WRSP 502
BOOK REPORT
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 1: Introduction
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this chapter, Webber states modern worship in the church today stands
at a crossroad. The age-old “worship wars” start here with the battle between
traditional and modern, otherwise known as old and new. Despite this ongoing
war, Webber’s approach that he supports in this book is a “blended” approach, and
attempt at blending the different styles of worship, which allows the vast majority
of congregants to feel at ease.
Webber continues in this chapter by pointing out general characteristics of
old and new worship. Old and new worship examines old questions about
worship, has the capacity to learn from the surrounding worshiping community,
shows a respect for the past, and commits to contemporary relevance. He then
describes specific characteristics in regard to old and new worship: it is
committed to the Scriptures as the foundation for the worship studies, approaches
the history of the church’s worship with great respect, and recognizes theology as
a discipline that reflects on its experience (13-14).
Finally, Webber concludes this chapter by discussing the practice of old
and new worship. He believes that the old and new and be blended into a “joyful
experience of worship,” explaining that this type of worship will draw on a broad
range of musican content and sstyle, the arts, a recovery of the feasts of the
Christian year, and will be enriched by the sacred actions that bring us into the
church (14).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
As a worship pastor of a blended congregation in both age and ethnicity, I
100% agree with the old and new worship approach that Webber supports. I
believe that we truly cannot make every person happy in our congregations, and
we should not strive to. However, a blended approach is the best way to ensure
that church members feel they are being listened to and have an opportunity to
enter into the form of worship in which they most identify with.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
The “worship wars” may never end, but incorporating both old and new is the
smartest way to keep a congregation continuing to worship Him.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 2: Biblical Themes in Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
“Worship is not something tangential to the Christian story but a matter
that lies at the very heart of the Christ Scriptures from the beginning to the end”
(19). No matter what narrative or passage, Webber explains that worship is always
at the center.
Webber describes that “the fundamental nature of biblical worship, the
epicenter from which all the facts of worship proceed, is an event” (20). The event
orientation of biblical worship ensures that God always saves us, and that is why
we worship Him. Next, the covenantal nature of biblical worship “was laid down
in the establishment of the covenant itself” (23). This is where God makes a
binding covenant with the people Israel – the beginning of a long journey in
which Israel would fall into sin and God would continue to renew His promise to
them. Webber continues to explain the covenantal importance to worship by
detailing the obedience to the book of the covenant and the sacrificial nature of
biblical worship, as well as specifying the appointed times and places of biblical
worship.
Webber then switches the narrative and states that not only does God
initiate a relationship through salvation, but we must respond to His initiative.
First, “the theme of remembering is central to biblical worship” because “the
people of God remember His saving deeds by telling and acting out the story of
redemption” (27). Next, the people of God must anticipate, celebrate and worship
God through “sign-acts,” both through ordinances of the church and from the
heart.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
I believe it is incredibly important to know the various biblical themes in
regard to worship if we want to call ourselves worship leaders. If we are to lead a
congregation into worship, we must first know what worship is and why we do it.
Because God initiated a relationship with us and still does to this day, we should
continue to respond to Him in worship and in various ways that bring Him glory
and honor.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Biblical worship is imperative for us to know the history of as worshipers.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 3: Old Testament Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
During the Old Testament, biblical worship was centered on sacred space,
sacred rituals, and sacred ministry. Webber describes how God develops His
relationship with Israel through worship in the sacred spaces of the tabernacle and
the temple. Worship in the Old Testament looked vastly different than our modern
forms of worship, including festivals and sacrifices reveling the “remembrance,
anticipation, celebration, and service lay for Israel’s response to God” (38).
During the time of Moses, God commanded the Israelites to build a
tabernacle so He could dwell amongst His people. The tabernacle’s purpose was
at the center of the camp and was to show the Lord’s kingly presence over the
Israelites. During the time of David, he had plans to construct a temple, but it was
not finished until he had passed on and Solomon became king. During this time,
there were three festivals recognized in the worship of the early church: the
Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacle festivals. The synagogue was built due to the
destruction of the temple and Jerusalem.
Webber continues the discussion on Old Testament worship by explaining
synagogue worship. The Synagogue was built due to the destruction of the temple
and provided a place to worship while the Israelites were exiled. Synagogue
worship was quite different because there were no sacred rituals or sacred
ministry. Instead, it focused on “reading and understanding the Word of God”
(37).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
It is important to know the Old Testament history of worship because it
created how we worship in today’s society. The sacrifices, offerings, festivals and
places of sacred worship all show the immense fear and respect the Israelites had
for the Lord in regard to their worship. This type of liturgical worship is very
different from most current models in the local church, but the beauty of its
structure and ritual gives us a new appreciation for the Israelites and how they
saw God in those early days.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Old Testament worship is beautifully important in the story of God and how He
continues to redeem His people.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 4: New Testament Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
During the New Testament, biblical worship was centered on Jesus Christ
and the New Covenant that was established after His death and resurrection.
Webber describes how New Testament worship pis more difficult to research
because there is not detailed statement on worship during this time period.
Instead, there are “brief descriptions provided by hymns, confessions,
benedicitons, doxologies and subtle hints in words descriptive of worship” (41).
However, some great data came forth from the fragmented documents to provide
our current knowledge on New Testament worship as a whole.
In this chapter, Webber attempts to answer two questions: “what is the
baisis of New Testament worship” and “what descriptions of worship emerge”
(41). He then describes Jesus’ attitude on worship and the Christ event, essentially
the “second Exodus” (42). Next, Webber describes emerging Christian worship in
the early Jerusalem and Diaspora churches, detailing the different types of
worship between the two cities. He ends the chapter by explaining worship of the
apostolic period, stating that during this time, worship became more structured
and formed orders of services.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Although the evidence for New Testament is more few and far between
than Old Testament, we gain a lot of wisdom from Jesus and the early church on
how to worship in today’s world. Since we no longer have to offer sacrifices and
burnt offerings as a form of worship, we should be eternally grateful that we can
approach the thronw with boldness and worship Jesus in whatever form we think
pleases Him.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
New Testament worship is beautifully full of hymns and Scriptures, bringing
about authenticity and appreciation for Jesus and His sacrifice for us.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 5: Early Christian Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this chapter, Webber discusses the worship practices recorded by Pliny,
the Didache and Justin, considering the New Testament origins during this time
(51). Even though there are limited specifics concerning second century worship,
Webber states that it was vital to the early church. “Worship was of such vital
importance to the early Christians that they consciously withheld information lest
they cast their pearls before the swine” (51).
First, Webber explains that the letter of Pliny was written by a Roman
governor because of the secrecy of worship at this time. In the letter, he wanted to
know “what Christians did when they gathered together for worship” (51).
Second, the Didache, “an early church manual,” provided instructions on how the
church was to operate in regard to worship (52). Justin also wrote the document,
“The First Apology,” sharing information about the structure of Christian worship
and its meaning to the church.
Webber concludes the chapter by discussing the New Testament origins of
the two-part structure of Christian worship, including the reading of the Word and
the Lord’s Supper. Baptism was also a part of second century worship, claiming
that “a person identifies with the death and resurrection of Jesus and enters into
the worship life of the church” through this sign-act (61).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
The two-part structure to the worship service, the service of the Word and
the service of the Lord’s Supper, are vitally important to the body of Christ.
Scripture and prayer should be the central to our worship, and the Lord’s supper
reminds us of the beauty and tragedy of Jesus’ death. I believe that baptism is
vitally important as well as it serves as a testimony to the church that someone has
been reborn and is a part of the family of God, leaving the old things behind and
ready to start afresh. All of these ways of worshiping the Lord are still a part of
our modern worship services today, and there is a very good reason why they are
still held in high importance.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Early Christian worship has similar attributes to our current worship, and we
never need to stray from the beauty of those attributes.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 6: Worship is the Gospel in Motion
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this chapter, Webber describes that “worship is the action that brings the
Christ event into the experience of the community gathered in the name of Jesus”
(67). This is made possible because of three implications – worship recapitulates
the Christ event, worship actualizes the church, and worship anticipates the
kingdom.
First, recapitulation means to sum up or to repeat, and our worship should
be retelling the Gospel story over and over. This recapitulation should take place
on different levels – in heaven, on earth, and in our hearts. Second, the
actualization of the church in worship contains the view of these two arguments:
all the physical signs of Christ’s presence in the church should be evident, and
these signs represent a spiritual reality. Third, because our worship anticipates the
kingdom, it will “express the tension between Christ’s resurrection and his return”
(69). This tension is expressed in the Word and also in the Last Supper, which will
take during the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. This chapter is summed up in the
fact that the root of worship is the works of Jesus Christ in our heart and in His
church.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
We are nothing if we do not have Jesus Christ in our lives and in our
hearts. Because of what He did and is continuing to do, we have hope that we can
live together with Him in heaven when earth passes away. Because of this, that
hope shapes the way we worship while we are still on this earth in between the
“now and not yet.”
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Our worship finds its beginning and end in the personhood and workings of Jesus
Christ.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 7: Worship is the Gospel Enacted
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In the opening line of this chapter, Webber states that “worship is a
dramatic enactment of the relationship that we have with God, a relationship that
stems from historical events” (73). He describes that just as we celebrate holidays
and annual celebrations through rituals and gestures, we communicate of the
meaning of the person or event. In the same way, we should enact the Gospel
message in our lives like any other holiday or celebration, such as baptism and the
communion.
Webber then states that “the root of the principle of enactment is in the
Scriptures” (73). He says we should be lifting up our worship, or enacting the
Gospel, through recitation using creeds, hymns, and preaching. We should also be
enacting through drama using Old and New Testament enactment through
dramatic presentations and using the nature of worship as a dramatic enactment as
well.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
The different forms of enactment were very interesting to read about in
this chapter. I really liked how Webber went into the “nitty gritty” of the
recitations (creeds, hymns, and preaching). The creed is a statement that
summarizes or compresses the events or beliefs into a statement about God. It
reminds us of the history we have with Him and how He continues to redeem us.
Hymns “recount the events that give shape to the Christian faith” (77). This is
another tool of how we can praise Him by reminding ourselves of His good
works. I love how Webber then describes how preaching brings the past into the
present. Preaching tells the story of God and is the best tool for salvation.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Through these various techniques of worship, we can enact the Gospel message,
and thus, God’s presence, into our worship gatherings.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 8: Worship is the Gospel Enacted Through Forms and Signs
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this chapter, Webber describes the theological basis of forms of
enacting the Gospel message, creation, revelation, and incarnation, followed by
discussing the different kinds of signs and symbols that go along with this
enactment.
First, creation is the product of God’s image and action, a work from the
Creator, so to reject the work is reject the Creator (85). Next, revelation is a form
considering the “communication of spiritual truth” (87). God communicates
Himself through nature, historical events, and the institutions of worhip. Finally,
“the doctrine of incarnation is the focal point for a theology of form,” for it refers
to the Word becoming flesh in John 1 (87). The form of worship, in this instance,
is determined by three considerations: it is bound by the rules of order, it should
follow the sequence of God’ work in history, and it should move people to praise
him in “doxologies, humns, prayers, confessions, creeds and offerings” (88).
The author finishes this chapter with discussing the various signs and
symbols in regard to enacting the Gospel message. Signs are defined as “a
language that communicates more than what is seen by the eye” (88). There is the
language of everyday speech, science, and poetry. Some symbols also mentioned
were the Bible, the pulpit, the table, the baptismal font or pool and the cross. All
these symbols have “external, internal and spritiaul qualities” (89).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Because we worship a God that is not in material form on the earth, we
must find forms, signs and symbols to represent the Gospel and use them for
methods of worship. Just as Christ used parables as a method to communicate to
His followers, we can use these forms of worship to communicate our praise and
worship to God.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Forms, signs and symbols are of utmost importance in our communication with
the Lord as an act of worship.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 9: Ancient and Medieval Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Webber describes worship in the third century as being intimate and
simple in nature. Like the second century church, “Christians continued to
worship in homes and continued the practice of hearing the Word and celebrating
the table” (95).
The fourth and fifth century ensued dramatic changes after the Constantine
conversion, sanctioning the next era we now know as “classic Christianity” (96).
Because of this, ecclesiastical centers were established in certain cities, creating
different styles of worship over time. Eastern liturgy was considered “highly
ceremonial, gloriously beautiful, and deeply mystical” (99). In Western liturgy,
the Roman rite was the standard approach to worship, creating a tendency toward
simplicity in both order and symbols (101).
Webber concludes this chapter by discussing medieval worship, including
the two types of worship formed in the fourth and fifth centuries – worship as a
mystery in regard to the established church and worship as devotion in the
monastic movement (102).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
The last quote of the chapter really spoke to me: “…we ought not allow
worship to be accommodated to current cultural norms to such an extent that
worship loses its meaning” (106). During the ancient and medieval periods,
worship succumbed to current culture, not keeping the balance of maintaining
worship for what it truly means. We must never let worship become too much like
the culture around us, but we must also keep in mind that in order to reach the
lost, we cannot completely stay in old traditional models. A balance of old and
new is vital in these scenarios.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
The balance of culture and the church must be carefully well-adjusted as to not
change the meaning of what worship truly is.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 10: Reformation and Free Church Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
During the time of the Reformation, leaders like Luther and Calvin desired
to “strip the church of unnecessary traditions and return it to the purity of the
early church, both in doctrine and in worship” (109). Over time, Chrisitianity
became all about religion and tradition and less about the meaning behind it, so
something had to be done. Free Church tradition consisted of American
experiment, tolerance, individualism, and pluralism, bringing vast change to the
once traditional forms of worship (109). Reformers rejected the Mass, Roman
prayers, and the doctrine of transubstantiation, and desired the restoration of the
Word and that worship should be in the vernacular, keeping the validity of the
reading of the Word and communion.
Free Church worship considered “the understanding of how salvation is
received” (114). Previously, salvation had always been connected to baptism. In
the Free Church movement, baptism became a public declaration of faith to
fellow believers rather than “God’s action,” changing the view of salvation into
“faith in Jesus Christ and the worship of God were to happen in the mind or in the
heart” (114).
Webber then explains the new convictions of worship. First, the
antiliturgical movement was just that – anti-liturgy. “It argues that all ceremonies
and formed have been abolished by the new covenant,” simplifying worship into a
more spiritual form, not dependent on sacraments or symbols (115). Pedagogical
worship “stressed the need for understanding the Word of God,” including full
chapters and Psalms as responsive readings as an act of worship in gatherings.
Finally, evangelistic worship “emphasized personal experience” (117). It centered
on the experience of the believer with God rather than corporate action of the
church with the main concern being evangelism.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
The Reformers’ innovations to worship and the church are still important
centuries later. If it weren’t for those brave frontrunners, who knows what our
culture would look like within the church and our faith as well? It is good to
remind ourselves the beauty in simplicity of worship and the Word, just like the
Reformation brought to the world.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
God is pleased with our worship when we strip away the trappings of the world.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 11: Worship Renewal in the Twentieth Century
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
The twentieth century survived misery, famine, and wars, which made it
“one of the most turbulent centuries in modern history” (121). However, despite
its difficulties, worship boomed into a new era, epitomizing the supernatural in
regard to worship. This new period of worship brought upon the holiness-
Pentecostal movement. These worshipers were overwhelmed by the move of the
Holy Spirit and became even more encouraged with the gift of speaking in
tongues. Worship was expressed with freedom, joy, and spontaneity, along with
praying and singing in the Spirit.
At this same time, reform in the liturgical Roman Catholic church was also
taking place. Webber describes their worship as worship that “proclaims, enacts
and celebrates the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and His victory over
sin, death and the powers of evil” (125). On the other hand, in the mainline
Protestant churches, reform looked like producing new worship materials and a
worship manifesto that explained much needed reforms that needed to happen
since barely no change had transpired since the Reformation.
The Charismatic and Jesus movements of the mid-twentieth century still
have made worship what it is today. The convergence of worship traditions,
including liturgical, evangelical and charismatic, have its benefits and concerns,
but all in all, the author’s main point is that no matter what traditions are kept and
thrown out between the denominations, the continuation of “personal salvation,
biblical teacehing and the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit” are vital (133).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
So far, this chapter has been the most applicable to the church of today. I
cannot thank the reform of the twentieth century, especially the Pentecostal
movement, enough for the church I am on staff at today. We would not worship
the way we do and connect as a congregation the way we do if it weren’t for that
beautiful time in history. Webber did a fantastic job explaining the merge of
different worship traditions in a way that made sense and makes you appreciate
what we all have in common and what makes us different.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Praise and worship is the way it is today because of the twentieth century worship
movements and the newfound appreciation of the Holy Spirit.t
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 12: The Environmental Setting of Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Weber beings this chapter explaining that Christ followers have always
found places to worship God, including fields, homes, caves, temples, prisons,
and even ships. It was left up to believers to discover places and spaces of
worship that made it easy for them to connect to God. Because of this, “the
church has long acknowledged that what we do in worship ought to be expressed
in the way we use space” (137). The theological bases for the use of space in
worship include a redemptive understanding of space, a biblical support for the
spiritual undersatsnding of space, and the stewardship of space in worship.
In regard to the use of space in the history of Christian worship,
synagogues were used in Jerusalem, comprising of the Ark, a veil, menorah,
lectern, bema, seats of the elders and seats for the congregation (139). In the
Syrian church, some of the same elements were used but had a different formation
(141). In the Roman Basilica, The seats and the altar were facing East with the
ambos and schola in front (142). In the Medieval church, the main altar and setats
were “on stage,” stalls for lower clergy below, and side altars for church goers
(143). The setting of worship in contemporary churches, however, includes
musicians/choir on the platform, the pulpit at the front, and the congregants sitting
in a semicircle. However we worship, Webber states that is “needs to be
redemptive space” (146).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
The space for worship, otherwise known as “setting the atmosphere,” is
incredibly vital for worshipers to understand. A limitation of distractions and
appropriate methods of entering into worship make for a beautiful opportunity for
people to connect to the Lord. The space in which we choose to worship should
make it easy on any congregant to enter into His presence.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
It is important for us to know that the setting of our worship determines the
worship experience.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 13: Content, Structure and Style
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Webber makes his point clear in the first few words of this chapter: “the
primary factor in worship concenrs not the structure, nort the style, but the
content. Judgment about a particular style of worship must be concerned chiefly
with the content of the worship” (149). The content of our worship should be
scripturally based and theologically sound. Otherwise, “it cease to be Christian
worship” (150).
Structure in worship is also a factor, but less important than content.
Webber states that if we are to structure our gatherings like that of the early
church, we should be concerned with the four basic acts of Sunday worship:
assembling, hearing God’s Word, responding at the Eucharist and being sent forth
(150).
Style, however, is where those four acts of Sunday worship are played out.
It is the setting of the tone for worship to happen inside the church. Webber
explains that the style of worship should not only comfortable for churchgoers but
also reflect the personality and characteristics of what the church represents.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Webber’s thoughts on the content, structure, and style of a church’s
worship are most profound. Content should far exceed the importance of the other
two concerns, and it should always reflect Scripture and sound doctrine. If a
church’s worship is not concerned with content as much as structure and style,
they will be producing songs that are against what the Bible teaches and more
about the fleeting feelings of humans.
However, in regard to structure, I believe the worship should be in order
because God is not a God of disorder, and we should honor Him with our
excellence. Paul states in 1 Corinthians that we should have order in our worship
so that those who are unbelievers can receive the Word and become saved and not
distracted. In saying this, I also believe that the style should fit the personality of
the church and also take great concern with pleasing the Lord and not just the
people in attendance.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Worship should be mostly based on content, then structure and style.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 14: Assemble the People
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Like previously mentioned in chapter 13, for worship to take place in the
church, the first act is to assemble the people. In the early church, “the assembly
was interpreted as the body of Christ coming together” (153). Webber explains
that worship leaders need to keep in mind that the gathering of the people is the
call of God and the response of His people. He then describes the three examples
of the acts of worship in the assembling of the people.
In the traditional acts of assembling, the people prepared their hearts for
worship by entering the gathering in silence. It entails “meditation, preparation
and openness” (155). Followed by this is a hymn and procession. Then follows a
greeting, otherwise known as the call to worship. Next is a prayer or invocation,
followed by responses and the continuation of the service. In the contemporary
ordering of the assembly, many congregations use either the five-phase worship
pattern, describing the invitation, engagement, exaltation, adoration, and intimacy
phases, or the four-phase worship pattern that follows the pattern of the Old
Testament tabernacle –courtyard, outer court, inner court and the holy of holies
(159-160).
Webber finishes up this chapter by describing the convergence of the
traditional and contemporary assemblies, including churches that sing gathering
songs ten to twenty minutes before the announced beginning of the service,
churches that follow the traditional pattern of assembling but in the place of
Gloria, and drawing together the acts of assembling and the service of the Word.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
I believe it is important to worship privately in the privacy of our own
homes or prayer closets, but there is something so powerful about the assembling
together in worship of our Lord. We are answering the call of God when we
assemble together, and it is guaranteed that the Lord’s presence is there because
He is among us when two or three are gathered, according to Scripture. However
we assemble, we must keep in mind the beauty of assembling in unity.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Do not forsake the assembling together because it is a beautiful act of response to
God.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 15: Listen and Respond to the Word
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
The Word of God must be central to any worship experience, and
everything we do needs to stem from that. In this chapter, Webber clarifies the
importance of the Bible in traditional worship while providing suggestions to
incorporate more of it in contemporary aspects.
Throughout history, preaching has come in various forms but generally
centered around the Word of God. According to Paul, “preaching in the context of
worship reenacts the event of Christ, the event that gives shape and meaning not
only to worship but also to the lives of the worshipers” (165). A traditional service
of the Word would include an Old Testament reading, a responsorial Psalm, an
Epistle reading, a hymn or anthem, the Gospel reading, a sermon, the Nicene
Creed, prayers of the people, and the passing of peace. The fundamental
configuration of this traditional service is that “God initiates and people respond,”
much like the assembly from the last chapter (166).
Finally, Webber encourages the reader to ideas incorporate into
contemporary worship apects from the traditional service of the Word. He
suggests adding more Scripture to the order of service, “making the clear
communication of Scritpure a priority,” singing psalms, developing a response to
the sermon like the Nicene Creed, intercessory prayer, and a ritual greeting (170).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Before reading this chapter, I had previously heard the term “the service of
the Word,” but I never really knew the different aspects that went into it. I was
very inspired after reading Webber’s take on all of these various methods of
worshiping in that traditional service, and I am motivated now to add more
Scripture reading and emphasis on Scripture in our order of services at my church.
The importance of Scripture needs to not just be understood but needs to
be fully restored in our services an act of worship. Many times, we assume as
ministers that people read the Word of God daily, but often times, this is far from
the truth. We need to show honor to God by reading His promises out loud and
incorporating them into our worship services weekly.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
It is impossible to worship fully without the Word of God.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 16: Remember and Give Thanks
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Webber begins this chapter discussing how the two-way action between
God and the worshiper discussed in the two previous chapters “is the underlying
structure of the service of the Eucharist” (173). The words “make Eucharist”
translate into our modern language as “give thanks,” and Webber spends the
chapter describing how the church should properly give thanks based on what the
early church did.
In the New Testament, the Eucharist suggests a seven-action scheme. First,
Jesus took the bread, He gave thanks for the bread, broke it in half, dispersed with
certain words, took the cup, gave thanks for the cup, and, finally, shared it with
the disciples while sharing wordss. This seven-action scheme during the Last
Supper brings about fourfold action of taking, blessing, breaking and giving in the
church service. “The fourfold sequence proives the framework in the essential
prayers and actions of eucharistic worship in the early church” (174).
Webber concludes this chapter by providing suggestions on applying these
elements of traditional Eucharist into contemporary worship. This includes
portions of The Common Book of Prayer and suggestions on interweaving hymns
and songs that minister during a time of communion.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Webber states at the end of the chapter that “churches have lost both the
meaning of the Eucharist and the art of its celebration,” it can certainly be
reestablished and appreciated through the avenue of worship (187). I know that
my church takes our monthly communion very seriously, but I think we can do a
better job of doing it more creatively and emphasizing it with Scriptures, songs
and prayers to enhance the experience and make it more meaningful. I agree with
Webber that “the Eucharist, properly celebrated, will shape the peoples’
spirituality and make them a people of thanksgiving” (187).
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
The service of the Eucharist cannot be forgotten, for it makes us people who learn
how to appreciate and be thankful for God’s amazing gift.
Rachel Morway
WRSP 502
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 17: Go Forth to Love and Serve the Lord
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
After detailing the three other structures of public worship, Webber ends it
with this chapter about the art of dismissal. “Like the eassembling, which
expressed movement, the dismissal also expresses movement – the vision of the
church is directed outward toward the world, rather than inward toward a special
meeting with God” (191). Webber spends the chapter comparing the traditional
structure with the dismissal in the modern contemporary church.
The early church services ended with a benediction, known as “a
pronouncement of blessing” (191). It is usually followed by a recessional hymn
that should be “marked by great joy” after being in the presence of the Lord (192).
Upon dismissal, churchgoers should be inspired to be the salt and light of the
world, taking what they absorbed in the church and sharing it with the world.
Webber’s application to the contemporary world discusses how worship is
a vision of the new creation and how it “reveals the action that the body of Christ
must take to participate in the transformation of the world” (193). Our worship
should be transformative not just for ourselves but for those around us who are
lost.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Webber’s conclusion really ministered to me: “we must always remember
that worship has a horizontal as well as a vertical dimension” (194). It can
become so easy to be “stuck in the four walls” of church and forget what the
purpose of a church service really is – to unify with other believers in the
presence of God and to minister to the unbelievers. Our Sunday services are our
best outreach opportunities for those who do not know the Lord, and we should
not be wasting our time making sure everyone inside the church is happy. We
should be ensuring that our efforts go outside the four walls into the community,
for that is what Jesus commanded us to do in His last words on this earth.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
When the church gathering has ceased, the real work of the kingdom of God
begins – reaching out to those who are lost.
Rachel Morway
WRSP 502
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 18: The Role of Music in Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Webber begins by saying “music is the wheel upon which the Word and
the Eucharist ride” (195). Music witnesses to the transcendence of God and to His
work of salvation, induces an attitude of worship, and affirms the corporate unity
of the body of Christ because it is something that the entire congregation does
together (195). The various sounds that a service of worship entails: proclamation,
rhythmic cadences, chants, acclamations and jubilus, a sound without words.
Webber then explains a brief survey of music in the history of the church
throughout each era. New Testament music included the monodic system of
chanting with cadences, congregational songs with repetition as in the antiphon
and responsory and elaborate melodies on a single vowel (197). Ancient church
music included the rise of syllabic tendencies, more highly developed music and
the development of hymnody (198). The medieval era brought forth musical
developments such as the sophistication of chant and hymnody, including
Gregorian chant (199). During the Reformation, frontrunners Luther and Calvin
revived the art of congregational singing, including a grand appreciation for
newly composed hymns and psalms (199). In the modern period, Watts and
Wesley contributed to the birth of modern hymnody, and the songs of revival
broke out (200). Finally, contemporary music ensued a type of music that was
widely due to “mass culture,” music in worship that is closely connected with
culture.
All in all, Webber concludes that music is the means through which the
church is worship joins in heavenly song, expresses the worship of proclamation,
meditiation and praise, thus affecting the attitude of the worshiper, and the use of
music has undergone a number of significant changes throughout history (202-
203).
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
Music will always be a tool that transcends language and brings
congregants together in a beautiful way. Style is always debatable amongst
congregants, but it should be known that music a major means in ushering in the
presence of the Lord and should be taken very seriously in the church.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Music should play a major role in church gatherings because it brings people
closer to Him.
WRSP 502
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 19: The Role of the Arts in Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
The various mention of arts performed as acts of worship are found all
throughout Scripture. Because humanity was made in God’s image, we have been
gifted with the gift of creativity, and the arts is a beautiful way to display that
God-given inspiration. Webber states that the greatest concentration on the arts in
Scripture is found in the Old Testament but is eliminated in the New Testament by
the abolishment of physical symbols and artistic renderings (206). Visual arts
played a lesser role than other arts, but other forms of art, including movement
and literary, were highly respected. Movement art, such as bowing, kneeing and
lifting of the hands. were seen as an important component of worship. The reading
of Psalms and other portions of Scripture were also identified as literary arts.
During the ancient church era, visual arts flourished in orthodox settings
while drama was incorporated into the service of the Eucharist and dance was
celebrated and rooted in Old Testament festival tradition (208). During the
medieval era, the appreciation of the visual arts was divided between the Eastern
church and the Orthodox Church, while more ornate architecture was preferred.
Drama was used “as a way to communicatethe stories of faith and educating the
people,” especially in regard to Holy Week (209). The celebration of dance,
however, dwindled from the life of the church because they were afraid it looked
too much like pagan dancing. In the modern era, visual arts, drama and dance
were developed largely under the influence of a humanistic and secular outlook,
but not much for the church developed in these years.
Weber concludes his chapter on the arts describing the innovations during
the twentieth century church. Various forms of visual arts, dance and drama have
emerged across congregations and denominations, showing a new appreciation for
the arts in worship.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
The arts are highly important to the church and should be respected and
passed on from generation to generation. When we craft our creativity towards
our love for God, that is a beautiful and pleasing form of worship.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
The arts in worship shows creativity, a God-given gift that should be utilized.
Rachel Morway
WRSP 502
Book Report
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 20: The Services of the Christian Year
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this chapter, Webber details the importance of commemorative time as
an act of worship. It is a time to remember Christ’s death and resurrection but
“brings the power and significance of the evenet into the worshiping community”
(217).
Webber shows how the different views of time can be considered acts of
worship. First, in the Greek view, time is described as kairos, meaning a moment
of time or special event, and chronos, meaning the time between events or a
longer period of time. In the Hebraic concept, time was definied by historical
events, emphasized by prophecy, and recognized the presence of the eternal. The
Christian synthesis three kinds of time are discerened: fulfilled time, the time of
salvation and anticipatory time.
Webber discusses the three cycles of time as well. First, the daily cycle of
time is “rooted in the worship practices of the Old Testament, where prayers were
said at various times throughout the day,” which was the basis of daily devotional
life in the church (220-21). The weekly cycle of time is based on the church’s
observance of the Sabbath, which has different interpretations depending on the
period of history being discussed. Finally, the yearly cycle of time is all based on
“the life, deal, resurrection, ascension and second coming of the Lord Jesus
Christ” and includes holidays such as Lent, Epiphany, Christmas, Ash Wednesday,
Holy Week, Easter, and Pentecost.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
I agree with Webber that there is a great need for commemorative time in
the contemporary church, even though there is not a great emphasis put on it. We
should not forget these amazing events such as Holy Week, Advent and Pentecost.
We should not forsake the Sabbath and always make it the Lord’s Day. There are
so many benefits to following the Christian calendar in all aspects of life, and our
churches need to make sure our worship experiences also follow suit.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Practicing the Christian year privately in our walks with the Lord and corporately
as the body of Christ is an important part of being a Christ follower.
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 21: The Sacred Actions of Worship
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this chapter, Webber goes into grave detail on the importance of the
church sacraments and sacred actions of worship: baptism and the Eucharist. Even
though earlier chapters touched on these topics and their historical and
contemporary importance, Webber spends this time making sure the reader knows
how they should play into modern worship experiences based on their historical
significance. “These symbols are called sacraments because they act in a
commemorative way, bringing reality that they represent to the worshiping
community and express a relationship between God and the believing worshiper
through sign-acts” (229).
Webber explains how the sacrament of baptism is a sacred action of
worship in order to enter into a life of Christ and the church body. He breaks
down the biblical roots, historical development, and the baptismal renewal of the
twentieth century. In regard to the Eucharist, Webber also explains the biblical
roots and historical development but adds theological reflection by answering four
questions: do the elements of bread and wine symbolize the offering of Jesus
Christ, how may the presentation of bread and wine by the congregation through
the minister be regarded as an offering, what effect does this offering have on the
leements of bread and wine and what effect does the notion of an offering have on
the worshipers (237)?
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
I loved how Webber ended this chapter in the last two sentences. Baptism
and the Eucharist are extremely important in the life of the church, but we must
remember the importance of the sacredness of life as well. “For God meets us not
only in the special rituals of worship but in all of life” (250). That is the balance
we Christians must be very in tune with. We need to keep the traditions of the
sacraments holy and special, but we must also invite Christ into the sacredness of
our daily lives. Otherwise, our worship inside the church means nothing.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
The key to keeping the sacraments is not only keeping them holy inside the
church but also in our personal lives outside the church and within the
community.
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 22: Worship and Related Ministries
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
Webber is quick to make sure the reader knows that the ministry of
worship is not an island to itself. “Recognizing that worship is central to the entire
life of the church, liturgical scholars have begun to explore how worship relates to
all ministries of worship” (253). Webber then breaks down the correlation
between worship and the various ministries of the church in the coming pages.
In regard to language, Webber states that the rise of the women’s
movement has caused the overall language of the church to change as to not
offend churchgoers. Along with this change in language, there as been a change in
multicultural diversity in the church as well. “Worshiping churches everywhere…
must actively seek to build churches that reflect the ethnic diversity of their area”
(254). Next, Webber discusses the importance of pastoral care, the ministry of
spirituality, and education.
Worship also coincides with the ministries of outreach, such as hospitality,
evangelism and social justice. Many times, people who are not saved will come to
know the Lord through these ministries, and they are all acts of worship that need
to be pleasing to the Lord.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
As a minister in the church, it has become clear to me over the years that
worship ministry should never be seen as a “stand alone” ministry. Every area of
the church needs to be linked to one another in some way. That is the way true
ministry can happen and change lives. We are all supposed to be in unity with the
same vision – to encourage the presence of God in people’s lives and to reach the
lost. Otherwise, we have lost the vision of the kingdom of God and need a
complete overhaul in regard to what the church stands for. “The challenge for
pastors and worship leaders is to become sensitized to the way in which worship
may touch the lives of the worshiping people and at the same time reach out to a
hurting world” (259).
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
Everything we do should be an act of worship, so every ministry of the church
should be seen as an offering of worship to the Lord and taken seriously.
Rachel Morway
Book Report
WRSP 502
WRSP 502 History and Philosophy of Worship
Webber: Worship Old and New
Chapter 23: A Challenge to Evangelical Worship Renewalists
Summary: (2 or 3 paragraphs)
In this closing chapter, Webber wants to reader to understand the crisis that
evangelicals face in today’s modern worship and theology. “Many evangelicals
are looking at style only and need to recover the content and structure of worship”
(261). He urges that the reader remain balanced in all three regards to worship,
making sure that we have the appropriate historical and theological wisdom to
make us understand the importance of worship as a whole.
Content is, as previously stated, the most important of the three. “The
content of worship is not negotiable. It cannot be changed, altered or added to”
(262). The story of God remains the same throughout the ages, and we must not
tamper with the content and keep it biblically and theologically sound for our
congregants. In regard to structure, Webber states that our worship should not be
presentational but narrative in nature. Presentational worship creates a performer
and an audience, but narrative worship invites the congregant into the story and
urges them to take part. Style is much more flexible and fluid compared to the
other two, but it is important that is reflect the church’s personality and character.
Analysis: (1 or 2 paragraphs)
“The challenge for evangelicals is to recover the content of worship,
restore the ancient structure of worship and integrate the evangelical style of
worship” (264). Although accepting this challenge may be difficult, it is
impossible to accomplish with the Lord’s help. That is why worship should be a
good blend of the “old and new,” making sure to tell the old story of the Gospel
but staying relevant with today’s culture. It is a difficult task, but it is what we
have been asked to do to enhance the kingdom of God through the avenue of
worship.
What I Have Learned: (one sentence)
We must make sure that we stay balanced in our pursuit of biblical, theologically-
sound worship by balancing content, structure and style and blending the old and
new.
