If you visit us at Redeemer for the first time, you might notice that the worship service feels different from what you may be used to. There may be chanting, responsive readings, hymns, and vestments. The service may feel more reverent and structured than what many people experience today.
So why do Lutherans worship this way?
Our worship at Redeemer is shaped by what we believe is happening in the worship service itself. The introduction to our hymnal puts it well: “Our Lord is the Lord who serves.”
Jesus Christ gave Himself for us through His suffering, death, and resurrection so that we might have forgiveness and life in Him. And even today, He continues to serve His Church. He speaks to us through His Word, joins us to Himself in Holy Baptism, and feeds us with His body and blood in the Lord’s Supper.
Because of this, Lutheran worship is centered on the gifts Jesus gives: His Word and Sacraments. That is why we call it the “Divine Service”, because God is serving His people.
Christian worship is not primarily about creating an emotional experience or entertaining an audience. It is about Christ serving His people through His Word and Sacraments.
Because our worship is centered on Jesus and His gifts, it shapes the way we worship. We receive His gifts with reverent gratitude. We respond with thanksgiving and praise. We hear the Word of God, and then we speak and sing that Word back to Him, repeating the very promises and praises He has given to His Church.
In many ways, the rhythm of Christian worship is like breathing: God gives His gifts to us, and we respond with prayer, praise, and thanksgiving. Our whole worship life is centered on receiving the gifts of God and responding to Him in faith.
The best way to understand Lutheran worship is to experience it for yourself.
To plan your visit, click here: Plan Your Visit | Redeemer Lutheran Church | Arkansas City, KS
To learn more about what we believe, click here: What We Believe | Article | Redeemer Lutheran Church
To watch services and sermons ahead of time, click here: Sermons | Redeemer Lutheran Church | Arkansas City, KS
Whether you're a lifelong Lutheran or simply exploring the Christian faith, the best way to continue your journey is by visiting.
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