A More Profound Alleluia Summary

A More Profound Alleluia was authored by six writers with the same goal: to explain the importance of connecting worship practices to firm doctrine. The book was organized in such a way that each aspect of a typical church service was interconnected with corresponding theological doctrines. Each section, authored by a different individual, wrestled with concepts and practices of church services and the interpretation of the relationship between God and man. It acknowledges that most faithful liturgy is derived from ancient church practices and was rooted in the theology of the Saints. A central theme of the book is the sheer importance of Scripture; every aspect of a traditional church service is rooted in the teachings of the Bible. Hymns are often verses set to music, Sermons are based on Scripture readings, the Sacraments are the physical elements combined with God’s Word, and even the Creeds are statements of the congregational belief in teachings of Scripture.
While it does not necessarily condemn the practices of every contemporary Christian service, it questions the focus of church worship. With electric guitars and large screens, the focus is easily shifted to entertainment rather than Word and Sacrament. A Christocentric view of church, according to A More Profound Alleluia, is not only suggested, but required. This primarily Presbyterian focused book emphasizes the importance of a solid community. Matthew 18:20 proclaims that “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” Likewise, that aspect of community and togetherness is a fundamental principle A More Profound Alleluia was trying express. It understands that Christ is present in the Word and that the most important thing Christians can attain is the saving words of the