The Free Church of Scotland is very different in how they physically use the Bible in public church services. Their worship is very biblical, compared to the Quakers’ worship. They use the King James Version of the Bible, whereas other churches may just use a commonly known Bible such as the Good News Bible. They will only sing rhyming versions of the Psalms from the Old Testament. These were written in 1650 and might not be understood by many young people today.
Mormon Christians have a very different outlook on the Holy Book they rely on. They do not look at the Bible for their guidance in life. They base their faith on a book revealed by an angel to their founder, a 14 year old boy called Joseph Smith in the New York State. The book states that Jesus Christ appeared in America after his ascension, and they use this book in their services.
The Orthodox, Catholic and Anglican Churches will all use it similarly, but differently to the other Churches. They will use the Bible regularly during public worship. A part of the Old Testament will be first read, then a part of the Epistles. Thirdly readings from a gospel will be read and a sermon will be made on that reading, maybe about current world affairs too. Hymns are also sung from it. The Bible will also be used during Holy Communion, but this isn’t just in the Catholic, Orthodox and Anglican Churches, it’ll be in all the Churches that have Holy Communion.
In most Churches the Bible is kept on a lectern at the front of the Church. The lectern will usually have a carving of an eagle or even a dove on the front as a symbol of peace. It is then easily accessible to read during services.
The Bible will be read during rites of passages such as in weddings. The reading will relate to the rite of passage, so maybe the couple might choose a reading about love and marriage. The Bible is also used during festivals, such as at Easter the victory songs are sung and the story of the empty tomb and appearances of Jesus are read out. At Christmas the birth of Jesus is read and carols are sung.
Many Christians will use the Bible as part of their private worship at home. They may personally study it and worship upon God after thinking about what they’ve read. Christians may also meditate upon the words. To some Christians, it may feel as if someone is listening when they read and pray with the Bible, as the words come alive and the person feels a sense of freshness inside.
Some Christians may privately go to Church with a Bible to worship alone. Whilst worshipping they will hope to find inner guidance of God through the Bible’s words which makes them feel closer to God.
