The Elements of Worship
Each week in our worship leader team meeting we discuss up-coming services, the theological content and logistics of each service. In the last few years we have also paid close attention to the elements of each service and if those elements lead us through a conversation of worship that is Christ-centered. No matter the style of the service we plan, we have determined that it is important to make sure that the list of elements below are included. (One exception is 'communion.' Although we present the message of Christ's sacrifice we do not present and take the communion elements each week. We are working to observe this ordinance on a more frequent schedule.)In some traditions this list becomes the non-flexible road map for the Christ-centered worship service. We however use these words as a guide, a checks-n-balance system that helps keep us focused on telling the God story.
“Adoration recognition that God is great
Confession realization that we are sinners
Assurance blessing that we can be forgiven
Petition invitation to request from God
Thanksgiving voicing of praise
Instruction learning about God from His Word
Communion celebrating and remembering the sacrifice resulting in forgiveness
Charge departing to be the church ”
If you are a worship leader, are you able to include all these elements in each of your worship services?
Do you use another guide to plan your worship services?