Since God has a specific plan for each service we spend together, our pastor is committed to finding that plan and leading the congregation into it. Ideally each person can leave church knowing that they have met with the Most High God and heard personally from Him. Of course, this can take a little time. Rushing in and out of the throne room is no way to approach God. So here's a general order for most services*:

1. Praise. It's loud. It's demonstrative. It's an offering we bring to God (Hebrews 13:15). According to Psalm 150, we use singers and instruments - in our case, a full band and contemporary music. We clap our hands and even shout (Psalm 47:1). Don't be surprised if someone dances, marches, leaps or waves their arms. All of these are scriptural ways to praise the Lord. Focus on God, and you'll find yourself singing along.
2. Worship. When our praise is high enough, it's a great platform from which to plunge deep in worship. We worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24) focusing all attention completely on God. No wild movements here- just peace and tenderness as we think of everything God is.
3. Altar Ministry. The velvety feeling of worship sets a great atmosphere in which to hear back from the Lord, personally and corporately. God may give some people a message for the church: a prophecy, message in tongues or interpretation of the tongues (1 Corinthians 12:10). Those people - at most only 2 or 3 according to 1 Corinthians 14:29-- stand up and wait to be recognized by the pastor. If recognized, they are given a microphone (1 Corinthians 14:40). Their message may be received by the pastor and congregation, or the pastor may gently correct the message. This process is often called "flowing in the gifts of the Spirit" and it's an important part of the New Testament church. Pastor John or Gladys may also receive a direction from the Lord and act accordingly. Many times, they'll call specific people to the altar for special ministry or prayer. After this time, they often open the altar for anyone wanting prayer. During prayer, many people feel the presence of God in a tangible way, and they may respond by falling to the ground. If so, they're in good company; the apostles John and Paul responded in this way to the anointing (Revelation 1:17, Acts 22:7) as did others in the Bible. Whatever the response of their bodies to God's presence, everyone receives from God better when their minds are clear and free from distractions.
4. Offering. The pastor often gives a brief, Biblical exhortation about giving and provides everyone a chance to bring their tithes and offerings.
5. Message from the Bible. Yes the Bible. People need substance, the "whole counsel of the Word of God" where the Word is explained in context and with several supporting scriptures for main points. God wouldn't have written it all if He didn't think it related to our lives (2 Timothy 3:16). Books on psychology, excerpts from the Reader's Digest, and email forwards may pass for "relevant", but alone they're poor substitutes for real spiritual meat. If you're hungry, you'll leave full. Enjoy!

*God knows He's free at any time to break in and change our plan, and sometimes He does. We've had spontaneous revivals, prayer meetings, and even fellowships. Now you know why we don't print a bulletin.