Order in Worship: Why It Matters and How It Points to Jesus
Adapted from: Orderly Worship by Sam Holm
Have you ever wondered why church services are structured the way they are? Or why there’s an emphasis on order during worship? You’re not alone. Many of us have questioned the need for structure in a setting that’s supposed to be spiritual and freeing. But what if I told you that order in worship is not just a matter of tradition, but a biblical principle that points us to something much greater?
In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul addresses the church in Corinth about the importance of orderly worship. He emphasizes that God is not a God of confusion but of peace, and that everything should be done decently and in order. This isn’t just about keeping things neat and tidy; it’s about creating an environment where everyone can participate, learn, and grow in their faith. It’s about making sure that the message of Jesus—His death, burial, and resurrection—is clearly communicated and not lost in chaos.
Why Order Matters
Order in worship allows for participation and submission, two key elements that Paul highlights. When we gather, each person has a role to play, whether it’s singing, teaching, or sharing a revelation. This participation isn’t just for the sake of being involved; it’s for building up the church and pointing everyone to Jesus.
Paul also talks about submission, a concept that might seem outdated or controversial today. But in the context of worship, submission is about recognizing the authority of God’s Word and the leadership He has established in the church. It’s about ensuring that what is taught aligns with Scripture, so that the truth of the Gospel is upheld.
Participation and Submission
Paul’s instructions to the Corinthians were clear: everyone should participate, but with restrictions for the sake of order. This means that while spiritual gifts like teaching, prophecy, and speaking in tongues are encouraged, they should be exercised in a way that edifies the church and maintains clarity. For instance, if someone speaks in tongues, there should be an interpreter present. If someone prophesies, others should weigh what is said to ensure it aligns with Scripture.
Submission is another crucial aspect. Paul’s directive for women to remain silent in certain contexts has been a point of contention, but it’s important to understand it within the framework of maintaining order and respect within the church. This isn’t about silencing women but about ensuring that the teaching and correction within the church are handled appropriately, respecting the roles established by God.
How It Points to Jesus
The ultimate goal of orderly worship is to point us to Jesus. Paul reminds us that the most important message we have is that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again. This is the foundation of our faith and the reason we gather. When our worship is orderly, it allows this message to be clearly communicated and received.
Orderly worship ensures that the focus remains on the Gospel. It prevents the chaos that can distract from the central message of Christ’s death and resurrection. By participating in an orderly fashion, we help create an environment where the Gospel can be clearly heard and understood.
Taking the Next Step
As we approach Easter, think about how you can participate in worship in a way that points others to Jesus. Is there someone you can invite to church to hear the message of His resurrection? Is there a way you can use your gifts to serve and build up the church? Remember, it’s not about you; it’s about Him.
Consider how you can contribute to the order and peace of your worship community. Whether it’s through singing, teaching, or simply being present and engaged, your participation matters. It’s a way to honor God and help others see the beauty of the Gospel.
Conclusion
Orderly worship is not just a matter of tradition or preference. It’s a biblical principle that helps us focus on what truly matters: the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. By participating in worship with a heart of submission and a desire to build up the church, we can help others encounter the transformative power of the Gospel. As we gather to celebrate Easter, let’s remember that our worship is ultimately about pointing to the One who died and rose again for us.
Have you ever wondered why church services are structured the way they are? Or why there’s an emphasis on order during worship? You’re not alone. Many of us have questioned the need for structure in a setting that’s supposed to be spiritual and freeing. But what if I told you that order in worship is not just a matter of tradition, but a biblical principle that points us to something much greater?
In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul addresses the church in Corinth about the importance of orderly worship. He emphasizes that God is not a God of confusion but of peace, and that everything should be done decently and in order. This isn’t just about keeping things neat and tidy; it’s about creating an environment where everyone can participate, learn, and grow in their faith. It’s about making sure that the message of Jesus—His death, burial, and resurrection—is clearly communicated and not lost in chaos.
Why Order Matters
Order in worship allows for participation and submission, two key elements that Paul highlights. When we gather, each person has a role to play, whether it’s singing, teaching, or sharing a revelation. This participation isn’t just for the sake of being involved; it’s for building up the church and pointing everyone to Jesus.
Paul also talks about submission, a concept that might seem outdated or controversial today. But in the context of worship, submission is about recognizing the authority of God’s Word and the leadership He has established in the church. It’s about ensuring that what is taught aligns with Scripture, so that the truth of the Gospel is upheld.
Participation and Submission
Paul’s instructions to the Corinthians were clear: everyone should participate, but with restrictions for the sake of order. This means that while spiritual gifts like teaching, prophecy, and speaking in tongues are encouraged, they should be exercised in a way that edifies the church and maintains clarity. For instance, if someone speaks in tongues, there should be an interpreter present. If someone prophesies, others should weigh what is said to ensure it aligns with Scripture.
Submission is another crucial aspect. Paul’s directive for women to remain silent in certain contexts has been a point of contention, but it’s important to understand it within the framework of maintaining order and respect within the church. This isn’t about silencing women but about ensuring that the teaching and correction within the church are handled appropriately, respecting the roles established by God.
How It Points to Jesus
The ultimate goal of orderly worship is to point us to Jesus. Paul reminds us that the most important message we have is that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again. This is the foundation of our faith and the reason we gather. When our worship is orderly, it allows this message to be clearly communicated and received.
Orderly worship ensures that the focus remains on the Gospel. It prevents the chaos that can distract from the central message of Christ’s death and resurrection. By participating in an orderly fashion, we help create an environment where the Gospel can be clearly heard and understood.
Taking the Next Step
As we approach Easter, think about how you can participate in worship in a way that points others to Jesus. Is there someone you can invite to church to hear the message of His resurrection? Is there a way you can use your gifts to serve and build up the church? Remember, it’s not about you; it’s about Him.
Consider how you can contribute to the order and peace of your worship community. Whether it’s through singing, teaching, or simply being present and engaged, your participation matters. It’s a way to honor God and help others see the beauty of the Gospel.
Conclusion
Orderly worship is not just a matter of tradition or preference. It’s a biblical principle that helps us focus on what truly matters: the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. By participating in worship with a heart of submission and a desire to build up the church, we can help others encounter the transformative power of the Gospel. As we gather to celebrate Easter, let’s remember that our worship is ultimately about pointing to the One who died and rose again for us.
Posted in New Testament
Posted in Corinthians, Worship, Spiritual Gifts, Sacrament, Preach, Teach, Church, Gather, Growth, Community, Believers, Glory, Holy Spirit, Tongues, Communicate, Language, Prophecy, Love, Engage, Women, Talk, Ministry, Pastor
Posted in Corinthians, Worship, Spiritual Gifts, Sacrament, Preach, Teach, Church, Gather, Growth, Community, Believers, Glory, Holy Spirit, Tongues, Communicate, Language, Prophecy, Love, Engage, Women, Talk, Ministry, Pastor
Recent
Archive
2025
January
March
2024
September
October