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PATHWAYS (Writing a Worship Service)

Services

(#6) "Problem. . . Solution"


Worship Service #6

The need for "Atonement" is a central concern of worship. But the Biblical picture of the "barriers" between God and us is rich and varied. The following chart suggests a number of ways in which Scripture explains our "problem(s)" and "need(s)," and how God responds to them.

This structure of "problem...solution" can be used to shape worship services in many different ways, to stress, address and celebrate different aspects of what God does in making us his own. . . his worshipers.

Problem Solution Means
unclean, impure, unholy
washing, cleansing
blood, water, (oil), fire, new clothes
enemies,rebels (at war),
lawbreakers (vs. King)
overcome, reconciles/makes peace, forgives; new covenant (law on heart)
Christ punished as "lawbreaker"
idolatry [and 'adultery'], "desires" (seeking self, loving world)
idols shattered, idolaters cleansed, new hearts/desires
proud, trust in self
humbles (then lifts up)
humbled (serves)
enslaved
ransoms, redeems
blood, 'mighty hand'
'in the depths,' oppressed
lifts up, seats with princes
descends to the depths
weak, sick, wounded
healing
water, oil; 'wounded for us'
under curse
blesses
takes the curse, shame
dead
raises to life
die, rise in HIM
grieving, sorrowing
gives hope, joy; takes away the "shroud", dries our tears
carries our sorrows
lost, far away, wandering/straying (in desert, dark)[sheep, children, wife]
seeks, draws back [Shepherd, Father, Husband]
'draw near' by the blood/cross
blind
opens eyes
naked
clothes, 'righteousness', 'best robe'
takes our shame
hungry, thirsty (in desert)
feeds, leads to waters (from his throne, Rock), spreads a banquet [on his mt, in desert], Bread of life,
drinks the bitter cup

Note that many of these categories reflect Biblical stories, and the many different ways that in which God overcomes "barriers." It is helpful in worship to use not just the 'abstract' categories, but to reflect on (or even tell) these stories or redemption, all the while understanding these individual stories as part of the greater story of Creation-Fall-Redemption, the Exodus, and most of all the work of Christ.


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© 1999 Bruce L. Johnson