United in Worship: Embracing Change for the Sake of Unity
This message was shared in my church's newsletter under the Elder's Report, and I am posting it on my blog because I believe it carries an important message that others can benefit from. It serves as a devotion focused on an issue within our church.
I've spent considerable time reflecting on our church's consideration of moving to one service, a decision that has created division among our congregation. Of course, other issues are occurring in the church, but this is our current obstacle. Ultimately, it shouldn't matter whether you prefer traditional or contemporary services. While I could elaborate on the broader importance of the church in another post, this message explicitly addresses the divide between the two styles of worship.
I appreciate both types of worship. Our pastor believes that transitioning to one service will help unite everyone, a sentiment I wholeheartedly support. This new service will incorporate elements from both styles. However, I have noticed that some members express a strong dislike for traditional services.
Here is my message to the church:
"so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another." Romans 12:5 ESV
Our sinful nature often reveals itself in unexpected ways. It may not seem apparent, but our pickiness regarding aspects like music, liturgy, and church practices stems from our true nature. This tendency can lead to unnecessary divisions among ourselves. We often forget the true meaning behind our church attendance and the purpose of the divine service. As a church, part of our mission is to unite and glorify God. 1 Corinthians 1:10 reminds us, "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment."
Our tendency to resist change and avoid self-sacrifice reflects our sinful nature. We often resist change because it challenges our comfort zones and emotions. Embracing self-sacrifice can be tricky since it goes against our natural inclination for self-preservation and personal gratification. However, true faith calls us to step out in trust and embrace self-sacrifice for the sake of God's mission. Romans 12:2 tells us, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
The church's mission is to spread God's Word and love. To achieve this, we must prioritize unity over personal preferences. While working towards unity, preserving our faith and guiding others towards the truth of the Gospel is essential. Ephesians 4:3-6 urges us, "eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all."
Satan often wants us to think in terms of "me," which can lead us into sin. It's easy to get caught up in this individualistic mindset; when we do, we risk losing sight of our collective mission. Self-sacrifice is integral to overcoming this tendency; it requires us to shift our focus from what we want as individuals to what we can achieve together. By prioritizing "we" over "me," we align ourselves more closely with God's mission. As stated in Philippians 2:2, "Complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind."
As our church considers transitioning from two services—one contemporary and the other traditional—to a single hymnal service that combines both styles, let us view this change as an opportunity for unity. We should set aside our personal preferences and focus on worshiping God together. Let us adjust our lives to praise God in unity with our fellow Christians, emphasizing the essence of faith and community. Supporting this transition is a step toward strengthening our collective mission.