“But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way.” — John 4:23 (NLT)
I was recently watching a UK detective show and was struck by a court scene in which the judge was constantly referred to as “your worship”. Many cities in the UK have a chief executive known as “the worshipful mayor”. These honorific titles express the thought that the office they hold is worthy of respect and honor. These examples got me thinking of the concept of “worship”, since as Christians we tend to use the term indiscriminately without thinking through what it really means. We have worship services, worship bands, praise and worship teams, worship leaders, among many other uses. Interestingly, the concept of worship isn’t at all limited to the church or religious contexts. Even in secular culture, people practice forms of “worship,” often directed toward things other than God. Understanding these contrasting forms of worship can help us better grasp the true meaning of worshiping God.
Worship is obviously a central part of our faith, but it’s often misunderstood. Many think of it as merely singing or attending a church service. However, worship is much deeper—it’s about offering our hearts and lives to God. It involves acknowledging His worth and giving Him the reverence He deserves. Jesus emphasized this to the Samaritan woman at the well in Sychar, teaching that worship is not about location or tradition but about engaging with God in spirit and truth.
To worship in spirit means to connect with God on a spiritual and emotional level. It’s not about external rituals but about an inward devotion. This kind of worship is personal, passionate, and sincere.
Jesus rebuked empty, superficial worship in Matthew 15:8-9: “‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’” (NLT)
True worship starts when we surrender our hearts to God and seek Him authentically. It’s not confined to a church building; it happens wherever we are when our hearts reach out to God.
In the secular world, people often pour their emotions and devotion into idols like celebrities, influencers, or relationships. Concerts, for instance, sometimes resemble worship gatherings. Fans lift their hands, sing with passion, and even shed tears for their favorite artists. While music can be inspiring and uniting, misplaced adoration becomes a form of secular worship, focused on human figures instead of the Creator.
To worship in truth means to worship God as He truly is, based on the revelation of His Word. It involves knowing God’s character and aligning our worship with who He says He is.
Jesus said, “Your word is truth” (John 17:17, NLT), emphasizing the importance of God’s Word as the foundation for authentic worship. Without truth, worship becomes misguided, centered on our feelings or false ideas about God. Truth keeps our worship focused on God’s holiness, sovereignty, and love.
Secular culture often encourages people to worship ideologies, possessions, or success. For example, consumerism drives many to devote their time and energy to acquiring material goods, believing these will bring happiness and fulfillment. Advertisements even use religious language, promising “salvation” through the newest product or experience.
This devotion mirrors worship but is rooted in false promises. Worship in truth reminds us that only God can satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me” (John 14:6, NLT).
So why does worship matter?
It glorifies God! Worship is an act of acknowledging God’s worth. Psalm 29:2 exhorts: “Honor the Lord for the glory of his name. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness.” (NLT) In a world that often glorifies human achievements, true worship re-centers us on God’s greatness. It draws us closer to God. When we worship, we draw near to God and experience His presence. James 4:8 promises: “Come close to God, and God will come close to you.” (NLT) Unlike secular pursuits, which often leave us feeling empty, worship fills us with God’s peace and joy.
Worship transforms us. Romans 12:1-2 reminds us that worship isn’t just about singing; it’s about offering our lives as a living sacrifice: “This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” (Romans 12:1-2, NLT) Secular culture often pressures us to conform, but worship aligns us with God’s will and renews our minds.
How do we cultivate a lifestyle of worship?
Begin each day with praise and thanksgiving. Psalm 100:4 encourages: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.” (NLT)
Worship isn’t just about singing; it’s about living in obedience. Jesus said, “If you love me, obey my commandments” (John 14:15, NLT).
Ask yourself: Are there things in my life I’m “worshiping” more than God? Redirect your focus to Him.
Gather with other believers. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us: “And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another.” (NLT)
True worship is about more than an hour on Sunday. It’s a daily surrender to God, offering our hearts and lives to Him in spirit and truth. Secular culture offers many substitutes for worship—celebrity adoration, consumerism, success—but these ultimately fall short. Only God deserves our highest praise, and only He can satisfy our deepest longings.
Let’s take a moment today to examine our hearts. Are there areas where you’ve allowed secular “worship” to creep in? Ask God to re-center your life on Him and help you worship in spirit and truth.
Blessings on you and yours, Jim Black
P.S. if you’d like to read previous ruminations of mine they can be found at https://www.salvationarmyconcordca.org/chronicle/?category=Bible%20Study