The Divine Initiative: Understanding Worship in Biblical Terms
Worship is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith, but it’s often misunderstood. According to David Peterson, an Anglican scholar, worship is “essentially an engagement with God on the terms that he proposes and in the way that he alone makes possible.” This means that true worship is not possible unless God himself enables it.
God’s Initiative in Revelation and Redemption
The Bible teaches that God initiates a relationship with humanity through revelation and redemption. In the Old Testament, God reveals himself to his people and redeems them, enabling them to relate to him in a way that was previously impossible. This is evident in the story of Abraham, where God calls him to leave his homeland and promises to make him a great nation.
The Pattern of Worship in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament, worship involves homage, service, and reverence. The Israelites are taught to respond to God’s revelation and redemption with gratitude and obedience. The tabernacle and the Levitical code, with its system of priests and sacrifices, become symbols of God’s presence among his people.
The Significance of Sacrifice
Sacrifice is a central aspect of Old Testament worship, but it’s often misunderstood. While pagan cults use sacrifice as a means of securing the goodwill of their gods, the Israelites understand sacrifice as a pattern of grace and gratitude. The shedding of blood on the Day of Atonement is a graphic illustration of the need for atonement and the ransom that God provides.
Responding to God’s Initiative
So how do we respond to God’s initiative in worship? According to Peterson, we are called to do homage to God, serve him, and revere him. This involves acknowledging God’s sovereignty and majesty, as well as our own sinfulness and need for redemption.
The Distinctives of Anglican Worship
Anglican worship is distinct because of its emphasis on the 1662 Book of Common Prayer. This book provides a framework for worship that is centered on the Bible and the sacraments. Anglican worship also emphasizes the importance of community and the role of the church in worship.
Conclusion
In conclusion, worship is a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith that involves responding to God’s initiative in revelation and redemption. By understanding worship in biblical terms, we can deepen our relationship with God and cultivate a more authentic and meaningful practice of worship. Whether we’re Anglicans or not, we can learn from the distinctives of Anglican worship and apply them to our own practice of worship.
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