By way of Introduction
Because many people are somewhat reluctant to visit a church without knowing something about it, we have prepared this information to help you understand more about us. They are designed to draw you closer to God and provide an atmosphere that will allow you to worship God in Spirit and in truth. (John 4:24}
Since all we do is governed by the word of God, you will find us
observing only those things contained therein. We shall do our best to duplicate and pattern after the early church of the Bible in everything we do. The following is a list and explanation of each item of worship. Singing. To many our song service will be different from that customarily practiced in many churches. No mechanical instruments of music are used. As Christians we are commanded to sing and make melody in our heart. (Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16) Because of this, we feel it would be an addition to His Will if we added and employed instruments of music. The songs will be selected so as to stir within you a desire to obedience and spiritual enjoyment. We encourage you to sing along with us. Teaching. The teaching service will be handled by men only, speaking one at a time. The women will remain silent. Not because we think they are inferior mentally, but because Paul forbid them to speak in I Corinthians 14:35. The teaching is designed to instruct and exhort you in the ways of righteousness. You are invited to follow the speaker in the Bible as he presents the lesson. We feel sure you will leave greatly benefited from his instruction. Contribution. The collection or contribution is taken only at the Lord's Day worship service. (I Corinthians 16:1-2) At this time each disciple gives of his means as he has been prospered and as he purposed in his heart. The Lord's Supper. Or the communion, is observed just as it was the night of our Lord's betrayal. It is a joint participation of each disciple in the body and blood of Christ. (I Corinthians 10:16) The Brother waiting on the table will give thanks for the bread, break a piece from it, eat, and pass it on to another until the whole assembly has broken. (Acts 20:7) He will then take the cup, give thanks, sup, and pass it on to each disciple until all drink. This is the simple pattern given in the New Testament and repeated at this congregation every first day of the week. (Matthew 26:26-28}
Prayer. The prayer will be led by a male member of the congregation and is designed to thank God for His blessings and request His continued watch-care over us. Now that we have introduced you to our worship and its observance, perhaps you would like to know something about the people present. THE PEOPLE ARE CHRISTIANS ONLY
According to Acts 11:26, the disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. The confusion and division in the religious world has resulted in party names and creeds. We have no creed but Christ, accept no book but the Bible, and wear no name but Christian. We believe that when we preach the Bible only, we will be Christians only. YOU WILL NEVER BE EMBARRASSED
At each service, an invitation song will be sung. Those wishing to become Christians are invited to step forward and let their desires be made known. One who believes in Christ 11:6), Repents of his sins (Luke 13:3), Confesses 10:9-10), and is Baptized into Christ (Galatians ), is added to the church. (Acts 2:47) And by virtue of this obedience is a recognized member of the Lord's church. However, this action is voluntary on the part of the one desiring to become a Christian. You will never be singled out for public attention or embarrassment. YOU WILL ALWAYS FIND A FRIENDLY WELCOME
Solomon said, "He who would have friends must first show himself friendly." For this reason, the people of this congregation will greet you with a friendly smile and warm welcome. Every visitor at this place is an honored guest. We hope you will visit us in the near future. A cordial invitation is always extended and a gracious welcome always awaits.
