Church buildings were once looked upon as places of worship. Now, these same structures are viewed as places that “meet the needs” of the whole person. Many religious groups are marketing their church through means of recreation and entertainment. Everything to accommodate the family including “Family Life Centers” (gyms) to playgrounds is on the “drawing card” for the 21st-century church. The mega-churches have really gone all out to capitalize on the craving for modern man: Theaters, bowling alleys, cafes, and large auditoriums to accommodate the “gospel” rock groups to entertain the young people which draws thousands to satisfy the flesh.

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The instrument (piano, organ) which made its entrance into the assembly without Scriptural authorization (Col. 3:17) has now expanded to orchestras. Not only are people entertained by choruses, and solos, now drama and dance have been accepted in many places as acceptable expressions of “worship.”

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Friends, there simply is no Scriptural authorization for recreation and entertainment as a work of the church! The only drawing power that has heaven’s approval is the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ (Mark 16:15-16; Rom. 1:16). Some have attempted to justify the use of dramatic reading, drama, and dance as simply a method of presenting the Gospel. This cannot be the case for the following reasons:

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1. In order for any method to be used it must first and foremost be Scriptural. Dramatic reading, drama, and dance fail the test since there is no authorization for them in the Scriptures (Col. 3:17)! It isn’t unusual after a “performance” that many will burst forth in resounding applause. Actually, these things cheapen worship; making it a spectator event, and takes away the praise and honor due only to the Almighty!

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2. All worship must be directed to God “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24) and not for the purpose of elevating or exalting man! The simplicity of God-approved worship consists of Singing praises unto God (Eph. 5:19, without the use of instruments of music), Prayers (Acts 2:42), Preaching (Acts 2:42), partaking of the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:23-29; Acts 20:7), and Giving of one’s means as God has prospered them (1 Cor. 16:1-2). Remember, friends, additions to God-ordained worship result in “vain worship” that God rejects (Matt. 15:8-9; Gal. 2:21-23)!

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John informs us of the great AWE (reverence) demonstrated in heaven toward Almighty God when he wrote: “...And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshiped him that liveth forever and ever. ... And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders, and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshiped God” (Rev.5:14; 7:11). My friends, the atmosphere of the assembly must reflect Him whose presence we are to honor and praise!

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As we enter the assembly let us remember we are in the presence of God. We are not there for a show or to be entertained, but to worship the great I AM (Exodus 3:14). His holiness, His greatness, His goodness, and His severity, demands we worship Him and Him alone “in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24)!

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Ivie Powell