Holiness In Worship Series

Title: HOLINESS IN WORSHIP

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Hebrews 12:28

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”

Supporting Texts:

John 4:23-24

Romans 12:1

Psalm 29:2

Psalm 99:9

1 Peter 1:15-16

INTRODUCTION:

Worship is the highest form of reverence and adoration we can give to God. Holiness in worship is not only about the outward acts, such as singing or kneeling, but it is also about the condition of our hearts and the purity of our intentions. God desires worship that is holy, where we offer ourselves as living sacrifices, and where we worship Him in spirit and truth. This study will explore how holiness should permeate every aspect of our worship, from the heart to the practice, and how we can present ourselves before God with reverence and awe.

1. WORSHIP IS A SACRIFICE OF HOLINESS

Holiness in worship begins with offering ourselves as living sacrifices, set apart for God’s service.

a) Worship Is a Lifestyle, Not Just a Moment

True worship is not limited to a Sunday service or a specific moment; it is the way we live daily, presenting our bodies as living sacrifices to God (Romans 12:1).

b) Worship as an Expression of a Holy Life

Holiness in worship involves aligning our actions, words, and thoughts with God’s will, ensuring that our lives reflect His holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16).

c) The Offering of Our Whole Selves

When we worship, we offer not just our songs or prayers but our entire lives, which should be holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1).

d) Consecration is Key to True Worship

True worship requires consecrating ourselves to God, setting ourselves apart from the world and dedicating our lives to Him (Psalm 99:9).

e) Biblical Example:

The dedication of the temple by Solomon (1 Kings 8:22-23) demonstrates how holiness and sacrifice are key elements in worship, as Solomon prayed a holy prayer for the temple.

2. WORSHIP IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH

God desires worship that is not only outward but also inward, coming from a pure heart and aligned with the truth of His Word.

a) Worship in Spirit Is an Act of the Heart

Worship in spirit involves engaging our hearts and minds with God, not just performing outward rituals (John 4:23-24).

b) Worship in Truth Aligns with God’s Word

True worship aligns with God’s truth as revealed in His Word. It requires us to worship God according to His will, not based on personal preferences (John 4:23-24).

c) The Role of the Holy Spirit in Worship

The Holy Spirit enables us to worship in spirit and truth, guiding our hearts and leading us to deeper expressions of worship (Romans 8:26).

d) Purity of Heart is Required for True Worship

God looks at the heart, and our worship must come from a pure heart, free from sin and hypocrisy (Psalm 24:3-4).

e) Biblical Example:

David’s worship, when he danced before the Lord with all his might (2 Samuel 6:14-16), was a demonstration of worship in spirit and truth, an expression from the heart.

3. HOLY REVERENCE IN WORSHIP

Holiness in worship also involves reverence and awe as we come into the presence of the Holy God.

a) Worshiping God with Awe and Fear

We should approach worship with reverence, acknowledging that we are in the presence of a holy and all-powerful God (Hebrews 12:28).

b) The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Worship

True worship begins with a deep sense of awe and respect for God's greatness and holiness, recognizing His authority over all creation (Psalm 29:2).

c) Honoring God in Worship

We honor God by acknowledging His greatness in every act of worship, whether through music, prayer, or offering (Psalm 95:6).

d) The Holiness of God Calls Us to Holy Worship

When we worship, we are coming before a holy God, and this demands holiness on our part. We must approach Him with clean hands and a pure heart (Psalm 24:3-4).

e) Biblical Example:

When Isaiah saw the vision of God in the temple, he cried out, "Woe to me, I am undone!" recognizing the holiness of God (Isaiah 6:1-5). His response was one of reverence and awe, and it led to his purification.

4. THE ROLE OF THE CHURCH IN HOLY WORSHIP

Holiness in worship is not just an individual responsibility but a collective one. The church plays a key role in leading the congregation in holy worship.

a) Leading Worship with Holiness

Worship leaders, pastors, and all who participate in leading worship should model holiness in their lives and practices, setting an example for the congregation (Psalm 29:2).

b) Congregational Worship as a Holy Gathering

When the body of Christ comes together to worship, it is a holy gathering where God's presence is sought and experienced collectively (Matthew 18:20).