Embracing Freedom and Substance in Worship: The Evangelical Perspective on Liturgy and the Church Calendar
> The use of a liturgical church calendar and traditional liturgy in worship has been a hallmark of several Christian denominations for centuries. However, many evangelical churches take a different approach, often characterized by a lack of a formal liturgical calendar and a more flexible liturgical structure.
This article will explore how evangelicals reconcile this absence, focusing on the essentials of the faith, the freedom of worship, and the substance over the form of worship.
The Essentials of Faith Over Liturgical Tradition
Evangelicals prioritize the core tenets of Christianity—such as the authority of Scripture, the lordship of Jesus Christ, and the necessity of personal faith and conversion—above adherence to liturgical traditions. The evangelical movement has historically been concerned with the heart of worship, emphasizing a personal and direct relationship with God that is not dependent on following a set liturgical calendar or prescribed liturgy.
Freedom in Worship
One of the key scriptures that evangelicals reference regarding worship practices is Colossians 2:16-17, where the Apostle Paul writes, “Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.” This passage is often interpreted to mean that Christians are not bound to observe specific religious days or rituals, as the substance of these observances is fulfilled in Christ.
Evangelicals believe that this freedom extends to worship, allowing for a variety of expressions and styles. This perspective upholds the belief that every day is sacred and that worship should not be confined to specific times and seasons. Consequently, evangelical worship services may not follow a traditional liturgical pattern but are instead guided by the leading of the Holy Spirit and the needs of the congregation.
Substance Over Form
A.W. Tozer, a prominent evangelical author and pastor, encapsulated the evangelical attitude toward worship by stating, “Our focus is not on the form but on the substance of worship.” Evangelicals assert that the heart of worship lies in the sincere expression of adoration and devotion to God, rather than in the external forms and rituals. This conviction drives evangelicals to create worship experiences that are biblically grounded and spiritually vibrant, aiming to engage the worshipper’s heart and mind with the truth of the gospel.
Resource for Further Study
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the principles behind evangelical worship practices, “Worship by the Book” by D.A. Carson offers a thoughtful exploration of worship that is informed by biblical teaching and responsive to the cultural context. This resource can help readers appreciate the theological rationale for various worship styles and the importance of grounding worship practices in Scripture.
Conclusion
Evangelical churches often forgo a liturgical church calendar and traditional liturgy, not out of disregard for church history or tradition, but from a desire to emphasize the freedom of worship and the essentials of the Christian faith. By focusing on the substance of worship—encountering and responding to God through Jesus Christ—evangelicals seek to foster genuine expressions of praise and adoration that are not confined to particular times or ritualistic patterns. This approach to worship is rooted in a conviction that the transformative power of the gospel should be the driving force behind all worship practices, leading believers to experience the presence of God in a dynamic and life-changing way.
