Worship

Dr. Gary Parrett

This course is an introductory level course in worship. These lectures were given at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary during the summer of 2001.

 

 

 

 

I. Key Aspects
1. Worship 1

Worship consists of both revelation and response.

2. Worship 2

Worship is described in both the Old and New Testaments and requires active participation.

3. Worship 3

Our response in worship includes offering or giving something.

II. Old Testament
4. Key Terms and Features

Worship is focused on the character of God and involves every aspect of our lives.

5. Preamble and First Commandment

The First Commandment instructs us about who God is and that we should worship only Him.

6. Second Commandment

The Second Commandment instructs us to not worship images.

7. Third Commandment

The Third Commandment instructs us to not use God's name in a dishonorable way.

8. Fourth thru Tenth Commandments

Commandments four through ten emphasize the Sabbath, honoring your parents, loving your neighbor as yourself, and charit.

III. New Testament
9. Book Discussion 1

Discussion of the book "Worship, Community & the Triune God of Grace," by James B. Torrance.

10. Continuity and Discontinuity

The idea of revelation and response, and cultivating a lifestyle of worship are important elements in biblical worship. It is a challenge to develop an adequate understanding of who God is and how we should approach Him.

11. Christ and the Holy Spirit

Jesus tries to dispel misconceptions about true worship when He has a discussion with the woman at the well in Samaria. The Holy Spirit plays an active role in guiding us to worship in Spirit and in truth.

12. The Leader and Revelation

Jesus is the true worship leader. Worship transcends and includes all cultures and races. Worship celebrates the first coming of Jesus, looks forward to His second coming, and prays that His presence will be manifest in the present.

13. Book Discussion 2

Discussion of two books: "Reaching Our Without Dumbing Down: A Theology of Worship for This Urgent Time," by Marva J. Dawn, and "Contemporary Worship Music: A Biblical Defense," by John M. Frame.

IV. Designing Worship
14. Designing Worship Experiences

Including elements in a worship service like prayer, scripture reading, communion and songs of praise can help people have an authentic worship experience.

15. Video Discussion 1

Discussion of "Ancient-Future Worship," by Robert Webber from the "Ancient-Future Worship Video Series."

16. Leading Music

It is important to choose theologically balanced songs with music appropriate for the people. The worship leader is an extension of the congregation and should prepare the material and the worship team so they can communicate effectively and appropriately.

17. Praise Teams

It is important for praise team leaders to choose praise team members that are qualified spiritually and musically, then encourage and guide the team members effectively.

18. Video Discussion 2

Continuing discussion of "Ancient-Future Worship," by Robert Webber from the "Ancient-Future Worship Video Series."

19. Structure of the Worship Service

The structure of the worship service is centered around gathering, the service of the Word, the service of the Table and dismissal.

20. Elements of the Worship Service

Elements of a worship service include songs, scripture reading, offerings, sacraments, prayer and affirmation of faith.