The following articles are related to the topic of WORSHIP

Is the Holy Spirit Worthy of Worship?

Is the Holy Spirit God in nature? If so, is it appropriate to worship him? There is a controversy that appears to be swirling about the Christian community these days, and it is this: "Is the Holy Spirit a proper object of Christian worship?" Some adamantly claim he is not.They challenge for a passage that specifically commands: "Worship the Holy ... read more »

Denomination Claims Biblical Worship

A denominational church publication makes the following claim: "Our worship is based upon the Bible's pattern of worship unto the Lord." [It further contains the following.] "We hope this pamphlet will explain to you why we worship as we do." In consideration of the pamphlet, there are both positive and negative things upon which we must reflect. The positive aspects ... read more »

Dignity in Worship Leadership

Under the Mosaic dispensation a special class served as the leaders of worship for the nation of Israel-they were called "priests." Aaron and his offspring (via the tribe of Levi) officiated in the tabernacle worship ceremonies according to divine prescriptions. The priests were required to wear certain garments in the administration of their ceremonial duties as they led in worship. ... read more »

Philippians 3:1ff – Regulated Worship

It is an amazing thing that there are those who profess to know the Bible, yet who contend that God has left man free to improvise his own worship system. Like Jeroboam, the son of Nebat (1 Kings 12:25-33), they are innovators. The early church was not without its problems with persons of this philosophy. In Philippians 3:1ff, Paul calls ... read more »

Fashion Oddities and Public Worship

I well remember an occasion in my early teens when a friend of mine got a "mohawk" haircut. I asked my parents if I could get one. They said "no," and that settled the issue. Those were the days when parents still were in control, and the "tail" didn't wag the "dog." Ever since the radical "60's," it appears that ... read more »

Paul’s Condemnation of Will-Worship

The church at Colossae was troubled by a heretical movement that seriously compromised the integrity of the Christian gospel. It was a conglomerate mixture of Judaism, asceticism (radical self-abuse), and proto-Gnosticism. For an extended discussion, see Lightfoot (1892, 71-111). One aspect of the heresy depicted by Paul was this: Which things have indeed a show of wisdom in will-worship, and ... read more »

The Growing Trend of Performance Worship

Acceptable worship is a God-centered phenomenon. It involves not only an attitude, but also a submission to certain prescribed acts. Through worship, Christian people, grateful for divine redemption, pour out their souls in adoration to deity. When men, in their worship, seek to direct attention to themselves, instead of God, they seriously err. This is a truth that some learn ... read more »

Is It Appropriate to Worship Jesus?

"Some of the songs we sing in worship address Christ. Is it appropriate to worship Jesus?" It is not surprising that some cultists, who deny the deity of Christ, should eschew the worship of the Lord. What is shocking is the fact that some-who are quite sincere, but who ought to know better, and hopefully will learn better-are expressing themselves ... read more »

1 Corinthians 14:26 – Presentation Worship

It is becoming increasingly popular to assert that the New Testament contains the authority for "presentation worship" in the church assembly. By this it is meant that activities like solo and group singing are sanctioned in the Scriptures. First Corinthians 14:26 is cited as proof. The fact is, 1 Corinthians 14:26ff offers no such support. The apostle asks: "What is ... read more »

Giving as an Expression of Worship

Is the Christian's giving into the treasury of the church on the Lord's day an expression of worship to God? This is a question of supreme importance. In part, at least, worship may be described as an expression of awe, devotion, and love - from man, the creature, to his Creator. One aspect of this reverential disposition can entail the ... read more »