PC004-512 - Christian Worship

  • 2,784 Standard Tuition Fee
  • 12
    Credit Points
  • 0.125 EFT 
  • 5
    AQF level
  • Category foundational unit
    A
  • pastoral churchUnit Discipline

Exclusions

Prior to 2020, this unit content was delivered under the unit code PC215.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will

A. Know and understand

Demonstrate Foundational knowledge and understanding of Christian worship including the methods and standards of professional, safe and ethical practice.

B. Be able to

1. Outline the biblical idea of worship

2. In light of the history of worship, Comment on the main principles and issues in contemporary Christian worship

3. Present Organised evidence-based perspectives on Christian worship 

C. Be in a position to

1. Relating perspectives and skills from ‘Christian Worship’ to contemporary Christian living and ministry contexts

Content

Section A: Biblical Perspectives

The theology and practice of worship through a study of the Old and New Testaments. 

This requires an examination of the theology and practice of worship in the Old and New Testaments (with reference to Jewish and early church patterns of worship, e.g., as in the Didache, Justin Martyr’s First Apology and the Apostolic Tradition of Hippolytus).  It will involve reflection on themes such as sacrifice, service, the nature of praise, corporate prayer, adoration, confession and forgiveness, the confession of faith, the relationship of worship, discipleship and ethics, the Lord’s Supper, baptism, preaching and teaching, prayer and offerings and other elements of worship.

Section B: Historical Developments

The major, current forms of worship in Australia through reflection upon present practice and significant elements in the historical processes which have led to the present situation.  The focus will be upon the principles and practice of worship in Protestant denominations and traditions but including reference to the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.  These traditions should be interpreted in the light of their historical development, including the liturgical principles and practice of the Reformation and denominations.  Cultural and other developments and influences which have led to the present forms of worship.  Where possible opportunity should be given for particular study of one of these traditions.

Section C: Contemporary Themes

Reflection upon contemporary issues in the theology, practice and leadership of worship.  This requires an examination of contemporary issues in worship in the light of scriptural principles, historical developments and cultural perspectives.  To be included are: the forms of leadership; the style of liturgy; structure and freedom; doctrine and experience; the relationship of traditions of worship to contemporary culture and sub-cultures; receiving and offering; personal and communal dimensions; symbolism; architecture; music and the use of the creative arts and the influence of feminism, multiculturalism and the media.

Section D: The Practice of Worship

The aim is to equip students with basic skills in the leadership of worship.  This involves a study of the basic principles of the planning, preparation and conduct of worship.  Wherever possible students should be observers of the planning, conduct and evaluation of corporate worship and take an active part in the planning and leadership of at least three services of worship.

Set Readings

This unit's indicative bibliography is currently being revised. Students should contact their home college for further details at the time of taking this unit.


Prescribed:

Bruggemann, W., Worship in Ancient Israel: An Essential Guide (Nashville: Abingdon, 2005).

Dawn, M. J., A Royal Waste of Time (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1999).

Hurtado, L., At the Origins of Christian Worship (Cumbria: Paternoster, 1999).

Wright, N. T., For All God’s Worth (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997).

 

Reference:

Webber, R. E., The Complete Library of Christian Worship (vols 1-7) (Peabody: Hendrickson, 1993-1994).

White, J., Protestant Worship: Traditions in Transition (Lousiville, KY: WJKP, 1989).

 

Recommended:

Carson, D. A. (ed.), Worship by the Book (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2002).

Kimball, D., Emerging Church, Creating Worship Gatherings for New Generations (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2004).

Kreider, E., Communion Shapes Character (Downers Grove, IVP, 1999).

Ray, D., Wonderful Worship in Smaller Churches (Cleveland, OH: Pilgrim, 2000).

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