Perhaps this has already been dealt with in a sufficient way, in which case I apologize for wasting anyone's time, but I was reading through the pop theology thread and towards the bottom Kalled2Preach mentions the usage of other instruments in worship. The response given him concerned how contemporary services seem to be more supported by the baby boomer generation rather than the modern one. I think that is a perfect lead into this question that I have.

What are some historical practices of worship which are not used in the church today?
I was reading through my Theological dictionary and the article in it about worship was talking about how modern services are set up and frankly, it sounded like it was describing some kind of sexual experience or something, saying that the sermon was the climax of the service where the pent up emotion created earlier on is let loose. The article then contrasted this with a more liturgical style which was said to be more self controlled and orderly. Some of what was said rings true, it touches a dissatisfaction I have with some of the things I see in the services I attend, the order of the first was exactly the same as the one we use sunday mornings. Something in me desires that old time religion, and not the camp meeting stuff my folks think of, but authentic Christian worship which has roots and meaning.

I have heard of responsive readings and written prayers and using the Lord's Supper more than once a quarter and having a meal after the Lords Supper. I thought it was so cool when I finally learned the reasons and meanings behind some of the garmets worn by the Catholic and (semi-Catholic?) priest.

Also, being a Baptist, why don't we use the word Bishop or any of those like terms anymore? I mean, Bishop and Elder were terms used in the Bible, why can't we use em today? Is it b/c T.D. Jakes does and the SBC still has something against black people? Personally I'd like to go in and be able to use a term other than Pastor or Brother when speaking about my Preacher. Of course, I'd also like to see Deacons who do something other than act like lost people, but that's a different matter.


-Brother Luke