In the Order of Worship/Service, what is essential?
Submitted by Tony Germain on Mon, 2009-03-09 00:20.
I thought I'd throw this thought out into the light of day. In our various church backgrounds, what do you consider as essential in your Order of Worship and what parts are secondary (indifferent) or to say, may help and not harm a Worship Service?
What is the main reason you attend church?
Grace!
tonygermain@msn.com
Micah 6:8
Very interesting topic.
Sure, I'll share some thoughts if you wish.
I do not view myself as an authority on these issues, and what I am saying is coming "off the cuff".
1. Worship. (not celebrating) I say that because many are calling their services a celebrating service, which I kind of chuckle at. Celebrating is like partying. Doesn't sound appropriate to me.
One thing I believe is we have lost the definition of the word worship. Worship is humbling oneself before God and exalting Him. Worship is NOT a music style or a cd. Many have a contempory music style which they call worship. However, it is not focused on being sober before God. It's more getting into a beat and singing lines repeatedly that God loves us (as if we're so great). They call the entertainment directors that are there to entertain us "worship leaders" and they're up there clapping away having a grand old time, but the focus is more not on satisfying God, but rather us feeling good about ourselves rather than convicted, us copying the world. (Yes, I am prepared for the people who will say, "why does the devil have all good music, "david danced" etc.. been there.. done that..etc.)
Worship is serious. We're coming into the presence of God. We are not there to clown around with him. We are there to realize who He is, understand He is onimpotent and we are small in comparision, and treat him with the greatest respect possible and humble ourselves soberly before Him.
2. Respect. God should be respected which follows from the above. If a policeman pulls you over, you will treat him with respect. Will you start clapping away doing a little dance saying how much the policeman loves you? Does not the God who made us, the one who holds our life in place, the one who saved our soul, deserve even a greater level of respect than a mere mortal?
Even the way we dress in a church is a sign of respect. While I understand not everyone can afford a suit or have a new dress, it is important not to treat going to the house of God as just another leisurely outing but treat it with the respect. If we were invited to see the president or a high ranking official, we would not dress in our ordinary clothes. We would put on our best and dress modestly and respectfully. Does not God deserve the same respect?
3. Hymns-Songs- Yes Hymns go back to the psalms and there is evidence that they existed in the past. Hymns are not just singing but are ways to learn about God. They should have lyrics that require cognitive thinking skills and whose purpose is to educate about God. The beat should not be the focus but the words. They should encourage conviction and a more holy walk with God. They should be written by godly, holy people, not entertainers.
4. Prayer- Prayer has always been a part of church services.
5. Preaching the word. I heard that in the past, the reason the pulpits were in the front center is because the Word of God should be the main focus. We can learn about God, be convicted of sin, be encouraged in christian walk, and hopefully sense His presence there through preaching.
6. Lord's Supper. While there is nothing that says it should be done every meeting, the word says, "do this in rememberence of me."
Others may add other items. Feel free to share thoughts.
PS. I do not believe "Superbowl Services" where they all gather around the TV set and worship the mighty sports gods are appropriate.