The Continuity of Public Worship.

“In the realm of worship itself, Jesus taught that postures and expression[s] which may be appropriate in private prayer are inappropriate in public because they draw attention to oneself. The setting, the street corner versus the closet, is crucial (Matthew 6:4–6). The Apostle Paul regulates the preaching, praying, singing, and sacramental practices of the church at Corinth in 1 Corinthians 10–14. He gives specific directions for when they ‘come together as a church’ (1 Corinthians 11:18). Special rules that apply when the church gathers that don't necessarily apply in ‘all of life.’ That which may be done in one's house may not be done in the assembly. In connection with the Lord’s Supper, the Apostle Paul asked directly, ‘Do you not have houses in which to eat and drink?’ (1 Corinthians 11:22). The eating which would have been appropriate at home was inappropriate in public. Also, there are questions which might be asked at home which should not be asked in the public assembly (1 Corinthians 14:35). A form of the phrase ‘when you come together’ (vv. 17–18, 20, 33–34) is used five times in 1 Corinthians 11:17–34. He cites the practice of ‘all the churches.’ He insists that the Corinthian church conform to the universal standard of the church. ‘We have no other practice,’ he says, ‘nor have the churches of God’ (1 Corinthians 11:16; cf. 14:23; 1:2; 4:17; 14:23). These rules for public worship ensure substantial continuity between the churches in there public services” (Reformed Worship, Johnson, pp. 11–12).