Christian Ordinances

(1554)

(1522–1559)

Dutch Reformer in London

SERVICE OF THE WORD

  • Prayer for Illumination
  • Lord’s Prayer
  • Psalm
  • Scripture
  • Sermon
  • Prayer for Strength
  • Decalogue
  • Admonishment
  • Confession of Sin
  • Absolution
  • Warning to the Impenitent
  • Apostles’ Creed
  • Intercessions
  • Lord’s Prayer
  • Psalm
  • Wish of Peace
  • Commendation of the Poor
  • Benediction

SERVICE OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

  • Sermon on the Lord’s Supper
  • Intercessions
  • Psalm
  • Notice of Exclusion
  • Short Introduction
  • Prayer of Preparation
  • Words of Institution
  • Exhortation to Self-Examination and Self-Preparation
  • Announcement (1 Cor. 5)
  • Distribution (John 6, 13–15, etc. read)
  • Exhortation
  • Prayer of Thanksgiving
  • Commendation of the Poor
  • Psalm
  • Dismissal
  • Collection of Alms

O heavenly Father, whose law is perfect, converting the soul, a sure testimony, giving wisdom to the unlearned, and enlightening the eyes, we humbly implore you, through your boundless goodness, to enlighten our blind intellect by your Holy Spirit, so that we may truly understand and profess your law and live according to it. Since it has pleased you, most merciful Father, to reveal the mysteries of your will only to the little ones;3 and since you look to him alone who is of a humble and contrite spirit,4 who has reverence for your Word, grant us a humble spirit and keep us from all fleshly wisdom, which is enmity against you.5 Bring to the right way those who stray from the truth, so that we all may unanimously serve you in holiness and righteousness,6 all the days of our life. We ask this from you, most merciful Father, in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Prayer before the sermon