divine service (Part 3)
What's in a Name
The Divine Service is also known by Mass or Holy Liturgy. Broadly defined, Divine Service refers to everything: the Services of Preparation, Word, and Sacrament. Narrowly defined, it is the Service of the Sacrament. The Service of the Sacrament in 1 Corinthians 11:20, it is called the Lord’s Supper. In 1 Cor 10: 21, it is called the Lord’s Table. It is called the Breaking of Bread in Acts 2:42,46. Eucharist “Giving Thanks” from 1 Cor 11:20-21. Also, Holy Communion, Holy Supper, and the Sacrament of the Altar.
In German, Gottesdienst was also used. Gottesdienst can mean God’s Service to people or people’s service to God. When the LCMS transitioned from German to English, Divine Service was used to translate Gottesdienst. Gottesdienst is a wonderful word. It reflects the true nature of worship: God coming to serve us and us responding in service to Him.
It’s ok to use worship service or worship to refer to what happens on Sunday, but try using Divine Service instead. It can help as a little devotional aid to refocus our minds from all the distractions in our life. It can also provide a great opportunity to witness. When a non-Lutheran hears you say, “I’m going to Divine Service.” They may ask, “What is that?”