THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST (Proper 16)
August 27, 2023
AS WE GATHER
In Isaiah the people are bid to look to their spiritual ancestors as the Rock from which they were hewn. Jesus declares that the church will be built on the rock of Peter’s bold confession of faith. God’s word of reconciliation and mercy are keys to the church’s mission. Paul urges us to not be conformed to this world, but to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, using our individual gifts to build up the body of Christ. From the table we go forth to offer our spiritual worship through word and deed.
Bible Readings
OLD TESTAMENT READING: Isaiah 51:1-6
(God offers comfort in the knowledge that His deliverance will come soon and will never end.)
EPISTLE READING: Romans 11:33-12:8
(God calls us to service and reminds us that all forms of ministry function to build up the body of Christ.)
HOLY GOSPEL: Matthew 16:13-20
(Peter gives his inspired confession of faith, and Jesus responds with the promise of a church that will overcome the very gates of hell.)