Frequently asked questions

For more information, see the Tenets of Faith of the Assemblies of God.

Why do we clap our hands?

Clapping our hands is a form of praise mentioned in the Bible which often accompanies the singing of praise songs. For example, Psalms 47:1 tells the people of God, “Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph.”

Reference: Psalm 47:1 :: Isaiah 55:12

Why do we lift our hands?

More than fifty times in the Psalms the word Towdah or Yadah is translated “praise” which means to extend the hands in praise. The raising of hands is done to express adoration and worship to God, and is also a sign of surrender to His will.

Reference: Psalm 63:4 :: 1 Timothy 2:8

Why do we praise the Lord out loud?

The Bible encourages the believer to praise the Lord with a loud voice. When believers are deeply touched by the Lord many will pray and thank God audibly during times of corporate thanksgiving, prayer and praise. Others may pray silently expressing little outward emotion while others may weep openly as they are touched deeply by the presence of the Lord. Some may even be led to “dance before the Lord,” bow or kneel before Him. All forms of expression of devotion are encouraged as long as they are sincere and done decently and in order.

Reference: Psalm 100:1 & 2 :: Revelation 19:1 & 6

Why do we sing and pray in tongues and in English?

Singing and praying in tongues was a common practice in the New Testament church. Paul the apostle writes about this in the New Testament. Please refer to the scriptures below.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 14:5, 44 & 15

What is speaking with tongues and interpretation?

Various kinds of tongues are a supernatural utterance by the Holy Spirit in a language that was never learned or understood by the speaker. The interpretation of tongues is the supernatural manifestation by the Holy Spirit of the meaning of an utterance in other tongues.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:7 & 10 :: 1 Corinthians 14:27

Why are musical instruments part of the worship service?

In the book of Psalms, David tells us to praise God with musical instruments. We believe that God is blessed when he hears us praising him with our hearts and our music.

Reference: Psalm 150:3-5

Why does the whole church pray at once for specific needs?

We are told in scripture to pray together. From time to time, we encourage the whole Church to pray in unison for specific needs. Joining our voices and our hearts in one accord in prayer to God is a biblical pattern for the Church as is praying together in tongues and in English.

Reference: Matthew 19:19

Why do we pray for the sick and anoint with oil?

We are admonished in the Word of God to call for the elders to anoint with oil and pray for the sick. This is another common practice of the New Testament church.

Reference: James 5:14 & 15