Mar 15

Acts 2:42
Memorise John 4:24
“And they continued stedfastly…”

When the New Testament church was newly formed, there was a great number who received the Gospel message and believed. Acts 2:42 lays out for us the elements of their worship – the apostle’s doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayers. The word “doctrine” simply means “teaching”. Receiving the Gospel was but the first step in their lives as Christians – now they needed to take heed to God’s Word that was delivered through the apostles. “Fellowship” is a word we are familiar with, which indicates “partnership” – the fact that they were of the same mind and purpose in gathering together. Breaking of bread refers not simply to ordinary meals together, but also refers to the Lord’s Supper that reminded them of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Last but not least, they set aside time for prayer.

What does worship entail for us today? Our present setting and culture may be very different from the early New Testament church, but the fundamental elements remain the same. We have no Apostles who speak inspired Scripture to us, but we do have the Bible – the written Word of God itself. The preaching of God’s Word is central to our worship service, and through the preaching of God’s Word we learn what is His will in our lives.

Fellowship is also essential – the fact that we all have a relationship with God is the basis of our coming together to worship Him. If anyone is not born again, then that person cannot truly participate in worship with the rest of God’s people.

The Lord’s Supper reminds us of Christ’s sacrifice that makes our gathering before God acceptable in His sight. As sinners, there is no reason for God to have any regard for us. Yet because of Christ’s finished work, sinners saved by grace are able to gather together and offer worship that is acceptable and pleasing in God’s sight.

Finally, prayer allows us to align ourselves with God’s will. As a church, it

means that we pray for His will to be done at every worship service.

Thought: Do I understand the elements of worship, or am I just going through the motions?
Prayer: Lord, help me to worship Thee in spirit and in truth.