Liturgy of Refuge Church
Liturgy is an essential aspect of Christian worship that shapes our understanding of God, the gospel, and our role as believers. At Refuge Church we believe that God sets the terms for how He is worshipped and gospel-centered liturgy plays a pivotal role in the spiritual formation of the church. Through intentional structure and participation in liturgy, we draw near to God and grow in our faith.
Key Points on Liturgy
1. God Sets the Terms for Worship
Liturgy is about God’s terms for worship, not our own. It is through God’s prescribed guidelines that we honor Him in our gatherings. True worship begins when we recognize His holiness and align our hearts with His will.
Scripture References: Exodus 24:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8
2. Worship Is for God, Not Us
The purpose of our gathering is primarily for God’s glory, not for our personal benefit. While we do receive spiritual nourishment, worship is about giving God the honor He deserves, shifting our focus from ourselves to Him.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:42-47
3. Liturgy Shaped by the Gospel Arc
A gospel-centered liturgy follows the gospel arc:
God is holy
We are sinners
Jesus saves us
Jesus sends us
This arc shapes the structure of our corporate worship gatherings, reminding us of God’s redemptive plan and pointing our hearts toward the work of Christ.
Scripture References: Isaiah 6:1-8, Revelation 5:1-14
4. Worship Engages the Whole Church
Liturgy is not just for individuals; it is the work of the people. The gathered body of believers is the most important instrument in worship. When we worship together—through song, prayer, and the reading of Scripture—we live out our collective identity in Christ.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:42-47
5. Spiritual Formation Through Regular Participation
Consistent engagement in gospel-centered liturgy shapes our lives beyond the Sunday gathering. As we participate week after week, we grow in our understanding of God’s holiness, our need for grace, and Christ’s work of salvation.
Scripture References: Revelation 5:1-14
6. Liturgy Leads to Generosity and Growth
Good liturgy, empowered by the Holy Spirit, leads to awe, generosity, and spiritual growth. By focusing on God’s gospel work in worship, we are shaped as disciples. Worship grounded in the gospel transforms us as we grow into the likeness of Christ.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:42-47
Liturgy is about God’s terms for worship, not our own. It is through God’s prescribed guidelines that we honor Him in our gatherings. True worship begins when we recognize His holiness and align our hearts with His will.
Scripture References: Exodus 24:1-11, Isaiah 6:1-8
2. Worship Is for God, Not Us
The purpose of our gathering is primarily for God’s glory, not for our personal benefit. While we do receive spiritual nourishment, worship is about giving God the honor He deserves, shifting our focus from ourselves to Him.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:42-47
3. Liturgy Shaped by the Gospel Arc
A gospel-centered liturgy follows the gospel arc:
God is holy
We are sinners
Jesus saves us
Jesus sends us
This arc shapes the structure of our corporate worship gatherings, reminding us of God’s redemptive plan and pointing our hearts toward the work of Christ.
Scripture References: Isaiah 6:1-8, Revelation 5:1-14
4. Worship Engages the Whole Church
Liturgy is not just for individuals; it is the work of the people. The gathered body of believers is the most important instrument in worship. When we worship together—through song, prayer, and the reading of Scripture—we live out our collective identity in Christ.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:42-47
5. Spiritual Formation Through Regular Participation
Consistent engagement in gospel-centered liturgy shapes our lives beyond the Sunday gathering. As we participate week after week, we grow in our understanding of God’s holiness, our need for grace, and Christ’s work of salvation.
Scripture References: Revelation 5:1-14
6. Liturgy Leads to Generosity and Growth
Good liturgy, empowered by the Holy Spirit, leads to awe, generosity, and spiritual growth. By focusing on God’s gospel work in worship, we are shaped as disciples. Worship grounded in the gospel transforms us as we grow into the likeness of Christ.
Scripture Reference: Acts 2:42-47
Conclusion
Liturgy is more than just a set of rituals; it is a framework for encountering God through the gospel. A gospel-centered liturgy helps us understand:
God’s holiness
Our sinfulness
Christ’s saving work
The part we play in God's Kingdom Mission
By participating in liturgy, we are formed as a church and sent out to live on mission for God. Each gathering brings us closer to Christ, builds up the body of believers, and prepares us for daily life walking with Jesus.
God’s holiness
Our sinfulness
Christ’s saving work
The part we play in God's Kingdom Mission
By participating in liturgy, we are formed as a church and sent out to live on mission for God. Each gathering brings us closer to Christ, builds up the body of believers, and prepares us for daily life walking with Jesus.