PUTTING AN END TO WORSHIP WARS - Elmer Towns

visitors to complete a registration card. Ushers come to the front and begin passing out cards to
each pew as they move toward the back of the church.
As visitors complete the cards, a quartet moves to the platform and begins singing a
gospel song which is obviously a favorite of those gathered. The fast tempo of their music slows
slightly as they sing a second song as part of the musical package. When they are finished, the
choir rises and sings a medley of two hymns.
Because it is an outreach day, the decision was made to minimize church announcements.
This morning, the pastor simply encourages people to read their church bulletin and asks visitors
to place their registration cards in the offering plate as it is passed. Once again the ushers make
their way to the front of the auditorium. Most stop at the first pew, but one makes his way
directly to the pulpit. He leads the church in prayer before the offering is received. As the
offering plate is passed, the pianist and organist play the hymn, How Great Thou Art.
"That sounded so beautiful I think we ought to sing a verse or two of that hymn," the song
leader announces as he returns to the pulpit. He indicates the hymn number in the hymn book
and asks the congregation to rise as they sing the first and last verse of the hymn. The song
leader shares how much he appreciates the ministry of the visiting quartet and is looking forward
to their concert later in the day. He asks them to come once again just before the pastor comes to
share the morning message.
The lead singer in the quartet tells how much they enjoy being at the church today and
how encouraging it is to see a church so full. He explains the song they are about to sing was
written by a member of their group, is featured on their new compact disc and describes the
difference Jesus make in their life. The slower tempo song is sung with pathos and has a moving
effect on the congregation.
As the pastor begins his message, he talks about the importance of relationships. He
shares briefly how friends have had a positive influence on his life and how much he appreciates
his friends. "But as important as friends are," he explains, "There is one relationship which all of
us need to develop." Making periodic reference to Abraham, he talks about the prospects of
being a friend of God. As the message develops, various other verses are read or quoted to
explain the gospel and encourage those gathered to become "a friend of God."
As the sermon comes to a conclusion, the pastor asks the congregation to pray. Before
praying, he says certain words church members have heard often. "With heads bowed and eyes
closed, and no one disturbing the service in any way, let me ask you a question. If you were to
die tonight, do you know for certain you would go to heaven? If you can answer that question
"yes" today, will you simply raise your hand and place it back down again." Across the
auditorium, many faithful raise their hands.
"Thank you," the pastor continues. "Let me talk to those of you who could not raise your
hand just then. Would you like to become a friend of God? You can do that today be simply
turning from your sin and trusting Christ as your Saviour. If you're not sure you have that