Philip is an exceptional example of vocational evangelism. Philip is the one who told Nathanael about Jesus and when questioned his response is one we can all use: “Nathanael said to him, ‘Can anything good come out of Nazareth?’ Philip said to him, ‘Come and see’” (John 1:46).
As we have the opportunity to give an answer for the hope that we have in Jesus we too can invite others to “Come and see Jesus.” When the opportunity happens that we can invite them to come to Divine Service, it is at that time that we explain what Divine Service means. We take the time to explain that Divine Service is God coming to us to give us the good gifts and blessings He desires to give. Divine Service is not entertainment, it is not our favorite genre’ or style, it is not our doing something for God, nor offering something to Him, rather it is His coming to us and our response of faith through the responsive readings and hymns.
Our Divine Service may seem different maybe even intimidating to someone who has never been. Thus, it is imperative that we explain the parts of the service along with the appropriate responses and behavior of the worshiper. Actually it may be quite comforting for the uninitiated to know what is and what is not required of them in the Divine Service.
It might be helpful to explain the reason the church is built and set up the way it is, with altar, pulpit, lectern, baptismal font, etc. It might help to explain the Pastor’s robes. And certainly it might be helpful to explain the various parts of the Divine Service and why we do the things we do and how the parts of the service are connected to what we believe according to God’s Word.
As our friends “Come and see” Jesus in the Divine Service their worship will be enhanced as through the means of grace in the Divine Service God gives them forgiveness of their sins, strengthens and keeps them in faith.
26 of 52 © Rev. Dr. Ronald A. Bogs (2018)
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