WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT WHEN YOU WORSHIP WITH US
We are so excited that you chose to check us out, and we want you to feel comfortable. So, let us tell you what you can expect when you honor us with a visit.
OUR BACKGROUND
We are a part of “The Restoration Movement.” We are interested in restoring the church as it was in the beginning (Matthew 16:16–18; Acts 2:36–47). This approach gives honor to no man; it pays homage to Christ only. We are independent, self-governing congregations with Christ alone as Head of the church (Ephesians 1:21–23). Since Christ is in heaven, and is Head of the church, we have no earthly headquarters. We desire to be Bible-centered and we try to be. Our only creed is the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16, 17; 1 Peter 4:11). We have great respect for the Bible, as it is the only authority in religion today. Now, let us take you through a worship service.
THE WORSHIP SERVICE
The worship service is designed to be pleasing to God and beneficial to each worshiper. Our purpose is to worship God in spirit and in truth (John 4:24) and to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). As you enter the auditorium there are rows of pews for worshipers. There are no reserved seats, so feel free to sit where you wish.
SINGING
In the bookrack in front of you, are hymnbooks for your use. We welcome you to sing with us if you wish. One of the things you will find unique is that we sing without the use of musical instruments. The word “acapella” means, “as in church.” History tells us that there were no musical instruments in worship until AD 670. This is a matter of conscience with us, not preference. We are seeking to worship according to the pattern in God’s Word. You might consider this to be a narrow viewpoint, but we believe you will respect our reason for it.
PRAYERS
There will be several prayers during the worship service. Some will be for specific requests and needs.
THE LORD’S SUPPER
When you worship with us on Sunday, the Lord’s Supper will be a part of the worship. This “memorial” is observed every Sunday, as did the first century church (Acts 20:7). During this memorial, plates containing unleavened bread will be passed to the worshipers. The bread is a symbol of the body of Jesus. Following that, small cups containing grape juice will be passed, symbolizing His shed blood (1 Corinthians 11:23–26). If you choose not to participate, feel free to just pass the plate or tray on to the next person.
OFFERING
Following the Lord’s Supper, plates will be passed to collect the weekly financial offering. This offering is used for the preaching of the gospel and assisting the needy (Mark 6:15, 16: 1 Corinthians 16:1; James 1:27). As our guest, you are not expected to make a donation. Feel perfectly comfortable in simply passing the plate to the next person in the row.
INVITATION
At the close of the sermon the preacher will offer an invitation. This is simply a convenient time to invite those who desire to make a commitment to Christ, prayer requests, or place membership with us. The preacher will encourage those who wish to respond to come to the front as the congregation sings. Again, don’t feel ill at ease during this invitation. There might be several, or none, who respond. If one comes to confess Christ and to be baptized, you will witness the baptism, during the service. The baptism will be by immersion in water, for the remission sins (Acts 2:38; 8:26–40; Romans 6:3–6).
WHAT WILL BE EXPECTED OF YOU?
Nothing at all! You are welcome to participate in our worship, but don’t feel obligated to. You may be asked to fill out a visitor’s card. This provides us the information in regard to how we might be of service to you. Again, feel free to decline the request.
THE PEOPLE
What kind of people are we? Pretty much like a cross section of the community. You will find happy people—some not so happy; warm and friendly people—some not so warm and friendly. Loving people—people who are learning to walk with the Lord. You get the idea? We are a diverse group coming from different backgrounds, and at different stages of knowledge and spiritual growth (1 Peter 2:1–3; 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:12–15). We don’t know everything, we don’t always do everything right. We don’t always treat others, as we should. We haven’t arrived; we are just on a journey. We have been brought together by recognition that we are sinners in need of Christ’s cleansing blood (Matthew 26:26–28; Romans 5:1, 2). That is the reason we can worship together, stick together, and with God’s help accomplish some things that make a difference. You will not have to look far to find our failures. Bottom line, you will find everyday people who love Jesus and His word.