How our weekly gatherings can exalt God and engage seekers through a reenactment of the gospel
How can the church cultivate worship that both glorifies God and captivates the hearts of those who gather? Many church leaders wrestle with the dual purpose of worship: to exalt the Creator while simultaneously engaging the congregation—both believers and seekers—with the truths of the gospel.
In Colossians 3:16-17, the apostle Paul encapsulates the integration of worship, community, and the gospel narrative, demonstrating how the church's gatherings serve not just as moments of instruction but as transformative experiences that shape our understanding of God, ourselves, and each other.
The Vertical and Horizontal Dimensions of Worship
Exalting God
The primary goal of worship is to glorify God. In our gatherings, we must emphasise that worship is ultimately about Him. The Psalmist reminds us, “Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory” (Psalm 115:1). When we gather, our worship should be steeped in reverence and awe, reflecting God’s attributes and majesty. Each element of the service—from opening to closing—should resonate with the fundamental truth of God’s holiness.
Engaging worship leaders and congregants in recognising this purpose can shift the atmosphere of the service. As Bryan Chappell points out, unless we make the communication of the gospel the focus of our worship, our gatherings may possess only a form of godliness without its power. Worship that is gospel-centric points to the character of God and keeps Him at the forefront of our corporate worship experience.
Edifying Believers and Evangelising Seekers
Just as essential as our vertical focus is the horizontal dimension of worship, which prioritises the edification of believers and the evangelism of those who have yet to understand the gospel. The apostle Paul encourages us that “if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all” (1 Corinthians 14:24-25). The proclamation of God’s truth during worship has the potential to pierce hearts and draw people towards faith in Christ.
To strike a balance in these two dimensions, churches must design their worship to edify believers while intentionally crafting experiences where seekers feel welcomed and challenged. This dual focus can create tension: how do we ensure our worship nurtures believers and invites outsiders to encounter the gospel? The answer lies in doxological evangelism—the act of glorifying God while simultaneously presenting the gospel.
Reenacting the Gospel Narrative
The Structure of Worship
Worship can be viewed as a reenactment of the gospel narrative through established cycles of praise, renewal, and commitment. This framework transforms our gatherings from mere ritual into a dynamic rehearsal of God’s redemptive story.
Praise: Our services must begin with a clear call to worship, focusing our hearts on God’s greatness. Engaging in singing, prayer, and scripture reading, this cycle draws believers into the presence of God, reminding them of His attributes and inviting them to ascribe glory to Him. As we reflect on God’s holiness, we are positioned to worship with truth and joy.
Renewal: The renewal cycle provides an opportunity for communal reflection and repentance. In confessing our sins together and acknowledging our need for grace, we rehearse the reality that we are all in need of God’s mercy, just as Isaiah did when he exclaimed, “Woe to me! For I am a man of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). This moment allows believers and seekers alike to step back and assess their relationship with God, allowing the gospel to reshape their lives.
Commitment: Lastly, the commitment cycle culminates in a response to the Word preached. Here, we invite congregants to react to the truths revealed in Scripture, committing to living out their faith in practical ways. As we invite individuals to invest their lives in service and mission, we are not merely concluding a service; rather, we are sending them out as emissaries of the gospel.
The Liturgy as Story
Whether explicitly or implicitly, the arrangement of elements in our worship communicates theological truths about God and His relationship with His people. The liturgy acts as a narrative, guiding congregants through an experience that deepens their understanding of the gospel.
Church leaders must thoughtfully consider what story their liturgy tells. Does it highlight God as holy, gracious, and present? Does it allow believers and seekers to wrestle with their understanding of sin and grace? A well-crafted liturgy can lead congregants through the gospel narrative, prompting reflections that encourage growth in faith.
Furthermore, our worship design should consult Scripture, tradition, and cultural context without reducing everything to personal preference. As we sacrifice cultural imitation and personal whims, we open ourselves to a richer experience that highlights God's presence and fosters deeper connections among the congregation.
Practical Takeaways for Gospel-Shaped Worship
As leaders and congregants reflect on the nature of worship, we must prioritise these key takeaways to shape our gatherings effectively:
Focus on the Gospel: Ensure that every element of worship serves the goal of glorifying God and proclaiming the gospel. Scripture reading, singing, and preaching should flow from a desire to reveal God's nature and His redemptive work in Christ.
Invite Participation: Engage the congregation actively in worship through participation in song, prayer, and responsive readings. This involvement cultivates a sense of community and ownership of the gospel story being told.
Balance Edification and Evangelism: Recognise the dual purpose of gatherings and design services that cater to both believers and seekers. This intention will make the environment welcoming for those exploring faith while also nurturing the spiritual growth of believers. Watch out for religious jargon that inadvertently isolates seekers.
Shape a Compelling Liturgy: Deliberately select elements that reflect the gospel narrative throughout the service. Each part of the liturgy should guide congregants toward understanding who God is and what He has done for them.
Cultivate a Spirit of Simplicity: Avoid excessive spectacle and manipulation in worship. Rather, trust in the power of God’s Word and Spirit to move hearts. This simplicity fosters an awareness of God and invites His transformative work among us.
Ultimately, worship should be a space where heaven and earth collide—a gathering that enthrones God above all else while resonating with the human condition. By crafting services that celebrate the gospel, we are not merely conducting a ritual; we are inviting each participant into a transformative encounter with God.
Emphasising Community and Connection
Another vital aspect of gospel-shaped worship is fostering an authentic sense of community within the body of Christ. Each gathering must feel like a reunion of family members—a place where individuals can share their burdens, celebrate their joys, and encourage one another.
Fellowship as Worship: Incorporating fellowship opportunities, both before and after the service, helps build relationships that extend beyond the Sunday gathering. Encourage congregants to engage in meaningful conversations and prayer with one another, creating an environment where they feel valued and connected.
Testimonies and Storytelling: Allowing time for testimonies within the service can provide encouragement for the congregation. When individuals share how God has worked in their lives, it not only glorifies Him but also reminds others of the hope and power of the gospel. These testimonies serve as modern-day parables, illustrating how the gospel continues to transform lives.
Ministry Opportunities: Encourage congregants to get involved in service projects and community outreach. Providing avenues for individuals to express their faith through action reinforces the idea that worship is not confined to the church building but is a lifestyle of obedience and love.
A Holistic Approach to Worship
In conclusion, gospel-shaped worship requires a multifaceted approach that recognises the balance of exalting God while engaging the congregation. It calls for a deep commitment to understanding the gospel narrative—inviting all participants to experience the transformative power of Christ's work on their behalf.
As church leaders and congregants, we must assess our worship practices, ensuring that they remain true to the scriptures and relevant in our cultural context. By prioritising the gospel in our gatherings, cultivating community, and intentionally designing worship experiences, we create a space where God is glorified, believers are encouraged, and seekers are not only welcomed but also invited into a life-changing relationship with Jesus. Ultimately, may our worship embody a celebration of the gospel—a testament to God's unchanging love for humanity and a beacon of hope for the world around us.
Author:Damian Grateley
