Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1993

REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 173hearers, who should regard the reading of the Scriptures as God's meto them. It may be helpful to read in unison or responsively.THE SERMON18. The sermon is based upon a passage or passages of Scripture,unfolding the tmth taught and applying it to the hearts and consciences ofthe hearers, including the children. Its purpose is to convict and convertsinners, to lead them to Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, to buUd themup in the most holy faith, and to fill them with zeal for the Kingdom of Godon earth, that they may glorify God and enjoy Him forever. The ministeris ordained to bear witness for the whole tmth as it is in Jesus Christ andagainst all enor, wrong and injustice, without respect of persons.19. The minister is to prepare for preaching by much study of the Wordof God and prayer. He should read widely and keep abreast of the socialand doctrinal issues and the scholarship of the times. His message shouldbe adapted both in content and delivery to his audience. He should seek theaid of the Holy Spirit that he may declare the whole counsel of God.20. The worshipers in the fact and manner of their attention have a partin preaching. They should attend upon it "with diligence, preparation, andprayer, receive it with faith and love, lay it up in their hearts, and practiceit in their lives" (Shorter Catechism, A. 90). A sermon outline, eitherprinted or emphasized as part of the sermon during its delivery, may helpthe congregation follow and remember the sermon. Individuals who wishto interject "Amen" or other spontaneous signs of approval during thesermon should have this freedom if it does not become dismptive.21. The pastor or someone authorized by the session may at some pointin the service give a message especially suited to children.22. The sacraments are a part of the public worship. See Chapter 3.THE BENEDICTION23. The public worship should be concluded with a benediction,pronounced upon the people by an ordained elder. The common form is:"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and thecommunion of the Holy Spirit be with you aU. Amen" (2 Cor. 13:14).Scripture supplies several suitable benedictions (for example, Heb. 13:20-21, 1 Cor. 1:3; Eph. 6:23-24; 2 Thes. 3:16).24. The people should wait quietly and reverently to receive thebenediction. The bestowal of the blessing of God the Father, Son and HolySpirit upon the people is a high and holy duty and privilege of an ordainedelder. The benediction is a pronouncement, not a closing prayer. It shouldnot become a mere formality for dismissing the congregation. Worshipersmay either look at the one pronouncing the benediction or bow their headsin reverent submission to God.