Key Text:
Acts 2:42-47
1 Corinthians 14:26
Hebrews 10:24-25
Introduction:
What should a "normal" church service look like according to the New Testament? The answer may surprise us, challenge us, and even convict us. The early church modeled vibrant gatherings full of the power and presence of the Holy Spirit. Yet, many Christians today settle for "less-than" services—routine rituals devoid of spiritual vitality. Let's explore what Scripture teaches about God's expectations for His Church, why many settle for less, and how we can recover the fullness of New Testament worship.
1. The Biblical Model of a "Normal" Church Service
A. Acts 2:42-47 – The Early Church's Example
The early church devoted itself to:
Apostles' Teaching – A focus on God's Word and sound doctrine.
Fellowship – True connection, love, and support among believers.
Breaking of Bread – Communion and meals together to remember Christ.
Prayers – Persistent and unified prayer for one another and the world.
Signs and Wonders – The manifestation of God's power through healings and miracles.
B. 1 Corinthians 14:26 – Participatory Worship
Paul describes a service where everyone contributes:
A hymn is a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation.
Everything should be done to build up the church.
Illustration: Imagine a family dinner where each member contributes. Some bring food, others set the table, and all participate in meaningful conversation. This is the picture Paul paints for the church—everyone engaged, not a one-person show.
2. Why Christians Settle for "Less-Than" Services
A. Cultural Comfort
Many prefer predictability over the vulnerability required for Spirit-led services. Cultural Christianity often promotes convenience over commitment.
2 Timothy 4:3-4 warns of people seeking teaching that pleases their desires, not the truth.
B. Fear of the Holy Spirit's Movement
A Spirit-filled service can be unpredictable. The early church's experiences of tongues, prophecy, and healing (Acts 2:4, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11) make some modern Christians uncomfortable.
Illustration: It's like standing on the edge of a cliff with a parachute. You know the parachute works, but fear of stepping off the edge keeps you grounded. Many are afraid to trust the Holy Spirit fully, opting for safe but spiritually shallow gatherings.
C. Consumer Mindset
Many people do not see the church as a place to serve; they attend to "get something out of it." This mindset contrasts sharply with Jesus' call to "deny yourself" (Matthew 16:24).
D. Leadership Fatigue
Pastors and leaders sometimes settle for "less-than" services because the complete New Testament model requires significant effort, prayer, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
3. What Should Be Done to Restore the Normal Church Service?
A. Return to Prayer and Dependence on the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:14 – The early believers devoted themselves to prayer before Pentecost.
Ephesians 5:18-20 – Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.
Churches must prioritize prayer and expect the Spirit to work actively during every gathering.
Illustration: Revival services often start with prayer meetings. During the Welsh Revival (1904-1905), worship was Spirit-led, spontaneous, and profoundly convicting, transforming entire communities.
B. Teach and Expect Participation
Encourage every member to bring something to the service, as Paul instructed (1 Corinthians 14:26). Small groups and discipleship can help believers grow confident in contributing.
C. Preach Boldly and Without Compromise
2 Timothy 4:2 – Preach the Word in season and out of season.
Pastors must challenge lukewarm Christianity with the whole gospel message, calling believers to authentic worship and sacrificial service.
D. Create Space for the Spirit to Move
Leaders can schedule time for prayer, testimonies, and spontaneous worship, allowing the Spirit to work freely.
Illustration: During a revival service 1906 at Azusa Street, people would pray, worship, and testify without strict schedules. The results were life-changing encounters with God.
E. Address Fear and Unbelief
Teach the congregation that the gifts of the Spirit are for today (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) and that God works through the ordinary and extraordinary for His glory.
4. The Rewards of "Normal" Church Services
A. Spiritual Growth
Believers are strengthened and encouraged (1 Corinthians 14:3-5).
B. Evangelistic Impact
When the Spirit is at work, the world takes notice. In Acts 2, 3,000 were saved in one day because of what they witnessed in the church.
C. Unity and Joy
The early church had "glad and generous hearts" (Acts 2:46). Joy and love overflow when God's design is followed.
Conclusion: Restoring the Normal Church Service
The New Testament gives us a blueprint for influential, Spirit-filled gatherings but requires us to overcome fear, apathy, and tradition. The question is: will we trust God enough to pursue the "normal" church service?
Call to Action: Let us commit to prayer, participation, and the Spirit's leading. Let's restore the church to its biblical design—not for our comfort, but for God's glory and the world's salvation.
Prayer: Lord, help us desire Your presence above all else. Restore Your Church to its whole purpose and power. Teach us to embrace Your ways and not settle for less. Amen.
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