Monday
Nov102003
Here's a good question
Monday, November 10, 2003 at 9:32PM
Easum says, "Does preaching really belong in worship? In the New Testament time, preaching was to the pagans, while worship was done in private [small groups/house churches]." Not a bad question.
Reader Comments (4)
Well, it's a good question, but Easum's premise is a bit flawed, isn't it? Jesus preached to the Jews, as did Peter, Paul, and the other apostles. I believe worship requires a certain type of preaching, preaching that isn't an Evangelism 101 "invitation" sermon, but a believers sermon; something that helps the saints grow in faith and action. The scriptures themselves are written to and for believers, and they are the source of every sermon.
I'm not sure. Teaching and study of the Scriptures took place among believers, but I'm not sure it was preaching as we know it. Most of the preaching, as such, took place more publicly, not as a modern crusade sermon but more geared to those who weren't following Christ. Does this make sense?
Yes, it makes sense. The NT really doesn't give a model of preaching, or worship, really; only that both took place. I do think preaching has an important place as PART of worship, though not the central place it's assumed in many Protestant formats. It could be Easum is proding us to rethink the role and purpose of preaching in worship. And there's certainly nothing wrong with that!
Our good friend John Calvin is historically responsible for the format of our worship today. While in some sense I agree, it really depends on what the context of the sermon is. "Preaching" doesn't have to be soley for the sake of winning souls, but building up and encouraging, and teaching as well. Maybe the term "preaching" should become "teaching." On the other hand, if the only people who attend your church are Christians, you're missing the boat. I'm sure there are lost people in your church, are there not? On the other hand, why is there music in worship? Isn't worship more than just singing songs? Ask Matt Redman. That's why he wrote "Heart of Worship."