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Why do we Worship on Sunday

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By
Dean Butler

After the resurrection of Jesus, believers began gathering regularly on the first day of the week, which is Sunday. This was a significant shift from the traditional Jewish observance of the Sabbath on Saturday. The early Christians met on Sunday to honor the day of Christ's resurrection and to worship, fellowship, and break bread together.

The word “worship” itself comes from the Old English term weorþscipe, which means “worthiness” or “honor.” It reflects the idea of showing reverence and honor to someone who is considered worthy. In the context of Christian worship, this means giving our highest respect and devotion to God, who is worthy of our praise and adoration.

In Acts 20:7, it says, "On the first day of the week, when we were gathered together to break bread, Paul began talking to them." This verse indicates that the early church gathered on Sundays for fellowship and worship, including the breaking of bread, which likely refers to the Lord's Supper.

Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 16:2, Paul instructs the church in Corinth, "On the first day of every week, each one of you is to put aside and save, as he may prosper." This also points to the early Christians setting aside Sunday as a time for gathering and giving.

The importance of worshiping on Sunday lies in its deep connection to the resurrection of Jesus. Sunday is the day Christ rose from the dead, defeating sin and death, and bringing new life to all who believe. By gathering on the first day of the week, believers are honoring that pivotal moment in history.

It's a reminder that our faith is rooted in the victory of the resurrection. Worshiping on Sunday reflects the new life and hope we have in Christ, setting it apart from the Jewish Sabbath, which commemorated God's rest after creation. For Christians, Sunday represents a new creation and the beginning of eternal life through Jesus.

Moreover, meeting on Sunday emphasizes that our faith is not just a continuation of the old covenant but something new and alive. It's a weekly celebration of the foundation of our salvation—the resurrection—and keeps our focus on Christ’s victory and the promises He fulfilled. By choosing to worship on Sunday, we align with the early Christians' practice of honoring the day Christ triumphed over death and ushered in a new era of hope and salvation.

Fifty years ago, I committed my life to serving the Lord. I hold an associate degree in Christian Education and a bachelor’s degree in Christian Counseling.  I live by 1 Corinthians 9:16, Ephesians 3:7-8, and Colossians 1:28-29. In my retirement, I focus on studying and teaching God’s Word. Besides writing this Blog I maintain 3 Facebook pages dedicated to spreading the Word of God.  Email: hopeinchrist2024@yahoo.com

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