What happens if someone makes a mistake during worship?
Question:
Thank you so much. May God bless you for the amazing work that you do.
I find it hard to switch from one act of worship to another, especially when I believe the one leading has made a mistake.
For example, one Sunday, during the Lord's Supper, the one leading us in the Lord's Supper said in his prayer, "We thank You Heavenly for your sufferings on the cross." He mentions the Heavenly Father, but when adding more information, it appears he is talking about Jesus Christ instead. He said other things, which I don't clearly remember, but the distinction between our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ was hazy in his prayer.
I sometimes tell myself that Jesus is well aware of our physical limitations, so I follow as Joe leads, but I also know that God is Holy. He requires perfect worship from us, so what is the best thing to do in situations such as the example?
This disturbs my focus throughout the service. Please help me find a way of handling this so that I can be more focused during worship.
Thank you so much, and I am truly grateful for your help.
Answer:
If God required perfection in worship, then we would be in trouble since none of us are perfect. Despite our best efforts, mistakes are made at times. Speaking in front of an audience is very difficult for many people. They get nervous, and sometimes mistakes are made in the wording of a prayer.
Thus, if someone makes a mistake, go to him after worship and tell him how much you are encouraged by his efforts in leading prayers. Then, ask if you might make a small suggestion. "It is probably just me, but I'm having difficulty following whether you are talking about the Father or the Son in your prayers. Could you make it a little more distinct?" Before offering criticism, always sincerely let the person know what you appreciate. Then, the criticism comes across as balanced and not as severe. You don't want to discourage a brother from ever participating in worship again.
Also, keep in mind that God is united in all that is done. Sometimes, terms are mixed on purpose. "For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace" (Isaiah 9:6). Isaiah is clearly referring to Jesus, the Son of God. But he calls him "Eternal Father" because he is God (eternal) (I Timothy 1:16-17) and our creator (our Father) (Colossians 1:16).
