Looking at the past is always an opportunity to discover how much we have changed. History, when examined carefully, allows us to reflect on our values, priorities, and the direction we are taking as individuals and as communities of faith. This principle is not foreign to Scripture. In fact, there is a biblical verse where God explicitly invited the people of Israel to look back with discernment and humility: “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” (Jeremiah 6:16).
This passage does not call for nostalgia for its own sake, nor does it promote blind traditionalism. Instead, it invites God’s people to examine the past in order to identify what was good, faithful, and aligned with God’s will. The “old paths” represent practices, convictions, and attitudes that were rooted in obedience and reverence. By recalling them, the people were given an opportunity to find spiritual rest. Sadly, the verse also reminds us that such invitations are often rejected.
When applied to the life of the church, this biblical principle encourages thoughtful reflection rather than reactionary judgment. Looking back helps believers evaluate whether changes over time have strengthened or weakened their devotion to God. It is not about declaring that everything in the past was better, but about asking honest questions regarding reverence, order, doctrine, and the focus of worship.
Have you ever wondered how God was worshiped in Pentecostal churches about 30 years ago? For many believers, especially younger generations, this period is unfamiliar. Others may remember it vividly as a formative time in their spiritual lives. In the video that we will share with you later, it becomes evident that worship services during that era were often marked by a greater sense of order in church liturgy or ceremony.
Pentecostal worship in the late 1980s and 1990s was typically characterized by simplicity. Music was central, yet it was usually led by small worship groups rather than large, professionally produced teams. Songs were often slower, more repetitive, and deeply rooted in themes of repentance, holiness, gratitude, and surrender. The emphasis was not on performance but on participation, inviting the congregation to sing, pray, and reflect together.
Another notable aspect was the structure of the service. While Pentecostal worship has always allowed room for spontaneity, many congregations maintained a clear flow that balanced freedom with reverence. Prayer, Scripture reading, congregational singing, preaching, and altar calls followed a recognizable pattern. This structure provided a sense of stability and helped keep the focus on God rather than on individual expression.
It is important to acknowledge that over the last 30 years, many Pentecostal congregations have evolved in different ways. Cultural changes, technological advances, and generational shifts have all influenced how worship is expressed today. Music styles have diversified, production quality has increased, and services have adapted to modern expectations. However, the purpose of this reflection is not to debate whether these changes are right or wrong.
Rather, the intention is to show, through this video, how Pentecostals of 30 years ago worshiped the Lord. Observing these past practices can help viewers understand the spiritual atmosphere of that time and consider what elements might still be valuable today. It offers an opportunity to reflect on whether certain qualities—such as reverence, attentiveness, and collective participation—have been preserved or diminished.
One of the most striking differences often noticed is the posture of the congregation. In older Pentecostal services, worshipers frequently stood quietly during songs, eyes closed, hands lifted, fully engaged in prayer and singing. There was a noticeable seriousness, not devoid of joy, but marked by an awareness of God’s holiness. Moments of silence were common, allowing space for reflection and response.
Additionally, preaching played a central role. Sermons were often longer and heavily focused on Scripture, calling believers to repentance, faithfulness, and personal holiness. Worship and preaching were closely connected, both aiming to direct hearts toward obedience to God. Emotional expressions were present, yet they were generally framed within a strong emphasis on biblical teaching.
Comparing past and present worship inevitably raises important questions. Has modern worship gained accessibility and creativity at the expense of depth? Or has it simply adapted to reach a new generation with the same message? These are not questions with simple answers, and they require humility and discernment rather than division.
The Bible reminds us that God does not change, even as cultural expressions do. True worship is not defined by style but by sincerity, truth, and obedience. Whether expressed through hymns, contemporary songs, quiet reflection, or joyful praise, worship should always point to God’s glory rather than human preference.
By watching this video, viewers are invited to reflect on what worship meant then and what it means now. Some may feel inspired by the simplicity and reverence of past services. Others may recognize the value of engaging newer generations through contemporary forms. Both perspectives can coexist if the ultimate goal remains honoring God.
It is also worth noting that remembering the past can foster gratitude. Many believers today stand on the spiritual foundations laid by previous generations who prayed, worshiped, and served faithfully. Recognizing this heritage can encourage humility and respect, reminding us that the church did not begin with us and will continue after us.
We would like you to tell us in the comments what you think of today’s worship compared to before. Do you see strengths in both eras? Are there aspects of past worship that you believe should be recovered? Thoughtful dialogue on these matters can help believers grow in understanding and unity.
Ultimately, looking back should lead us forward with greater wisdom. Just as Jeremiah urged the people to seek the good way and walk in it, modern believers are called to evaluate their practices in light of Scripture. May this reflection encourage a deeper, more intentional approach to worship—one that honors God in spirit and in truth.