Public Worship
Public Worship4
Public Bible-Reading as Part of Worship
By A.W. Tozer0NEH 8:8PSA 19:7PSA 119:105ISA 55:11ROM 10:17COL 3:161TI 4:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12REV 1:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of loving the Bible in order to read it effectively in public worship. He argues that true reverence for the Scriptures cannot be faked, and that a reader must feel the solemnity of God's Word to convey its message authentically. Tozer warns against the pitfalls of artificiality in delivery and stresses the need for readers to understand the text deeply, allowing it to speak for itself without personal embellishments. He encourages beginners to practice reading aloud in private to develop their skills and cultivate a respectful and dignified approach to Scripture reading. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a higher standard of Bible reading in Protestant churches, asserting that it is the responsibility of the readers to elevate this practice.
Baptism, a Public Ordinance of Divine Worship.
By John Gill0MAT 28:19MRK 16:16ACT 2:38ACT 8:36John Gill emphasizes that baptism is a public ordinance of divine worship, distinct from church ordinances, and is essential for admission into the church. He argues that baptism is a standing ordinance of the New Testament, instituted by God, and should be administered to those who have repented and believed in Christ. Gill refutes the practice of infant baptism, asserting that only those who are enlightened, penitent, and have faith in Christ are proper subjects for baptism. He highlights the importance of immersion as the correct mode of baptism, aligning it with the practices of John the Baptist and the apostles. Ultimately, Gill calls for a return to the biblical understanding and practice of baptism as a significant act of obedience and public declaration of faith.
Of Public Prayer.
By John Gill0PSA 50:15MAT 6:6LUK 18:1ACT 1:14ROM 10:1EPH 6:18PHP 4:61TH 5:171TI 2:1JAS 5:16John Gill emphasizes the significance of public prayer as a vital component of spiritual warfare and communion with God. He illustrates how prayer serves as a powerful weapon against both temporal and spiritual enemies, citing biblical examples such as Moses and Elijah. Gill categorizes various forms of prayer, including mental, vocal, private, social, family, and public prayer, and stresses the importance of sincerity, faith, and submission to God's will in prayer. He encourages believers to approach God with confidence, knowing that He is attentive to their needs and desires, and highlights the communal aspect of prayer in the life of the church.
Of the Place and Time of Public Worship.
By John Gill0GEN 2:2John Gill emphasizes the significance of the place and time of public worship, tracing the evolution of worship locations from the tabernacle in the wilderness to the eventual establishment of the temple in Jerusalem. He discusses the historical context of worship practices, noting that the early patriarchs worshipped in their homes and built altars in various locations. Gill argues that the seventh-day Sabbath was not a universal command from creation but was specifically given to the Israelites, while the first day of the week emerged as the primary day of worship for Christians, reflecting the resurrection of Christ. He concludes that worship should be conducted in a manner that honors God, regardless of the specific day chosen, as long as it is done with reverence and purpose.