Description
Craig Stephans shows us from scripture that God speaks to us when we are quiet. For this reason many Christians practice times of quiet in their private devotions. Yet silence before the Lord seems to have gone missing in the church – exactly where hearing from God is most needed. Silence during worship can be a tough call for clergy, as it may challenge a congregation at first; yet just a few touches of silence in corporate worship can bring communion with God that is greater than words.
This book includes the commentary, and suggestions for how to deepen church worship with moments of corporate silence before the Lord, by nineteen contributors including bishops, senior pastors, worship leaders and lay people.
Were we merely to turn off the world’s noises and sit awhile, we would be just as likely hear the voices of demons (or our own voice) as to hear the voice of our Lord.
Devotional silence cannot thrive in a vacuum. It must exist in the context of Christian truth. That is why this book contains a rounded exposition of Christian truth, called catechesis, a Greek word meaning to echo the teaching. (In the first centuries new converts were catechized in the faith for one to three years before being allowed to join the Church.)
Silence gives space for people to yield to the majesty of our redeemer King. It never precludes exuberant praise.
The command, “be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) is followed just two verses later by the command, “Shout to God with loud songs of joy!” (Psalm 47:1). Moments of silence can indeed heighten the praises of the people of God.
We pray that this book will edify you, the reader.