Just and Sinner Podcast Pastor as Teacher of the Liturgy
Nov 23, 2017
Rev. Dr. Curtis Lyons, theologian and liturgics professor, explores liturgical worship history and practice. He traces worship’s Jewish roots, explains why liturgical gestures need theological meaning, and walks through ancient Eucharistic patterns like Hippolytus. He also examines debates over consecratory prayers, Luther’s reforms, and how worship shapes and transforms the people.
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Liturgy Comes From Synagogue And Passover Roots
- The Christian liturgy has two historical parts: Synaxis (synagogue-style readings) and Pesach (the Passover/holy meal), forming word then meal structure.
- Lyons explains ascending psalms leading to hearing God's Word then ascending the mount to receive the sacred meal.
Eucharist Prayer Mirrors Jewish Blessing Structure
- Early Eucharistic prayers preserve a Jewish two-part blessing structure: eulogesas (praise/blessing of bread) and eucharistesas (thanksgiving over the cup).
- Lyons cites Sen and ancient texts showing Jewish meal forms shaped Christian thanksgiving and proclamation prayers.
Remembrance Makes Past Salvation Present
- Anamnesis (remembrance) makes a past salvific event present; Christians 'do this in remembrance' so Christ's deliverance becomes immediate.
- Lyons traces zikharon across Exodus, Passover, and Jesus' words to show liturgy as participatory remembrance.
