More from the Narrative Commentary on the Divine Service by John Pless, which some pastors are using to teach what the elements in worship mean:
NICENE CREED
Having heard the Word of God, we confess our faith in His Name. The Creed is our saying back to God what He has first said to us. To same/say about God what He has revealed about Himself. In the Nicene Creed, we acclaim the truth of the Triune God and His work of salvation accomplished for us in His Incarnate Son, Jesus Christ.
– Creed –
THE HYMN OF THE DAY and SERMON
The praise continues in the Hymn of the Day. As the Word of God dwells in us it calls forth songs of faith and love. This hymn refl ects the particular theme of the Scripture Readings which we have heard. Then, in continuity with the Prophets, Apostles, and Evangelists, our Pastor stands in our midst to deliver the Lord’s Law and Gospel in the sermon. He is God’s mouth for the congregation as through him the Good Shepherd’s voice sounds forth to call, gather, and enlighten His flock.