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Quite often the Sunday evening ‘service’ never occurred in the Church building. Instead, God’s people went out
on Sunday afternoons and evenings to hospitals, orphanages, & prisons to minister to the lost and hurting. As
such, they were offering “service” to God (from where we get the word ‘church service’ today). Thus, ‘church
services’ historically was something that was missional, active, and outreach oriented.
The Sunday evening service, sadly, began to displace the much more ancient (and biblical) practice of meeting
together in homes for worship, prayer, and Bible study. Many churches today are trying to reclaim the biblical
practice of “small groups”, which allow for deeper discussions on Scripture and more intentional discipleship.
However, the Sunday evening service still has much to offer—and it doesn’t have to be an ‘either-or’. A
healthy and vibrant congregation, if it is willing to be flexible, can (and should) accommodate both structures.
We seek to create an environment that focuses on (1) teaching, (2) training, (3) equipping, and (4) involving
God’s people in the work of ministry.
A ‘Learning Atmosphere’
• We will try to be creative with our physical environment. Though we will continue to meet in the auditorium
from time to time, we will also utilize the foyer, tables, & classrooms.
2. TRAINING
Practical Skills
• Developing skills in things such as music, evangelism, leadership, parenting, finances, & leading small
groups.
3. EQUIPPING
Focus on the Spiritual Gifts
• Helping members know, understand, and develop their unique Spirit-given gifts.
4. INVOLVING
Real-life ministry
• Occasionally use the Sunday evening service for congregational meetings (which we currently do) and
committee team meetings. Such meetings should not be viewed as competing with Sunday evening, but
should be viewed as an intentional and vital part of our mission for Jesus Christ.
• In the past, IRBC would occasionally shut down the Sunday evening service and encourage people to go out
and engage in some sort of ministry within the community. We believe this was a very wise practice that
should be resurrected. We will explore ways to make this meaningful and to provide direction &
accountability.