But true Christian worship is more like being the athlete in the sporting event, the musician who gives the concert, the tour guide at the art museum, or the lifeguard at the beach. The same is also true of education - the mind of the good student is always at least as active as the mind of the teacher. Christian worship is not passive. It always involves the active participation of the worshipper throughout the service - a concept we seem to have largely lost. Quiet interludes are times for quiet self-preparation, prayer, and meditation.
Hymns are opportunities for everyone to proclaim our faith in song.
Corporate prayer is when all members of the congregation lift praise, confession, thanksgiving, and needs before the Lord, even when the pastor voices this on behalf of the group. The offering is a time for all to give of themselves to honor God. The reading and preaching of God's Word is where we direct our attention to serving Him better. Fellowship is where we encourage others to walk with God. And all of this giving is directed toward honoring the living God we worship.