Monday, May 23, 2011

Kinds of worship

Matthew 15:8-9 says, “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” In these two verses, two kinds of worship are discussed.
The first is vain worship. Jesus said the people were hypocrites. Vain worship exalts the wisdom of man above God; it is will worship (Colossians 2:20-23). In 2 Samuel 7:1-6, David wanted to build God a temple. Was this a noble cause? Yes, but it was against God’s will. In Malachi 1:6-10, the Israelites were offering sub-standard sacrifices which did not make God happy, but they thought they were okay. None of us can ever do what we want and think that God will love and accept it. This is simply worshiping God in ignorance (Acts 17:22-23), and satisfying the desires of the flesh. There must be a better way.
The second is true worship. Hebrews 13:15 says, “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” True worship includes spirit, heart, and attitude; it is not based on man’s wisdom. Offering true worship means that someone loves God and keeps His law (John 14:15). While it may appear as if we constantly emphasize only actions, God wanted His law written in the heart, penetrating deep within man’s will, emotions, and intellect (Hebrews 8:10). Now, having said that, attitude is not the most important. When God tells us to do something to honor Him, we must be accurate, for this only will please Him (cf. Acts 2:42-47).
God wants worshipers who are convicted and knowledgable. We should want to grow up together in truth and love (Ephesians 4:15). Worship is not for our entertainment. It is respect that is paid to God, so please treat it appropriately!
Kyle Campbell

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