The word: Readings and Responses
We now turn to one of two central points of Western Worship. Having united in praise, confession, and prayer, the congregation now turns its attention to God’s revelation through Scripture. The Service of the Word serves as the spiritual centerpiece of the liturgy, presenting the congregation with the living Word of God through readings from the Bible and the pastor’s sermon.
After the Collect of the Day, the congregation hears a reading from the Old Testament, the first of the scripture passages for the day. This reading, often drawn from the Law, the Prophets, or the Wisdom literature, sets a foundational tone for worship. It reminds us that our faith is deeply rooted in the covenant God established with Israel. We hear these readings through our perspective of the New Testament, seeing and hearing the prophecies fulfilled in the life of Jesus. By hearing these readings on a regular basis, we connect ourselves to the stories of the past through the understandings of today’s world.
Following the Old Testament reading, the congregation responds to the Old Testament by singing or reciting a Psalm. In Lutheran worship, the psalms are a rich form of spiritual expression, offering words that echo the full range of human experience. Whether it is joy, lament, hope, or repentance, the psalms allow worshipers to connect personally with the Word of God. They also serve as a bridge between the readings, inviting a contemplative response to what has just been heard. In reciting the psalms, the congregation participates in an ancient tradition, joining their voices with generations of believers who have used these sacred songs to praise and petition God.
Next comes the Epistle or Second Reading, usually drawn from the letters of the New Testament. The Epistles offer teaching and encouragement for the early Church, but their wisdom continues to guide modern Christians as well. These readings often focus on the implications of Christ’s work and the nature of the Christian life. Whether it’s Paul's theological reflections, exhortations on holy living, or guidance on the unity of the Church, the Epistle reading helps the congregation apply the Gospel to their daily lives. This reading serves to enrich the faith of the Church by providing instruction on living in grace and truth.
The importance of the Word in worship cannot be overstated; it is through the Word that God speaks to His people, revealing His will, His grace, and His salvation. The centrality of Scripture in the Service of the Word anchors the entire liturgy, reminding us that in every moment of worship, God’s Word is both the source and the sustaining force of faith. Through the faithful reading and hearing of Scripture, we are transformed, comforted, and equipped to live out our calling as disciples of Christ.
