Survey of Denominations ~ What is Worship?

Again, for those who asked...

Because we will be observing some vastly different services I believe it is important that Olga establish a Biblical framework from which to consider and evaluate what she sees/experiences--now and in the future. Not to mention that I cannot (will not) ignore the fact that her own experiences have been dramatically different--from Russian Orthodox to conservative Protestant/Evangelical. Whoa! :-)

Prior to beginning our 'Survey of Denominations course, I asked Olga to list what she considered integral to/for corporate worship. I reminded her that not everything done during a "worship" service can be Biblically supported as worship (announcements, special programs, awards/recognitions, etc.).

I was very pleased with the list she came up with and wanted to reinforce how the Bible does in fact guide us and encourage us regarding corporate worship. So, on that same sheet of paper I gave her a number of scripture references to read and examine, and asked her to jot down what that verse might be saying about corporate worship. Here are a few of the passages I assigned to her (you can probably think of some more--leave them in a comment if you like!):

2 Timothy 4:2 - preaching of the Word
1 Timothy 2:8 - men praying
Colossians 3:16 - teaching and admonishing with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs
Acts 2:42 - continually devoting themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, prayer
Hebrews 10:25 - not forsaking our own assembling together