31 January 2021 is the Fourth Sunday after the Epiphany.

The Lectionary texts for this week are: Deuteronomy 18:15-20; Psalm 111; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13; and Mark 1:21-28.

The passage from Mark, in which Jesus drives out an impure spirit from a man in the synagogue, forms the basis of Rev. Geoff McKee’s sermon. That Bible reading is set out immediately below.

After the main reading is the video of the service, including all Scripture readings, prayers, and sermon. Finally, there is Kath’s musical selection.

The main Bible reading for this week’s service

Mark 1:21-28 (New International Version)
Jesus Drives Out an Impure Spirit
21 They went to Capernaum, and when the Sabbath came, Jesus went into the synagogue and began to teach. 22 The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law. 23 Just then a man in their synagogue who was possessed by an impure spirit cried out, 24 “What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are—the Holy One of God!”

25 “Be quiet!” said Jesus sternly. “Come out of him!” 26 The impure spirit shook the man violently and came out of him with a shriek.

27 The people were all so amazed that they asked each other, “What is this? A new teaching—and with authority! He even gives orders to impure spirits and they obey him.” 28 News about him spread quickly over the whole region of Galilee.

This week’s service

Musical Selection

This hymn has been set to a number of different tunes over the years.

This version has a really nice rhythmic flow to it. It is a hymn of commitment for all Christians. It speaks of the promises that we have made to Jesus and also asks Jesus to protect us from the dangers of this world.

Our reassurance is that Jesus promised that we will have eternal life and live with him in Glory!

O Jesus I have promised