Prevail: 1 Corinthians Week 8 Worshipping in Spirit and in Truth Focus: A heartfelt letter from Paul to the church in Corinth that was caught in conflicts, questions, problems, divisions, and difficulties. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to deepen their understanding of Christ and live out their new faith, allowing Jesus to shape their whole lives. Study by: Jacqui Thomas Sermons can be viewed on the Hope Valley Church YouTube Channel 1. Sharing Our Journey Praise, Thanks, and Reflection Invite people to share from one or more of the questions below. It can be done as a whole group or in subgroups. Check out the song: Heart of Worship What did you really enjoy about church recently? What are you thankful for? How has God used you in the last few weeks? What are you struggling with at the moment? Care and Prayer In prayer capture the things you have shared above after also inviting people to share any personal needs for prayer or support. 2. Opening God’s Word Setting the Scene In the previous chapters, Paul has talked about all aspects of worship: how to use spiritual gifts in worship, how to respectfully celebrate communion, how we all have different parts to play in the worship service, and so much more. In this verse, Paul bottom-lines the instructions for gatherings of the church. Though he describes a service different from what we're used to, it speaks to the freedom believers have in how to worship. Given that it does seem that the Corinthian worship was somewhat chaotic and perhaps at times, a bit self-serving, Paul gives two important points to consider for worship gatherings in this verse. Read: 1 Corinthians 14:26 Since it’s just one verse, try reading it in a few different translations. (If you are using a Bible App with lots of different versions, find one you have never used before!) As you listened to the different versions of this verse, how would you plan a worship service for the Corinthian church according to Paul’s way of doing it? (You can work in pairs to do this if you want!) What are your favourite ways to worship? (Share why if you feel comfortable doing so.) One of Paul’s intentions is to promote orderliness in worship - do you think this is important and why? The other of his intentions is that ‘the church may be built up’ - what do you think this means in our churches today? 3. Living out the Heart of God We all have parts to play in our worship services, even in a bigger church like ours where we can’t all get up and share a song or a message. Since Paul’s heart in this verse is that everything is to be done so that the church may be built up, how does this verse apply to you? If you are a musician or preacher this is easier to answer, but if you are one that goes to worship, how might God want you to build up the church? Prayer for each other Break into 2s or 3s to pray. Pray for each other for any commitment you have made to live out what you have learned. Praying for your 5 (from your Relational Map - See ‘The Heart of God’ Study - Week 1) Contacts If you would like more information or further help please contact: scott.button@hopevalleychurch.com.au