November 10th, Sermon & Ministry Resources

Christ's Superior Sacrifice: Our Perfect High Priest (Hebrews 9:24-28)

Lectionary Readings — Twenty-Fifth Sunday after Pentecost — November 10, 2024

Ruth 3:1-5; 4:13-17; Psalm 127; Hebrews 9:24-28; Mark 12:38-44

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Call to Worship (based on Hebrews 9:24-28)

Leader: Christ our High Priest has entered into heaven itself,

People: To appear in the presence of God on our behalf.

Leader: Unlike earthly priests who offer sacrifices again and again,

People: Christ has offered himself once and for all.

Leader: He has removed our sin by the sacrifice of himself,

People: And he will come again to bring salvation.

Leader: No longer must we bear the burden of our transgressions,

People: For Christ has carried them away once for all time.

Leader: We wait with hope for his promised return,

People: When he will bring fullness of salvation to those who trust in him.

Leader: Let us worship the One who intercedes for us,

All: Our great High Priest, Jesus Christ our Lord.

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Opening Prayer (based on Psalm 127)

Gracious and Almighty God,

We come before you this morning, humbly acknowledging that unless you build the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless you guard our lives, we keep watch to no purpose. Help us to remember that all our efforts find their meaning and purpose in you alone.

We lift up those among us who are building and rebuilding their lives today. Be with expectant parents in our congregation as they prepare for the gift of new life. Guide our young people as they prepare for their futures. Strengthen those who are seeking employment, that they might find meaningful work and purpose in their labor.

Lord, we especially pray for those in our midst who cannot find rest – those beginning medical treatments, those walking through the valley of grief, and our homebound members who feel isolated and alone. Grant them your peace that passes all understanding.

We give you thanks for the precious gift of children in our congregation. Thank you for their energy, their joy, and the way they remind us of your kingdom. We are grateful for the wisdom of our elders and for the heritage of faith that continues to be passed down through generations.

Guide us, O Lord, as we build this community of faith together. May we remember that every good gift comes from you, and that our work finds its true purpose when we labor according to your will. Help us to trust in your providence, knowing that you give rest to those you love.

We pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, our sure foundation, Amen.

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Sermon Outline: [NOTE to Paid subscribers — scroll down for the full manuscript sermon].

[Note: All Scripture is taken from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.]

Sermon Outline: "Christ's Superior Sacrifice: Our Perfect High Priest” (Hebrews 9:24-28)

Introduction

• Context: Contrast between earthly and heavenly sanctuary

• Connection to Old Testament sacrificial system

• Central theme: Christ's superior and sufficient sacrifice

1. The PLACE of Christ's Ministry (v. 24)

2. The PERFECTION of Christ's Sacrifice (vv. 25-26)

3. The PROMISE of Christ's Return (vv. 27-28)

Conclusion

• Embrace the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice

• Live in light of His present ministry

• Anticipate His return with hope

Full Manuscript Sermon Below for Paid Subscribers