Liturgy for the Fourth Sunday of Easter, Year C
What is the Fourth Sunday of Easter?
The Fourth Sunday of Easter celebrates the tender care of the Good Shepherd, who knows their sheep and calls them by name. We reflect on the themes of restoration, renewal, and eternal life in the presence of Christ.
Scriptures for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
Acts 9:36-43
Tabitha, raised from the dead, becomes a testimony to the life-giving power of Jesus.
Psalm 23
The Lord is our shepherd, guiding and restoring us through the valleys of life.
Revelation 7:9-17
A vision of the multitude in heaven, gathered before the Lamb, celebrating God’s victory over death.
John 10:22-30
Jesus assures his followers that he knows them intimately, and they are secure in his care.
Opening Prayer
Gracious God, we gather in the warmth of your presence, trusting that you are our Good Shepherd, leading us beside still waters and restoring our souls. You know us by name, and you guide us through the darkest valleys. Open our hearts to hear your voice, that we might follow you in all things. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Call to Worship
Call to Worship #1 – The Shepherd’s Call
One: The Lord is our shepherd; we shall not want.
All: He makes us lie down in green pastures, leads us beside still waters.
One: Even though we walk through the darkest valley,
All: We will fear no evil, for you are with us.
One: Come, let us worship the Good Shepherd,
All: Who calls us by name and leads us to life everlasting.
Call to Worship #2 – Eternal Shepherd
One: The Lamb who was slain has risen and reigns forever.
All: We are gathered before the throne, clothed in his righteousness.
One: Let us join the heavenly multitude in worship.
All: For the Good Shepherd has called us, and in his care, we find peace.
Call to Worship #3 – In the Shepherd’s Care
One: The Lord is our shepherd, and we are his flock.
All: He restores our souls and leads us in paths of righteousness.
One: Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving,
All: And worship the One who gives us eternal life.
Prayer of Confession
All: Good Shepherd, we confess that we have not always followed your voice. We have strayed from your path and sought our own way. Forgive us for the times we have doubted your care and ignored your guidance. Restore us, O Lord, and lead us back into your loving embrace. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
John 10:28-29
Hear the good news: Jesus says, “I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand.”
In Christ, we are forgiven, held securely in his love, and promised life forevermore. Thanks be to God!
Prayer of Illumination
Good Shepherd, you call us to listen and follow. Open our hearts and minds as we hear Your Word today. May it guide us and nourish our souls, that we may live in Your care, now and forever. Amen.
Prayer of Dedication
Shepherd of our souls, we bring our gifts to you in thanksgiving for Your abundant care. Use them to spread your love and peace to all who are in need, that your kingdom may be built here on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Themes of the Fourth Sunday of Easter
The Good Shepherd: Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows us by name and offers us abundant life.
Restoration: Christ restores us from the death of sin into new life, just as He raised Tabitha.
The Lamb Who Was Slain: Revelation 7 reminds us of the eternal victory of the Lamb, who wipes away every tear.
Sermon Ideas for the Fourth Sunday of Easter
“Restored by the Shepherd’s Care”
Exploring how Christ, our Shepherd, calls us to a life of peace and restoration.
“Following the Voice of the Good Shepherd”
Reflecting on the intimate relationship between Jesus and his followers, and the security we have in his care.
“The Multitude Before the Throne”
A look at the eternal promise of our salvation and the victory of Christ over death and suffering.
