4/19 - Follow Me

 Greetings St. Andrew's Family

This week in worship, our music is intentionally shaped to reflect the movement of discipleship found in Gospel of John 21, where the risen Christ meets Peter in a moment of grace, restoration, and calling. The arc of the service follows a deeply theological pattern: we are called into God’s work, grounded in God’s grace, and sent out in faithful response.

We begin with “Build Your Kingdom Here” by Rend Collective, an energetic and joyful song that functions as a call to worship and a call to mission. Theologically, this opening reminds us that the Kingdom of God is not merely something we await, it is something in which we are invited to participate. God’s work in the world continues through His people, and worship becomes the place where we both celebrate and recommit to that calling. The energy of this song reflects the urgency and joy of being invited into God’s mission.

From there, we move into “Blessed Assurance,” the beloved hymn by Fanny J. Crosby. After the outward call to action, this moment centers us in the inward reality of grace. Before we can follow Christ, we must first know who we are in Him. In John 21, Jesus restores Peter not through rebuke, but through relationship—inviting him to reaffirm his love. This hymn echoes that same truth: our assurance is not rooted in our perfection, but in Christ’s finished work. It is a moment to rest, to remember, and to be renewed.

The Scripture and sermon, “Follow Me,” bring the focus into sharp clarity. Jesus’ words to Peter are both an invitation and a command—one that extends to all who would call themselves disciples. To follow Christ is to align our lives with His, to trust His leading, and to embody His love in the world. This is the heart of Christian discipleship: not simply believing in Christ, but walking with Him.

We conclude with “Where He Leads Me” by E. W. Blandy, a hymn that expresses a simple yet profound commitment to that call. As the final act of worship, it serves as a communal response to everything that has come before. Having been called into God’s work and grounded in God’s grace, we now offer ourselves in obedience. The repetition of its refrain reinforces the central question of the day: will we follow where Christ leads?

Taken together, these songs form a seamless and meaningful journey. Worship begins with a call to participate in God’s Kingdom, moves through the assurance of God’s grace, and culminates in a response of faithful discipleship. In this way, the music does more than accompany the service—it proclaims the gospel, invites transformation, and sends us out to live what we have sung.

With Love and Music 

Music Tom 

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