Praise and Worship: Then and Now
A study of praise and worship, exploring its biblical roots and contemporary expressions.
1. The Foundation of Worship: God's Singular Nature
1.1 One God, One Worship
Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 45:5
- Worship is due to the one true God, the Creator of all.
- Scripture reveals God in singular terms, emphasizing His indivisible nature.
1.2 Jesus: God Manifest
Verses: John 1:1, 14; Colossians 2:9
- Jesus Christ is the full and complete manifestation of God.
- Worship of Jesus is, therefore, worship of God Himself.
2. Biblical Expressions of Praise
2.1 Davidic Worship
Verses: 2 Samuel 6:14; Psalm 150
- David's worship involved music, singing, and dancing.
- The Psalms are filled with expressions of praise, adoration, and thanksgiving.
2.2 Early Church Praise
Verses: Acts 2:46-47; Acts 3:8
- Early believers praised God continually in the temple and in their homes.
- Their worship was characterized by joy, unity, and a sense of awe.
2.3 Sacrificial Worship
Verses: Leviticus 1-7; Hebrews 10:1-10
- Worship in the Old Testament involved sacrifices and offerings.
- These sacrifices foreshadowed the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Worship
3.1 Empowered by the Spirit
Verses: John 4:24; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers to worship in spirit and in truth.
- Spirit-filled worship is characterized by spiritual gifts and manifestations.
3.2 Speaking in Tongues
Verses: 1 Corinthians 14:2; Acts 2:4
- Speaking in tongues is a spiritual gift that can be used in worship.
- It allows believers to communicate with God in a language beyond human understanding.
4. Contemporary Worship: Principles and Practices
4.1 Heartfelt Adoration
Verses: Matthew 15:8; Psalm 95:6
- Worship should be heartfelt and genuine, expressing our love and gratitude to God.
- It should be focused on God, not on ourselves or our own experiences.
4.2 The Power of Music
Verses: Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19
- Music plays an important role in contemporary worship.
- Songs should be theologically sound and uplifting, leading us into God's presence.
4.3 Living Worship
Verses: Romans 12:1; 1 Peter 2:9
- Worship is not limited to singing; it encompasses all aspects of our lives.
- We worship God through our actions, attitudes, and service to others.
5. Worship as a Lifestyle
5.1 Daily Devotion
Verses: Romans 12:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
- True worship extends beyond formal services and becomes a way of life.
- It involves offering our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.
5.2 Worship in All Things
Verses: Colossians 3:17; 1 Corinthians 10:31
- Our work, relationships, and leisure activities can all be acts of worship.
- By living righteously and serving others, we bring glory to God.