Rethinking Worship: More Than Music
As we explore the concept of worship across cultures and continents, a common thread emerges: singing with a congregation or the music associated with it. However, this narrow understanding can lead to a misunderstanding of the relationship between biblical worship and music. Music is merely a part of worship, not its heart.
Jesus Redefines Worship
In his conversation with the woman at the well, Jesus reveals the kind of worshiper God seeks: one who worships in spirit and truth (John 4:23). Jesus isn’t limiting worship to a specific time or place; instead, he offers a new option – himself. As the Truth, Jesus becomes the new temple where people from every nation can approach God to give him honor (Mark 14:58; John 2:18-22).
Worship Beyond Music
When we believe Jesus died as our substitute on the cross, receiving God’s wrath against our sins, we can be confident that our worship is accepted. Everything we do can be an act of worship. Worship isn’t something we initiate; it’s an invitation from God to join the perfect communion of the Triune God. We don’t approach God based on our own choice or ability; it takes God to worship God.
Implications of Jesus’ Words
Worship isn’t primarily about an experience, mood, or atmosphere; it’s about making much of God’s authority, goodness, and holiness as seen in Jesus Christ. We can do this anywhere, anytime – eating, drinking, driving, studying, talking, working, or playing. Worship involves not only our relationship with God but also our relationships with those he has reconciled to himself through the blood of Christ.
Worship Together
As Christians, we’re inextricably linked to everyone else in the family. They’re not a hindrance to our worship; rather, they’re an essential part of it. We worship God together, whether we want to or not. God’s presence has always been a defining characteristic of God’s people. We should long for the day when God will reveal himself fully to us in heaven.
A Grander Vision of Worship
While worship in the new heavens and new earth will certainly include singing, it will be much more than merely singing. Every activity will be carried out for one purpose: to magnify the glory and grace of God. Reflecting on that reality should motivate us to greater godliness, greater gratitude, and greater joy today. Yes, music is a part of worship, but let’s not miss the grander and more glorious vision of worship God has graciously given us in Jesus Christ.
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