Liturgy for Christ the King (Reign of Christ), Year B (Mark)
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Passages for Christ the King Sunday, Year B (Mark)
In 2 Samuel 23:1–7, David speaks of his last words, declaring his anointing by God and his role as the shepherd of Israel. He reflects on the righteous rule that God desires and emphasizes that the Lord’s promise will be fulfilled through his lineage.
Psalm 132:1–12 (13–18) expresses a longing for God’s presence in Zion, recounting the Lord’s promises to David. The psalmist recalls David’s commitment to find a dwelling place for the Lord and celebrates God’s covenant with David.
In Revelation 1:4b–8, John writes to the seven churches and praises Jesus Christ, who has freed humanity from sin and made them a kingdom of priests. The passage proclaims Christ’s triumphant return and emphasizes his eternal sovereignty, as the Alpha and Omega.
John 18:33–37 recounts Jesus’ interrogation by Pilate. When asked if He is the King of the Jews, Jesus clarifies that his kingdom is not of this world, emphasizing that his purpose is to bear witness to the truth. Pilate grapples with the concept of truth, ultimately questioning what it really is, as Jesus asserts that those who belong to the truth hear His voice.
Overlapping Theme
In a time of the rising threat of Christian Nationalism, which is not Christian, it is necessary and good to speak about the nature of kingship. I often talk about the rule of God and the influence of God in the lives of people on this day. It is never by coercion.
In John 18:33–37, Jesus redefines kingship by asserting that his kingdom is not of this world, emphasizing a spiritual authority rooted in truth.
Sermon Idea
See the theme above.
Call to Worship
One: We come to worship Jesus Christ, Alpha and Omega, the one who is, who was, and is to come.
All: We come to worship the one who rules justly and with integrity.
One: Come to worship Jesus Christ, the faithful witness. The firstborn of the dead, the ruler of the kings of the earth.
All: he is the Eternal Word, the Great I AM.
One. He is the Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace!
All: We come to worship Jesus Christ, King of kings and Lord of lords! To him alone be glory and honor forever and ever. Amen!
Prayer of Confession
God of Eternity, you are strong, trustworthy, and our help in our time of need. Help us to put no human ruler or human power in the place of you. Empower us to follow Christ first, so that we may do what is best for all. We ask this of you for we know that we are secure in Christ, whose reign is just, whose power is endless, and whose love is bottomless. (Pause for personal, private prayer)
Lord may your name be glorified in us and through us. We ask this through Christ Jesus, your only begotten son. It is he who is our Lord and our Savior, our brother and our friend.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon - Colossians 1:13-14
For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
One: Friends, this is the good news!
All: Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Lord, through sight and sound, intuition and intellect, you reveal your grace to us. We rejoice, knowing that your word planted in us will bear good fruit by your active grace, which you give to us. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
Lord, we bend our knee to you in happy obedience because you have done great things for us. Please use these offerings to continue your work in us and through us. Amen.
