A Baptist Theology Of Worship

Although Baptists seek to develop a worship rooted in Scripture, they are more inclined to rely on general principles for guiding worship rather than on literalist models of worship based on Scripture texts alone. All Baptist theology begins with a consideration of Scripture; this is no less true for a theology of worship. In developing their theology and practice of worship, Baptists have considered numerous Scripture passages related to worship, including Moses' encounter with God in Sinai (Exod. 3334); Isaiah's call (Isa. 6); Jesus in the synagogue in Nazareth (Luke 4:16-30); Jesus' words to the Samaritan woman (John 4:19-24); the various accounts of the Last Supper (especially 1 Cor. 11:23-26); numerous references to worship in the early church; and even heavenly worship (Rev. 45). Consideration of Scripture has also led Baptists to recognize that true worship involves service in all of life. Whether individual or corporate, correct liturgical practice of any kind cannot substi…