DAVUILEVU THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE

TERM PAPER

Worship and Liturgy

Jone Saraqia

MN 146

Lecturer: Rev. T. Baleinakorodawa

Date of Submission: 09/09/2023

1.0 Introduction

This essay embarks on a comprehensive exploration of worship, encompassing its

historical evolution, diverse cultural expressions, and theological significance. The journey

takes us through the prehistoric roots of animistic worship to the monotheistic faiths of today.

It also delves into the unique theology of worship within Christianity, with a particular focus

on John Wesley's contributions to Methodist liturgy.

The history of worship spans continents and millennia, revealing humanity's profound

desire to connect with the divine. From the primal reverence for natural elements to the

intricate rituals of ancient polytheistic civilizations, and from the monotheistic fervor of

Judaism and Islam to the contemplative practices of Eastern religions, worship has adapted to

reflect changes in culture, technology, and societal values.

Within the Christian context, worship serves as a conduit for glorifying the divine,

fostering spiritual communion, and expressing gratitude to God. John Wesley's theology of

worship, as outlined in this essay, highlights the importance of heartfelt worship, structured

liturgy, hymnody, preaching, sacraments, and inclusivity in the Methodist tradition.

Furthermore, the essay explores the empowering liturgy of the Class Meeting, a key

component of John Wesley's Methodist movement. This small group gathering provided a

platform for personal transformation, mutual support, and spiritual growth through a carefully

designed liturgical structure.

In conclusion, this essay offers a comprehensive journey through the intricate tapestry

of worship, from its linguistic origins to its theological depths and practical applications in

various religious and spiritual contexts. It emphasizes the enduring human quest to connect

with the sacred and underscores the vital role that worship plays in shaping individual faith

and communal bonds.

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2.0 The Etymology of “Worship”

The concept of worship is a captivating journey that spans across cultures,

civilizations, and religions, revealing a complex and multifaceted history. Rooted in the act of

demonstrating reverence, adoration, or respect towards a higher power or deity, worship has

taken diverse forms throughout the course of human history (Miller 1956, 235-236). As we

delve into the rich tapestry of worship's evolution, it is essential to begin with an exploration

of its linguistic origins and the etymology of the word itself.

The term "worship" holds a lineage that connects us to the linguistic heritage of Old

English, unfolding the metamorphosis of its meaning and connotations. The term finds its

roots in the Old English word "weorthscipe," a compound that melds "weorth," signifying

"worth" or "value," and "scipe," carrying the sense of "ship" or "quality." In its original

context, "weorthscipe" encapsulated the idea of "worthiness" or the possession of value (Ayto

2011, 561). This concept was manifested in the act of showing honor, respect, or reverence

towards entities deemed valuable or deserving of veneration.

Over the passage of centuries, the fluidity of language brought about shifts and

simplifications, nurturing the evolution of "weorthscipe" into the Middle English term

"worship." While the term underwent changes, the core essence remained steadfast.

"Worship" in its Middle English incarnation continued to signify the act of revering or

displaying devotion towards a higher power, deity, or an esteemed entity. This transformation,

interwoven with linguistic nuances, reflected the enduring human inclination to connect with

the divine and the sacred.

The term "worship" extends beyond religious contexts, encompassing a broader

canvas of human emotions and interactions. Beyond its religious significance, "worship" has

been harnessed as a means to convey deep admiration, respect, or reverence for anything held

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in high regard. This expansion of its semantic boundaries exemplifies the malleability of

language in encapsulating the multifaceted nature of human sentiments.

In summary, the journey of "worship" navigates through the intricacies of history,

culture, and language. Emerging from the Old English "weorthscipe," which embodied

worthiness and value, the term underwent a linguistic evolution, ultimately finding its

contemporary expression in "worship." This expression encompasses both religious devotion

and a broader reverence for the revered. As we explore the history of worship, the linguistic

origins serve as a foundation upon which we unravel the intricacies of how humans have

expressed their reverence and adoration across time and space.

3.0 The History of Worship

The history of worship is a complex and multifaceted journey that spans across

cultures, civilizations, and religions. Worship, often defined as the act of showing reverence,

adoration, or respect to a higher power or deity, has taken various forms throughout human

history. Here's a brief overview.

3.1 Prehistoric and Animistic Worship

In the earliest stages of human development, prehistoric cultures practiced animistic

worship, where natural elements, animals, and spirits were revered (Eliade 1978, 29-56). This

form of worship was deeply tied to survival and the understanding of the natural world.

3.2 Ancient Polytheistic Religions

As civilizations developed, many cultures embraced polytheistic belief systems, where

multiple gods and goddesses were worshiped. Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome,

and other societies had intricate pantheons with various deities overseeing different aspects of

life (Eliade 1978, 56-85). Rituals, sacrifices, and temples played crucial roles in these

religious practices.

3.3 Monotheistic Religions

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 Around 2000 BCE, the emergence of monotheistic religions like Judaism marked a

significant shift in worship. Worship focused on a single, all-powerful deity (Eliade 1978,

162-186). Temples and synagogues became central places for communal worship, prayer, and

rituals.

3.4 Christianity

The advent of Christianity, with its teachings centered on the life and teachings of

Jesus Christ, introduced new forms of worship. Early Christian worship gatherings were

informal and often held in homes (Eliade 1982, 330-361). Over time, as Christianity spread,

formal church structures emerged, incorporating liturgy, hymns, and sacraments.

3.5 Islam

In the 7th century, Islam emerged, introducing a monotheistic faith centered around

the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad and the worship of Allah. Muslims gather for

prayers in mosques, facing Mecca, multiple times a day, and participate in rituals such as

fasting during Ramadan and making the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) (Eliade 1985, 113-151).

3.6 Eastern Religions

In Eastern religions like Hinduism and Buddhism, worship is diverse and can range

from personal meditation to elaborate temple ceremonies. Hinduism encompasses a wide

array of practices, rituals, and deities, while Buddhism emphasizes meditation and

enlightenment (Eliade 1985, 181-220).

3.7 Modern Worship Practices

With globalization and technological advancements, worship practices have evolved.

Many religions now utilize digital platforms for virtual gatherings, live-streaming services,

and online communities to connect followers across the globe (Wright 2009, 183-185).

3.8 Secular and Non-religious Practices

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 As societies become more diverse and secular, non-religious forms of worship have

also emerged. People may engage in practices focused on personal growth, self-care,

mindfulness, or even nature reverence without adhering to a traditional religious framework.

Throughout history, worship has adapted to reflect changes in culture, technology, and

societal values. It remains a fundamental aspect of human expression, serving as a means of

connecting to the sacred, seeking guidance, and finding purpose.

4.0 The Theology

Christianity, one of the world's largest religions, places an immense emphasis on

worship as a fundamental aspect of its theology. Worship, in the Christian context, transcends

mere rituals; it is a profound expression of faith, devotion, and communion with God. In this

section, I will explore the Christian theology of worship, examining its purpose, forms, and

significance within the faith.

Christian worship serves a multifaceted purpose deeply rooted in the core beliefs of

the faith. Firstly, the glorification of the divine. At its core, Christian worship finds its

primary objective in the exaltation of God. It operates as a conduit for the acknowledgment of

God's omnipotence, sanctity, and magnificence, with a profound emphasis on the veneration

of the divine.

Secondly, the spiritual communion. Worship, in its manifold manifestations, emerges

as a vehicle for the establishment of a spiritual rapport and union with the Divine. Through

avenues of prayer, psalmody, and introspection, adherents of the Christian faith aspire to

forge a proximate connection with the Divine, thereby facilitating an encounter with the

divine presence.

Finally, it is an expression of gratitude. Worship functions as a quintessential platform

for the articulation of gratitude towards God, extolling Him for His blessings, salvific acts,

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and providential care. It serves as a conduit through which Christians duly recognize God's

benevolence and unwavering fidelity."

4.1 John Wesley’s Theology on Worship

John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, had a distinctive theology of

worship that played a significant role in shaping the practices of Methodism. His theology of

worship emphasized both the importance of heart-felt, experiential worship and the need for

order and discipline in the worship service (Kenneth 2003, 105-126). Here are key aspects of

John Wesley's theology of worship:

Firstly, the Primacy of the Heart. Wesley believed that true worship must come from

the heart. It was not enough to go through the motions of religious rituals; worship had to be a

genuine expression of one's love and devotion to God. He emphasized the need for a personal

and heartfelt encounter with God in worship.

Secondly, the Means of Grace. Wesley saw the public worship service as one of the

"means of grace," along with prayer, Scripture reading, and the Lord's Supper. These means

were channels through which God's grace flowed to transform individuals and sanctify them.

In worship, Wesleyans sought to experience God's grace and grow in holiness.

Thirdly, the Simplicity and Order. While Wesley valued the spontaneity of personal

prayer and testimony, he also emphasized the importance of order in public worship. He

believed that worship should be conducted decently and in order, with a structured liturgy that

included hymn singing, Scripture reading, preaching, and prayer. The liturgy was intended to

guide worshipers through a meaningful encounter with God.

Fourthly, the Hymnody. Wesley was a strong advocate of hymn singing in worship. He

and his brother Charles Wesley wrote many hymns that expressed theological truths and

served as a means of teaching and inspiring worshipers. Hymn singing was a central element

of Methodist worship and played a role in conveying Wesleyan theology.

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 Fifthly, the Preaching. Wesley placed a high value on preaching in the worship

service. He saw it as a means of proclaiming the gospel, convicting sinners, and nurturing the

faith of believers. Effective preaching was essential for bringing about spiritual

transformation.

Sixthly, the Sacraments. Wesley retained the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's

Supper in Methodist worship. He believed that these were powerful means of grace through

which God worked in the lives of believers. He did not see the sacraments as mere symbols

but as conveying God's real presence and grace.

Lastly, the Inclusivity. Wesley's theology of worship emphasized that worship should

be open to all, regardless of social status or education. He believed in the universality of God's

love and the accessibility of God's grace to all people.

In summary, John Wesley's theology of worship in Methodism was characterized by a

balance between heartfelt, experiential worship and structured, ordered liturgy. He valued the

means of grace, including hymnody, preaching, and the sacraments, as channels for

encountering God's transformative grace. Wesley's theology of worship has had a lasting

influence on Methodism and continues to shape the worship practices of Methodist churches

today.

5.0 Empowering Liturgy and Worship in a Class Meeting

In this section, I will design an empowering liturgy that focuses on the fellowship of a

class meeting (Matasiga) designed by John Wesley. Before proceeding further, I would like

to introduce the concept of how Brian Craig Drurey interprets God’s love in action - Grace

(2017, 28–30). To understand God’s grace, we must first examine God’s economy.

The word "economy" originates from the Greek term "oikonomia," which combines

"oikos," meaning household, with "nomos," meaning law or management (Greek Lexicon). In

ancient times, this word hinted at the idea of managing a household, encompassing activities

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such as production, distribution, and consumption of essential goods for life. If we consider

the notion that God has always been involved in creating and nurturing homes, we can see

that God operates an economy for managing homes. God's concern is not only to provide life

but also to ensure a good quality of life.

Therefore, the baseline of the activation of God’s economy in the Methodist Church is

known as the class meeting. As aforementioned above, I will design an empowering liturgy

that focuses on the fellowship of a Matasiga.

5.1 Matasiga Liturgy

John Wesley designed the Class Meeting as a key component of the Methodist

movement, and its liturgy was instrumental in fostering spiritual growth, accountability, and

community among its members. The Class Meeting was a small group gathering where

Methodists could share their spiritual experiences, provide mutual support, and encourage one

another in their faith journey. Here's how John Wesley designed an empowering liturgy for

the Class Meeting:

5.1.1 Opening with a Hymn

Wesley's Class Meetings typically began with the singing of a hymn. Hymns were not only a

form of worship but also a means of teaching and reinforcing theological concepts. The hymn

often set the tone for the meeting and created a sense of unity among the participants.

5.1.2 Reading and Reflecting on Scripture

Scripture played a central role in the Class Meeting. Wesley encouraged participants to read

and reflect on specific passages of the Bible. This practice helped ground the discussions in

the Word of God and provided a foundation for spiritual reflection.

5.1.3 Accountability Questions

One of the distinctive features of the Class Meeting was the use of accountability questions.

Wesley crafted a set of questions that participants were expected to answer honestly. These

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questions typically covered topics such as one's relationship with God, the state of their soul,

their efforts to live a holy life, and their acts of mercy and charity. By answering these

questions openly, participants could assess their spiritual progress and receive encouragement

or exhortation from fellow members.

5.1.4 Sharing Spiritual Experiences

A significant portion of the Class Meeting was devoted to sharing personal experiences of

God's grace and transformation. Participants were encouraged to share their testimonies,

recounting moments of spiritual awakening, conviction of sin, or encounters with God's love.

These testimonies were meant to inspire and edify the group.

5.1.5 Prayer and Intercession

Prayer was an essential element of the Class Meeting. Participants would engage in prayer,

both individually and collectively, offering petitions, thanksgiving, and intercession for one

another. Prayer created a sense of dependence on God and unity within the group.

5.1.6 Closing with a Hymn and Benediction

Similar to the opening, the Class Meeting often concluded with the singing of a hymn.

Wesley considered hymns to be powerful vehicles for expressing faith and sealing the

spiritual lessons of the meeting. A benediction or blessing was also offered as a way to send

participants forth with God's grace and guidance.

5.1.7 Regular Meeting Schedule

The Class Meeting was not a one-time event but a regularly scheduled gathering, often held

weekly. This consistent rhythm allowed for ongoing spiritual growth, accountability, and a

deepening sense of community among its members.

Overall, John Wesley's design for the Class Meeting liturgy aimed to create an

environment where participants could experience personal transformation, mutual support,

and a deepening of their faith. It encouraged accountability, reflection on Scripture, and the

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sharing of spiritual experiences within a small, trusted community. This innovative approach

to Christian fellowship was a key factor in the rapid growth and impact of the Methodist

movement during Wesley's time.

6.0 Conclusion

In conclusion, this statement emphasizes the significance of upholding the class

meeting as the foundational element of the church's worship and spiritual community. It traces

the etymology of the word "worship" to demonstrate its evolution and broader relevance

beyond religious contexts. The statement then delves into the historical journey of worship,

from prehistoric animistic practices to the development of monotheistic religions and modern

worship practices, highlighting its adaptability over time.

The Christian theology of worship, particularly within the Methodist tradition, is

explored, emphasizing its role in glorifying the divine, fostering spiritual communion, and

expressing gratitude. John Wesley's unique theology of worship, which combines heartfelt

devotion with structured liturgy, is also discussed.

The statement concludes by introducing the Matasiga liturgy, a design for empowering

class meetings in the Methodist Church. This liturgy incorporates elements such as hymn

singing, scripture reading, accountability questions, sharing of spiritual experiences, prayer,

and regular meetings, all aimed at facilitating spiritual growth, mutual support, and a sense of

community. Overall, it underscores the importance of the class meeting as a foundational and

transformative aspect of Christian worship and fellowship within the Methodist tradition.

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http://www.blueletterbible.org/lang/lexicon/lexicon.cfm?Strongs=G3622&t=KJV

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Eliade, Mircea. 1982. A History of Religious Ideas: From Gautama Buddha to the Triumph of

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