In 2009, Baker Academic published Bryan Chapell’s widely acclaimed book, Christ-Centered Worship, Letting the Gospel Shape Our Practice. Central to the book is that although the bible doesn’t prescribe an order of worship, the patterns of worship in Scripture and as held by the major historic liturgies display the gospel message in their shape. Following this pattern allows churches to proclaim the gospel message each week no matter what other themes are present. Aligning with this perspective, Scott Aniol recently published an excellent video in which he clearly illustrates how pastors may plan “Gospel-Shaped Worship Service[s]” with variety each week. The video walks the viewer through the computer planning and organizational tools that Aniol uses. It gives you an open window to what Aniol sees on his computer as he plans. Although there are many ways to plan services, how we plan is important because as Aniol says, worship shapes us. Just follow this link to see the video: http://religiousaffections.org/news-reviews/how-to-plan-a-gospel-shaped-worship-service/

Sources:

Chapell, Bryan. Christ-Centered Worship: Letting the Gospel Shape Our Practice. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2009.

Aniol, Scott. “How to Plan a Gospel Shaped Worship Service.” Religious Affections Ministries. Accessed November 30, 2009. Available from http://religiousaffections.org/news-reviews/how-to-plan-a-gospel-shaped-worship-service/; Internet.