Contemporary society is moving toward more participation in management and meetings.  This can be seen in business management styles, the Oprah Show, and even Facebook.  However, the contemporary church seems stuck on sermons — non-participatory, one-person, lectures.

However, early Christian worship was very interactive.  It was based on open sharing and participation by everyone present, rather than on a professional presentation.

This is confirmed in these two quotations from the Reader’s Digest book, After Jesus–The Triumph of Christianity:

“In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul outlined the early Christian service: ‘When you come together, each one of you has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.’ From Paul’s description it is clear that these early gatherings were dynamic and exciting, and encouraged every worshiper to participate.”

“On a Sunday in Corinth a group of slaves and freedmen, paupers and aristocrats fill a home.  A tall, middle-aged man, his weathered face framed by a fringe of black beard, stands and begins speaking in tongues.  Others recite prayers, lead hymns, or give instruction . . . scenes like the above occurred throughout the Roman Empire during the latter part of the first century.”

This biblical style of church is not just a theory.  It not only works, it unleashes the real presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

Come and see for yourself at The Salvation Army Berry Street in Nashville.  Experience participatory church where everyday people show and tell what God has done — Sundays @ 10:45 am., 225 Berry St., Nashville, 37207.