1. The Christian and Public Worship (7)
God’s Word in the Assembly

2. Our Best in Worship
As in every aspect of our lives as Christians, God deserves our best efforts in our worship to Him
Every act of worship must be done “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24)
Thus far we have addressed the Lord’s Supper, giving, singing and prayer
Today we address our God’s word in our assembly

3. God’s Word in our Assemblies
How can we know what to do if we don’t have His word?
Acts 2:42
Acts 20:7, Paul preached till midnight.
1 Corinthians 14:3-4,…
1 Thessalonians 5:27 Colossians 4:16

4. God’s Word in our Assemblies
The nature of God’s word
It IS the word of God!
Much of the “truth” of preaching is that what we preach is TRUTH!
Matthew 28: John 17: Timothy 3:16-17
Psalm 19:7

5. God’s Word in our Assemblies
Preach the word!
Romans 10:14-17
2 Timothy 4:2
Preach the word
In season and out of season
Reprove, rebuke and exhort

6. God’s Word in our Assemblies
Preach the whole counsel of God
Acts 20:27
2 Timothy 2:15, rightly dividing the word of truth

7. God’s Word in our Assemblies
Bible reading
A fundamental part of the worship of Israel. Cf. Luke 4:16-18
1 Thess. 5:27
1 Peter 4:11, realization God is speaking
1 Timothy 4:13

8. God’s Word in our Assemblies
Bible reading
Consider introducing the context. Cf. Nehemiah 8:8
Bible reading reminds that we are here to hear what God has to say. It is not about what I think or a commentary.

9. God’s Word in our Assemblies
Bible classes
Another way to learn God’s word coming together. We will discuss this in our next lesson!

10. God’s Word in our Assemblies
Listening to God’s word
When the Bible is read or taught, someone needs to hear. Cf. 1 Corinthians 14
Romans 10:17, faith comes by hearing the word of God.
Matthew 11:15, 13:9 – “He who has an ear, let him hear.”
We need to listen well!

11. God’s Word in Spirit
Various attitudes needed
Presented in love - Ephesians 4:15
It is about God’s word, not how talented we are - 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
Received in faith – 1 Thess. 2:13, Heb. 11:6

12. God’s Word in Spirit
Various attitudes needed
Received with meekness and humility - James 1:21, Acts 17:11
Intend to apply it – James 1:22-23, Matthew 7:24…

13. Handling God’s Word Well
Preachers and teachers
Make the message about His word! 1 Peter 4:11
Know what you are talking about – 2 Timothy 2:15
Document what you are saying with scripture (Don’t assume others know where it is at or about the account)

14. Handling God’s Word Well
Preachers and teachers
Keep it in proper context 2 Peter 3:16, 2 Timothy 2:15
Practice presenting your message – be familiar with your message
Speak loudly and clearly and with confidence!
Live what you preach - Romans 2:21-24, 1 Timothy 4:16

15. Handling God’s Word Well
Reading God’s Word
Much of what has been said applies here as well
Read it ahead of time and beware of the context
IF helpful, print our your text (larger, etc.)
Read loudly and confidently
Use inflection (but not drama)

16. Handling God’s Word Well
Listening to God’s Word
Show respect! Cf. Nehemiah 8:5
Be ready to listen – Acts 10:33, Ezra 7:10 – prepare you heart to seek the law of the Lord, Acts 17:11

17. Handling God’s Word Well
Listening to God’s Word
Pay attention. Listen well! It requires mental effort to concentrate!
Open your Bibles! Acts 17:11
Take notes (or follow along)
Be careful of distractions, especially at the end as we are preparing to sing invitation song.

18. Are we giving God our very best as we worship Him?
God’s word is powerful!
Are we giving God our very best as we worship Him?