We would like to discuss some of the things the Bible has to say about worship. This is a very important theme for us to consider as we open the word of God. Let’s notice that there are 4 different kinds of worship described in the Bible.
First, the Bible speaks about will worship. In Colossians 2:23, “Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh.” This would certainly not be the kind of worship that God would desire from us, worship that comes from our wisdom and will.
Secondly, the Bible speaks about ignorant worship. Notice in Acts 17:23, “For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.” Now God would not solicit that we worship him ignorantly, as did these philosophers there in the city of Athens.
Thirdly, the Bible speaks about vain worship. Notice in Matthew 15:9, “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” The word vain means useless, empty, void, without value; thus the Lord is saying, that there are men who worship God, but it is in vain. God would not want this type of worship either.
Fourthly, we read about true worship. Let’s look in John 4:23-24, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” Yes indeed, this is the kind of worship that God desires! God is seeking people to worship him in spirit and in truth. Next time, we will discuss further this matter of being a true worshipper of God.
—Dan McKibben
