Introduction
Reformed Baptists hold to the regulative principle of worship (RPW) as a biblical standard for corporate worship. This principle teaches that only what God has commanded in Scripture is permitted in worship. In contrast to the normative principle—which allows anything not expressly forbidden—the regulative principle demands clear warrant from God's Word for every element of worship.

Biblical Foundation
The RPW is grounded in the Bible’s consistent testimony that God is to be worshiped according to His revealed will. Key texts include:

• Deuteronomy 12:32 – “Everything that I command you, you shall be careful to do. You shall not add to it or take from it.”

• Leviticus 10:1-3 – Nadab and Abihu offered “unauthorized fire” before the Lord, which He had not commanded, and were consumed in judgment.

• John 4:24 – “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

• Colossians 2:23 – Paul warns against self-made religion and worship that is not according to Christ.

These passages, among others, show that God is not indifferent to how He is worshiped. True worship is a response to divine revelation, not human creativity.

Historical Practice
The RPW was a hallmark of the Protestant Reformation, particularly among the Reformed and Puritan traditions. The 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith, which expresses the theology of Reformed Baptists, affirms this principle in Chapter 22:

“The acceptable way of worshiping the true God is instituted by Himself and so limited by His own revealed will, that He may not be worshiped according to the imaginations and devices of men…”

This confessional standard reflects a continuity with the historic Reformed understanding that worship must be shaped and bounded by Scripture alone.

Implications for Worship
Under the RPW, Reformed Baptists include in their corporate worship only those elements clearly taught or implied in Scripture. These include:

• The reading and preaching of Scripture

• Prayer

• Singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs

• The Sacraments (baptism and communion)

Forms and circumstances (e.g., meeting times, seating, microphones) are guided by wisdom and general principles, but the elements of worship must be grounded in divine command.

Conclusion
Reformed Baptists follow the regulative principle of worship out of a desire to honor God according to His Word. Worship is not a place for human innovation, but for reverent obedience. Because God is holy and worthy, and because worship is central to the life of the church, we aim to offer Him worship that is faithful, spiritual, and scripturally governed. In doing so, we seek not only to please God but also to edify His people in truth.