Prayer for the Week

O God, whose blessed Son came into the world that he might destroy the works of the devil and make us children of God and heirs of eternal life: Grant that, having this hope, I may purify myself as he is pure; that, when he comes again with power and great glory, I may be made like him in his eternal and glorious kingdom; where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.†

Monday, September 21, 2015

Amen!

This is the fourth post in a series of  posts looking at some biblical expressions of worship. If as Christian worshipers we say we believe the Bible, then our worship services must be biblical. If they are to be biblical, then they must take the elements/acts found in the Bible into account and understand their contribution to this act of obeisance we offer corporately each week.

Expression #4:
The Congregational "Amen"

Biblical References:
1 Chronicles 16:36; Nehemiah 8:6; Psalms 106:48; Deuteronomy 27:14-26

Explanation:
The Hebrew "Amen" has the force of strong affirmation or assent, usually to something spoken by another.  Most simply, a spoken "Amen" is often loosely translated, "so be it."  Moses' directions for worship included, "and all the people shall say AMEN."  After hearing Ezra read the law, all the people raised their hands and shouted, "AMEN."  Paul refers to the people's "AMEN" of thanksgiving.  In Revelation 3:14 it is used in direct relation to the terms true and faithful, referring to Christ as "the Amen, the faithful and true witness," and emphasizes Christ and his message--the embodiment of TRUTH (John 14:6; 17:17). These verses conclusively show the word's scriptural meaning.  

No comments:

Post a Comment