Over the past several years, churches have engaged in an ongoing debate between two different styles of worship–“traditional” and “contemporary.” Here, Ronald Byars argues that many of the differences between the two styles are superficial. Authentic worship, being wholly theocentric, can and must be both responsive to contemporary culture and grounded in history and tradition. Thus, rather than merely trying to please their members, congregations must focus on exploring worship that is biblical, honors our communion with the saints, and takes seriously the ways that our culture is reshaping us. He concludes with a description of an authentic, postmodern Protestant worship service.
Ronald P. Byars is Professor Emeritus of Preaching and Worship at Union Theological Seminary and Presbyterian School of Education in Richmond, Virginia. He is the author of several books, including Christian Worship in the Foundations of Christian Faith series, The Future of Protestant Worship, and The Bread of Life.
