I grew up in a church with heavily scripted services. Each week, we received a pamphlet outlining the service word-for-word, including bolded or colored text prompting congregational responses like “Oh Lord, hear our prayer” or “Amen.” We often recited “The Lord’s Prayer” verbatim: “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name…”

As a young man, I was drawn to a different kind of worship. This new format of services included hymns, occasional choir performances, or special music, but the focus was on opening and studying the Bible. Many congregants brought Bibles, notebooks, and pens, eagerly jotting down notes and scripture references for later study. This reminded me of the Bereans in Acts 17:10-11:

“Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so.” 

Would you like to attend a church that encourages you to dive into the Bible, ask questions, and seek answers from Scripture? Imagine a pastor preaching eloquently while the congregation searches the Scriptures to verify the message. Explore our introductory pamphlet, This Is the United Church of God, and visit the United Church of God website to find a congregation near you. We’d love for you to join us—bring your Bible!

By Lynn Leiby