Hebron is a biblically-based, Christ-centered community of disciples, a Reformed, (classically) evangelical church in the Presbyterian tradition, worshipping, growing, and serving Christ in the East Hills of Pittsburgh.
We are using the above phrase to capture various elements that are characteristic (or should be) about Hebron Church. However, more than describing what Hebron is (“worshipping, growing, and serving”), this phrase describes what Hebron is about.
We believe that we must be a place where disciples of Christ are formed. Deep discipleship creates a passion for the Glory of God. Disciples are made when redeemed sinners are exposed to the work of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. So, if we are to praise His glory as a church, we should pursue various opportunities for the Spirit to use the Scripture to shape our lives. In the past, we have captured this vision with the phrase: “Worship Plus Two.”
Worship Plus Two is simply a recognition that we encounter the transforming work of the Spirit and Scripture when we are faithfully engaged in biblical, God-centered worship—a worship which honors and pleases the Lord. Through our adoration of Him, our very lives are changed and discipleship occurs. The “Plus Two” in our model capitalizes on the fact that discipleship involves (1) our growing and maturing in a biblical understanding of our salvation in Christ and (2) our dedicated service in His Kingdom.
In the first “Plus Two”, we will stress the importance of maturing in our grasp of the biblical and theological truths which God has revealed. This growth happens so powerfully in relational, community-based settings; in other words, in small groups and studies. Our Growth Group model has consistently pursued this, and we will continue to emphasize getting everyone involved in some form of smaller group Bible study where the Spirit uses relationships with one another to communicate Gospel truths.
Finally, the second “Plus Two” is our stress on ministering and serving in God’s Kingdom. Discipleship is something that leads to service, but discipleship also occurs through service. As we minister to others, the Spirit works in our lives to change us as He directs. It is tremendously fulfilling to realize that our efforts to care for others has the further benefit of drawing us closer to our Lord in love. At Hebron, opportunities to serve the ministry here will always be present—from nursery volunteers, through children’s ministry, youth group helpers, Deacons, small group leaders, and the like. Ministry to those at Hebron, however, is only a portion of our calling—we are to share the love of Jesus to our neighbors, near and far. Opportunities exist, and will be stressed, to be engaged in our community, serving those in need, and, to be uplifting and supporting God’s movement of missions throughout the world. It will be our goal to see that everyone is involved in some form of ministry—both so others may benefit, and so that we all might become more faithful disciples.
In preparation for worship this week, please read Psalm 100, and think of it though the lens of “worship plus two.”
- This psalm functions as an encouragement and/or exhortation to worship God. What are all the reasons the author cites for doing this?
- We are told, in verse 2 to “come into His presence…”. How do we do that? What does coming into God’s presence mean on a practical level?
- In verse 3, what is the connection between “knowing” and “sheep”? What difference does it make to the author that we are made by the Lord?
- What can you tell from verse 4 about the nature of worship? What characteristics or traits are evident there?
- Verse 5 provides the justification for all that has gone on before—for the worship, for the encouragement to grow in our knowledge, and for our service to Him. What is that justification? What reason is given?
By Henry Knapp