Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1995 - Rparchives.org

156 MINUTES OF THE SYNOD OF THEcongregation may all join in the Lord's Prayer, and may give their assent by acorporate "Amen" at the close of any prayer.77?e Offering15. God requires His people to give a portion of their substance to Him;and this should be done cheerfully, regularly, and as He has prospered them.Every member of the church should participate in this act of worship, andshould adopt some definite system or proportion in giving, based on the titheas a minimum. The receiving of the offering may be preceded or followed bya brief prayer. It may be appropriate that a deacon do this.16. To prepare them for this worship, ministers, elders and the financialofficers should instruct the people concerning the duty of giving and theprogram of the church. They should teach the children that they have arightful part in the life and work of the church and a responsibility for itssupport. The individual's first obligation is to his own congregation, and tothe entire work of the church as carefully planned by the Presbytery andSynod. In addition to this, he may contribute to such other Kingdom work asthe church or his own spiritual interest suggests. The approval of the sessionis required before a special offering for an object not connected with theReformed Presbyterian Church may be announced or received by thecongregation or by any of its organizations. Session may wish to give thecongregation guidelines for their personal giving, beyond the tithe, to otherChristian and charitable work.Reading the Scriptures17. The reading of the Word of God is a necessary part of publicworship, and should have a place in every service. Readings from both theOld and New Testament should be encouraged. The Scripture passagesshould be carefully read so that their meaning may be conveyed to thehearers, who should regard the reading of the Scriptures as God's message tothem. 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 truth 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 build 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 minister isordained to bear witness for the whole truth as it is in Jesus Christ and againstall error, 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 social anddoctrinal issues and the scholarship of the times. His message should be