What's Right About Worship #3

"God is seeking every believer to worship Him, because Jesus said, "The Father seeks worship." Worship is a two-way street that first gives praise to God, and second, strengthens believers as they give themselves in worship to God. When the church is right on worship, it is a transforming power to its members and the congregation as a whole."*

We have started a brief survey of 6 different styles of worship.  Today we will finish the last three.  The final study in this series on Worship will be on the Biblical basis of the difference in worship styles.

Yesterday, we discussed Evangelistic, Bible-expositional, and Renewal styles of worship. Today we start by considering what can be called Body Life style of worship.  This type of worship style is based upon small groups or cells. This is not a pulpit-dominated style of worship. They tend focus on koinonia (fellowship) between the members of the cells.  They seek out each other for support, help and ministry.

The fifth style of worship we will consider is the Liturgical style of worship. This is a long-time traditional form of worship. They tend to call their place of worship a sanctuary (meaning a place where God dwells) instead of a Worship Center or Auditorium. They tend to follow a ritual (not in a bad sense) form services.  You will find that they tend to follow the same order of service week after week. They follow a liturgy - comes from a Greek word, leitoureo, which means to serve or minister.  Thus often you will hear of worshipping God by giving,or praying, etc.

The sixth and final style is called Congregational. It is a style of the people, by the people, and for the people. It is usually law-based and lay-driven. Preaching tends to speak to the hearts of the people. The Pastor is a shepherd, and the congregation is responsible for doing the work of the ministry. The Pastor's tasks are organizing and preaching. The worship time is done by the congregation, and the Pastor speaks to encourage and motivate.

We have considered six styles of worship over the last two Blogs.  Can you find your preference in one of these?  Do you see your church in one of these?

Today, pray for God's guidance in your worship (focus on Him), and to be able to help others to worship God.  We can worship all day long - if we keep our focus on God.

* Towns, Elmer L. (2009) What's Right with the Church: A manifesto of Hope. Regal/Ventura CA. pp. 78; 97