QUESTION: What are the acts of worship authorized by the New Testament?
ANSWER: Scriptural worship clearly consists of only five separate and distinct acts: (1) Congregational Singing (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16), (2) Prayer (1 Timothy 2:8; Acts 2:42), (3) Teaching/Preaching (2 Timothy 4:2; Acts 20:7), (4) Communion on Sundays only ( Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 11:23-30; Matthew 26:26- 29), and (5) Giving on Sundays only (1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 9:7). To these five acts of worship we are limited! The New Testament (by which we will be judged-John 12:48) does not allow women to lead in these matters when men are present (1 Corinthians 14:34-35; 1 Timothy 2:11-12)! Neither does it authorize mechanical instruments of music (including drums); hand clapping; singing groups; choirs; shouting and raucous behavior; or any type of entertainment. To engage in any of these is to violate the Word of God (Galatians 1:6-9; Revelation 22:18-19). All worship must be in spirit and truth (John 4:24), as well as decently and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40).