As we continue examining the habits that bring us closer to God and which His Spirit uses to transform us increasingly into the likeness of Christ, we next consider what it means to worship, and specifically what it means to worship acceptably, in a godly manner, in spirit and in truth. To help us, we will consider the joyful season of worship the people of Israel engaged in just two weeks after hearing the Law read, as they delightedly observed the festival of booths as one united people.

 

Scripture Reference

Nehemiah 8: 13-18

Sermon Audio

Sermon Notes

The Ideal of worship (Revelation 7: 9-12); The Ideal for Lake Ridge Baptist Church

1. Godly Worship is Unified
   1. The Festival of Booths was a common,  unifying experience for the entire nation, intended to bring generations together to pass on their experiences with God (verse 17)
   2. We worship together (Hebrews 10: 25) and need to be God-focused, inviting, welcoming in, embracing toward others, and preparing for the joy of heaven
2. Godly Worship Fully Involves Our Heads
   1. The Festival of Booths centered around God’s Word
   2. Godly worship is built on God’s revelation of Himself through His Son and His Word – preached, prayed, sung, and read
      1. This is the truth part of “Spirit and truth”, but if you aren’t thinking about God, you aren’t worshiping
3. Godly Worship Fully Involves Our Hearts
   1. The Festival of Booths celebrated the experience of God’s presence in their lives – a time of rejoicing over God’s provision, protection, nature, faithfulness
   2. Godly Worship needs to involve our whole hearts – that’s the “spirit” part
      1. Rejoicing in God’s presence and provision
      2. Rejoicing in our salvation through Jesus Christ