In charismatic churches worshipers speak gibberish and claim to be imitating the Christians of the first century. But how does the Bible define “tongue”?
Speaking the Truth in Love
Speaking the Truth in Love
Sermons on Praise and Worship (Page 2)
Even though a worship leader may be blessed with great natural talents, true worship isn’t about him. But if worship isn’t a display of his gifts, then what is a leader’s task?
Daniel prayed three times a day, even though his life was seriously threatened by corrupt colleagues. In circumstances like that, why should anyone pray and even give thanks to God? Isn’t it plain that prayer doesn’t really do any good?
Ephesians 3 14 For this reason I kneel before the Father, 15 from whom every family[a] in heaven and on earth derives its name. 16 I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17 so that Christ may dwell in your hearts…
Moses promised the people of Israel that God was bringing them into “a good land” (Deut. 8:7). He wasn’t talking about the United States, but his description of Canaan resonates with every thankful American.
In his first vision, Isaiah saw the divine King of Israel on his glorious throne (Isa. 6:1-10). The prophet’s magnificent experience shows us what happens in truly spiritual worship.
Jesus met a Samaritan woman at the Sychar well. In his conversation with her, he explained that God is seeking true worshipers, people to worship him in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24).
A temple is a place where God meets man. The glory of the Lord once filled the tabernacle. The glory of the Lord once filled Solomon’s temple. But now God’s house is the church (Eph. 2:19-22)
God commanded the people of Israel to set aside the seventh day of each week as a time for rest and worship. The Sabbath honored God as Creator of the world (Exod. 20:8-11). But the resurrection of Jesus ushered in a new creation, and his triumph over death didn’t come on a Sabbath.
After the reconstruction of Jerusalem’s wall was finished, the people gathered in the square before the Water Gate and worshiped God (Neh. 8:1-6). Their example helps us understand how to worship in a way that is pleasing to God and meaningful to us.