Why do some churches not use the Christian year or lectionary readings for worship and/or preaching?
That’s a complicated question. The primary reason seems to be the changes of worship style from “traditional” to “contemporary” that have caused leaders to judge scripture reading as being “un-friendly” to church growth and a bad use of time. Ironically, conservative churches that affirm a strong belief in the Bible often have little or no public reading of scripture, while liberal and liturgical churches- who are often accused of not believing the Bible- have several lectionary scripture readings. Whatever the reasons, they are deplorable. 7. What is a “lesson?” A scripture reading from the Old Testament, Psalms, Epistles or Gospels. The Psalm may be a responsive reading.
