If you look at the church in the Bible, and look at church as you see it now, what do you see missing? Acts 2:42-47 says the early church was dedicated to four things, and I think, no matter what our worship service looks like, the devotion to these four things in equal measure will help us look like the church we're supposed to be: The Apostles Teaching: They were devoted to the word. They heard the word as Jesus taught it to the disciples, and then devoted themselves to living it out! THey did not looik to applying it to their situation, they took the pure, undiluted word of God and changed their lives to conform to it. The Fellowship: They were devoted to one another. They sought after one another's welfare, and sought to build the body up, to the point where fellowship and meeting one another's deeds was 1/4 of their worship!
The Breaking of Bread: They focused on the Holy Communion, and dining with one another. Have you noticed some of Jesus' most intimate moments were while dining? There's something special that happens when we share a meal together. The Prayers: They prayed! They didn't care if people thought their prayers were effective or not. They believed God, and they spoke to Him! Doing these things in equal measure will help us to look like the church as it is described in the word. What are you dedicated to that keeps you from godly dedication?
Acts 2:42-47 English Standard Version (ESV)
The Fellowship of the Believers
42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe[a] came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Footnotes:
Acts 2:43 Or fear
