Throughout history flags and ribbons have been used in many significant ways – declaration and proclamation, worship, battle and celebration. Flags have become increasingly popular in churches to demonstrate freedom of expression and encourage other people to experience and try out dance and moving with their faith. Today I want to share 4 good things to know about worship flags in the Bible.
‘May God do what you want most and let all go well for you. Then you win victories and we will celebrate whilst raising our banners in the name of God.’
Psalm 20:4-5
Know this before you start
Flags and banners themselves have no power. The significance is in Scripture and what they symbolize, God ‘inhabits the praises of His people’ and brings the kingdom in when we choose to take them up in faith.
However, I feel strongly, that flags and banners should not be picked up lightly. There is a lot more power in them, than people realise. They are a vehicle to talk to God, to communicate, worship and share your heart. Be aware of this, as you choose to move with them.
Let’s try and understand them a bit more…
How are worship flags used in the Bible?
Historically in the Bible there were 4 different ways worship flags and banners were used. Let’s look at an overview.
- Israel’s banner of God being with them demonstrated how they were a people who belonged to God. They housed the Ark of the Covenant, with them morning and evening. It was a symbol of God saying I am with you, just like we have the Holy Spirit.
- Each tribe had one rallying point for the fighting men of the tribes. This brought together a demonstration of military and fighting force. They could look to the horizon and know the banner they needed to get back to.
- The next level was tribal unit identity. There were 3 tribes on each side NESW, so they knew exactly where they belonged – their identity.
- Finally there were family clan units – these were based on the location of other banners, families always knew where to camp. The banners acted as reference points, therefore giving individuals purpose and vision.
What can banners do?
- Tell people who you represent, bit like a signal pole always high on a hill.
- Signal of intent about what is to come – Jeremiah 51.12
- Indicate past victories they’d come through – different ribbons are attached to their pole under their banner depending on the battle won. Psalm 20.5 and 7
- Indication of Gods presence – Moses and Aaron’s staff are banners that have been lifted and a response occurred. Exodus – 25
- Put enemies to flight. Isaiah 31.9
‘Lift up a banner against the wall of Babylon! Reinforce the guard, station the watchmen, prepare an ambush! The Lord will carry out His purpose, his decree against the people of Babylon.’
Jeremiah 51:12
Remember this going forward about worship flags in the Bible.
This is very quick overview of the use of worship flags in the Bible. But hopefully offers you a small insight into what the Bible says, and areas to think about when you choose to dance with flags.
I like to remember it as a visual demonstration of a spiritual truth. Just like moving normally, you never know the impact moving with flags and banners can have on you and others who may witness it. The colour you use can create just as much impact.
If you’d like to know more about ways that you adapt choreography to use flags head here. There are also some tips on using ribbons in worship here.
Finally, want to come and try using resources during your worship? Then get in touch with me here to chat about me coming to your church, where you can try out ways of moving with flags, ribbons and material. No prior experience necessary!
You can also head to Shop where there is a selection of flags, ribbons and streamers that you can purchase to get you going.
Want to keep up with UC Grace journey? We’d love to keep you in the loop. Head here to get your name down!
Hi Anna,
Interesting read! I never knew or thought about the significance of them. To be honest I’ve always associated it with either little children or (sorry if it sounds patronising) the older generation.x
That’s not surprising. For some of those generations it allows them to access worship and movement together in a safe way. I think it’s good remind ourselves sometimes, why we do what we do!
Hi Anna,
Interesting read! I never knew or thought about the significance of them. To be honest I’ve always associated it with either little children or (sorry if it sounds patronising) the older generation.x
That’s not surprising. For some of those generations it allows them to access worship and movement together in a safe way. I think it’s good remind ourselves sometimes, why we do what we do!
I’m just inquiring about the cost and what colors represent. I know the church I used to attend had purple. I know they had meaning. I would like to have some for myself. I go to a small church but maybe I could introduce this in my church. I’m sure they know but no one does stuff like this. There’s only a few guys and older women. There’s more people but since covid they stay home still.
I’m just inquiring about the cost and what colors represent. I know the church I used to attend had purple. I know they had meaning. I would like to have some for myself. I go to a small church but maybe I could introduce this in my church. I’m sure they know but no one does stuff like this. There’s only a few guys and older women. There’s more people but since covid they stay home still.
Hi
How would worship flags be use as an Evangelism tool?
Worship flags offer an opportunity for a conversation to explain what you are doing and the intention behind what you are doing, but also a chance to speak about God’s word and what it says about flags. They are also eye catching and colourful offering the chance to tell a story. In addition, offering the public a chance to engage with the flags themselves allows them the opportunity to experience a walk with God.
If you pray and understand your intention with worship flags they can be used to draw people in to knowing more about Jesus. The use of the flags is just one tiny element that may offer you a conversation and an inlet. I hope that helps.