look back to the first coming of Christ with gratefulness and joy and we look forward to the second coming of Christ with hope and anticipation. Note in the worship service the several elements reflecting this celebration. Along with the purple paraments are evergreen arrangements that reflect the everlasting life that Christ brings to his people. On Christmas Eve night the paraments will change to white and the sanctuary will be fully decorated to welcome the Christ Child, Immanuel, God with Us.
Each week we will also include the lighting of the Advent wreath candles. This moment includes a Scripture reading and a prayer that reflects the four themes of Advent: Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. On Christmas Eve night the final candle will be lit, the center white candle. This signals the birth of Christ, the light of the world.
We hope that each of you will take time to reflect upon the beauty of the season displayed in the floral arrangements, the paraments, the liturgy, and the special music. May our hearts long for Christ and the beauty of His coming.