i12go4God

**Chapter 1: Worship in the Old Testament**

 

To understand the evolution of worship that Christians are called to in the Ministry of the New Covenant, we must first delve into the Old Testament, the original law, and the very foundations of worship.

 

The Old Testament provides insight into the initial concept of worshiping God. During this epoch, worship was predominantly concentrated around the tabernacle, the temple, or synagogue rituals. A myriad of laws and rituals guided the Jewish people’s relationship with God (Leviticus 1-7). 

 

**1. Temple Worship: Its Implications**

God commanded the building of the temple, a centralized place of worship. The architectural details of the temple as specified in 1 Kings 6 and 7 were symbolic, intending towards creating a focus for the Israelites’ devout activities. Ritualistic worship within the temple centered around the offering of sacrifices (Exodus 29), signifying an offering of life to God.

Sacrifices such as the Burnt Offering, Grain Offering, Peace Offering, Sin Offering, and Guilt Offering were instituted (Leviticus 1:3-17, 2:1-16, 3:1-17, 4:1-35, 5:14-6:7). Each distinct ritual served as an atonement mechanism to restore the ruptured relationship between God and His followers.

 

**2. Synagogue and Tabernacle Rituals: The Prime Form of Worship**

 

As God’s chosen people, the Israelites were provided with the echelon of engaging in worship. Firstly, the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:8), ‘mikdash’ meaning a sacred place representing God’s dwelling place in the midst of His people. Second, Synagogues, which emerged during the Babylonian captivity when the temple was not accessible, became the gathering place to hear the Torah and offer prayers (Jeremiah 39:8-10).

 

Feasts such as the Passover (Exodus 12:1-51), Feast of Weeks (Deuteronomy 16:9-10), Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:1–34), and Year of Jubilee (Leviticus 25:8–13) were God’s way of setting “appointed times” for communal worship. 

 

**3. Limitations: Broadening the Scope of Worship**

 

The Old Testament era worship was mostly about outward conformity to a set of rules, and it was limited to specific locations and occasions. For instance, King David lamented when he couldn’t attend the tabernacle to worship among the assembly (Psalm 42:1-4).

 

While rich in symbolism and reverence towards God’s grandeur, there were limitations. The high priests were the only ones allowed to enter into the Most Holy Place (Hebrews 9:7). This inherently represented a separated relationship between God and His people.

 

In conclusion, the Old Testament worship was an elaborate layer of rituals that’s serving as a foreshadowing of our relationship with God. For the spirit of God was with them, yet the access to God was not as explicit as seen in the New Testament which includes the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the arrival of the Holy Spirit. This transition inaugurated the era of a more intimate and radically different form of worship, which we shall explore in the next chapter.

 

 

**Chapter 2: Transition into New Testament Worship**

 

Understanding worship in the Old Testament helps illustrate the significant shift to New Testament’s perspective. God’s relationship with humanity entered a new era with the advent of Jesus Christ, giving birth to a transformed form of worship.

 

**1. The Advent of Jesus and Its Impact**

 

The arrival of Jesus Christ signaled a paradigm shift in the worship landscape. Through His life and teachings, Jesus unveiled a more intimate connection with God, one that went beyond the confines of physical space and rituals. His teachings emphasized the spirit and truth as the cornerstones of worship (John 4:23-24).

 

Jesus demonstrated that worship was not isolated to the temple or synagogue settings. Throughout his ministry, He worshipped in homes, on mountains, by the sea, and in the wilderness, showing that the presence of God was ubiquitous.

 

Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross served not only as an atonement for all sins (Romans 5:11) but also represented the ultimate act of worship – giving oneself entirely to God (Philippians 2:8). Post-resurrection, the curtain of the Holy of Holies in the Temple tore from top to bottom, signifying that the separation between God and His people had been removed (Matthew 27:51).

 

**2. Expanding the Avenues of Worship**

 

The gift of the Holy Spirit to the disciples on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-47) initiated an era of internalized worship. Christian believers were now the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19). This meant every believer could worship God directly, no longer needing a human priest as an intermediary (Hebrews 10:19-22).

 

Worshipping God transitioned from being an action restricted to a particular place and time to an ongoing lifestyle. The Apostle Paul exhorted the believers in Rome to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, viewing such an act as true and proper worship (Romans 12:1-2). This emphasized that worship had moved beyond the ritualistic sacrifices of the Old Testament.

 

**3. New Testament Worship: Going Beyond the Physical**

 

New Testament worship extended to everyday life. Worship became more than just actions or rituals; it was an attitude and lifestyle where all of life’s facets were presented before God (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). Singing hymns, encouraging each other, sharing communion, and helping the needy too were recognized as forms of worship (Colossians 3:16; Acts 2:42; James 1:27).

 

Paul’s words to the church in Colossae were instructive of this all-encompassing nature of worship, literally suggesting that whether one eats, drinks, or does whatever they do, it should all be done to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31).

 

Worship in the New Testament carried deeply personal connotations. It was about the transformation of the heart and mind and an intimate relationship with God. Every believer was called to engage in a lifelong process of worship, with every moment and every aspect of life serving as an opportunity to praise God.

 

While many rituals and practices introduced in the Old Testament continued, their purpose and significance were redefined in the New Testament. The focus was not on a physical location or formalized rituals; it was about love for God, expressed through a life lived according to His teachings.

 

As we proceed with the remaining chapters, we will explore how these transformed concepts of worship apply in relation to various aspects of life such as work, family relationships, sexuality, recreation, and church assemblies, all used to approach God with our worship.

 

 

**Chapter 3: Everyday Life as Worship**

 

The New Testament reinstated the perspective that everyday life itself is an act of worship. In contrast to the Old Testament where worship was restricted to sacrificial offerings and observing holy days, the New Testament encourages approaching God through the way we live our day to day lives.

 

**1. Importance and Implications of Viewing Everyday Life as Worship**

 

In its essence, worship is acknowledging and responding to God’s supremacy and love. Apostle Paul in his letter to the Romans exhorted the believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). This submission to God, out of reverence and love, should permeate every aspect of a Christian’s life. 

 

Christian worship in everyday life signifies all actions performed through faith and compassion in response to God’s love. This encompasses the smallest decisions to major life choices, all done in accordance with God’s word.

 

**2. Guidance from the New Testament on Transforming Everyday Activities into Worship**

 

The New Testament provides us with numerous examples of how commonplace activities become acts of devotion when performed in the spirit of glorifying God. 

 

– Paul, in 1 Corinthians 10:31, advocates that “So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This scripture emphasizes how even mundane activities of eating and drinking can be dedicated acts of worship when undertaken with gratitude towards God’s provisions. 

 

– The act of offering hospitality can turn into an act of worship as noted in Hebrews 13:2.

 

– Perhaps the most significant form of daily worship is the fresh surrendering to God’s will. Jesus, in Matthew 26:39, portrayed the epitome of this by accepting the divine purpose despite his personal turmoil, setting an example for all believers.

 

**3. The Transformation of Mundane to Worship – An Approach to Consider**

 

Everyday life is saturated with potential opportunities for worship. It’s all about how we approach the tasks and relate them to our faith.

 

– **Prayer:** In everything, presenting our requests to God through prayer is an integral part of a worship-filled life (Philippians 4:6). It’s not about always asking for something, but acknowledging his presence in your every moment.

 

– **Work:** Whether it’s housework, office work, or volunteer work—it can all be an act of worship if we do it sincerely and with the intent to glorify God (Colossians 3:23). 

 

– **Action & Speech:** What we say, how we act, are all mirrors reflecting our devotion and reverence to God, making them parts of our worship (Colossians 3:17).

 

– **Rest:** Even our rest can be an act of worship, a testimony to our trust in God’s provision, and a moment to rejuvenate and reconnect with Him (Psalm 127:2, Exodus 20:8-11).

 

So, we perceive that every aspect of our daily lives builds up an ongoing dialogue with God. It’s about constant communion with the Divine, inviting God’s presence into our human experiences, and aligning our thoughts, words, and actions with Him in praise and adoration.

 

As we move forward, we will delve into understanding how specific avenues of life like work, family relationships, sexuality, recreation, and church assemblies can be, and are inherently forms of worship as indicated throughout the New Testament.

 

**Chapter 4: Daily Work as Worship**

 

In the New Testament, the concept of worship extends beyond the confines of religious rituals and encompasses every sphere of life, including our daily work. This chapter explores the idea that work, when approached with the right mindset, can be an act of worship in itself.

 

**1. How Our Work Can Be Done for God’s Glory**

 

In Colossians 3:23, the apostle Paul encourages believers, saying, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” This verse highlights the transformative power of our perspective, shifting our motivation from simply completing tasks for earthly gain to dedicating our efforts for the glory of God.

 

Our work can reflect our gratitude, humility, excellence, and integrity. It can provide an opportunity to serve others, contribute to society, and fulfill our God-given talents and abilities.

 

**2. New Testament Origins for Work as Worship**

 

Throughout the New Testament, we find examples and instructions on how to approach work as an act of worship.

 

– The apostle Paul, who himself was a tentmaker (Acts 18:3), emphasized the importance of laboring honestly with one’s hands to provide for oneself and others (Ephesians 4:28, 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12). He saw work as a means to support oneself and to have the ability to give to those in need.

 

– In 1 Corinthians 10:31, Paul broadens the concept of work as worship, encouraging believers to do everything for the glory of God. This includes not only traditional forms of employment but also volunteer work, creative pursuits, and caretaking responsibilities.

 

**3. Balancing Work, Worship, and Christian Life**

 

While recognizing the value of work as worship, it is vital to maintain a healthy balance between work, worship, and other aspects of the Christian life.

 

– Time for Rest: God instituted the Sabbath as a day of rest (Exodus 20:8-11). Observing regular times of rest helps rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and spirits, allowing us to approach work with renewed energy.

 

– Priorities and Perspective: It is essential to prioritize our relationship with God and seek His guidance in our work. By keeping our focus on eternal values, we can avoid being consumed by the pursuit of worldly success or material gain (Matthew 6:19-21).

 

– Serving Others: Work is not just about personal achievement but also an opportunity to serve and bless others (Galatians 5:13). Whether in leadership roles or as team members, Christ-like attitudes of love, humility, and selflessness should permeate our interactions and influence our work.

 

– Being Light in the Workplace: Our conduct and character at work are essential in demonstrating our faith. Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

 

In summary, when approached with a kingdom mindset, our daily work can be an act of worship. By recognizing the inherent value and purpose in our work, seeking to honor God, serving others, and maintaining a balanced perspective, we integrate our faith with our professional lives, presenting our work as an offering of worship to the Lord.

 

**Chapter 5: Family Relationships as Worship**

 

Family relationships hold immense significance in the life of a believer, and the New Testament provides guidance on how these relationships can be approached as acts of worship unto God.

 

**1. The Christian Family**

 

The foundation of the Christian family is rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles revealed in the New Testament. The family unit is seen as a sacred institution where love, support, and spiritual growth are nurtured.

 

**2. Role of Family Relationships in Worship**

 

Family relationships offer a unique opportunity to cultivate worshipful experiences within the Christian household where love, unity, and spiritual growth flourish. Several scriptural passages outline the responsibilities and attitudes that contribute to worship within the family.

 

– Ephesians 5:22-6:4 provides instructions for husbands and wives, children and parents, emphasizing mutual submission, sacrificial love, and the passing on of godly values to future generations.

  

– Colossians 3:18-21 highlights the importance of mutual respect, forgiveness, and grace within family relationships, with a specific focus on the roles of wives, husbands, children, and fathers.

 

**3. New Testament Teachings on Family Worship**

 

The New Testament encourages specific practices within the family that foster worshipful experiences:

 

– Prayer: Regular family prayer time helps bring the family together, seek God’s guidance, and lift one another up in prayer (Matthew 18:19-20).

 

– Discipleship: Engaging in shared Bible study, teaching, and discussion within the family strengthens faith, understanding, and spiritual growth (Deuteronomy 6:6-7, 2 Timothy 3:14-15).

 

– Acts of Service: Demonstrating love through acts of service within the family reflects the selfless love of Christ and brings glory to God (John 13:14-15, 1 Peter 4:10).

 

– Honoring and Respecting: Treating one another with honor, respect, and kindness reflects the love of Christ and creates an atmosphere conducive to worship (Ephesians 5:33, 1 Peter 3:7).

 

– Building Healthy Relationships: Nurturing strong bonds, resolving conflicts in a godly manner, and fostering open communication contribute to a harmonious and worshipful atmosphere (Proverbs 15:1, Ephesians 4:31-32).

 

By intentionally cultivating these practices within the family unit, believers create an environment where love, discipleship, and worship flow naturally. The family becomes a place where God’s presence is felt, His values are lived out, and His name is exalted.

 

In conclusion, family relationships offer a profound opportunity to live out worship in our daily lives. By following the teachings of the New Testament, families can foster an environment where love, respect, and spiritual growth thrive, thereby glorifying God through their interactions and enriching their worshipful experiences.

 

**Chapter 6: Sexuality as Worship**

 

Sexuality plays a significant role in the human experience, and the New Testament provides guidance on how Christians can approach sexuality as an act of worship and honor God through their intimate relationships.

 

**1. Understanding Sexuality in Christianity**

 

Sexuality, as defined within Christianity, is aligned with God’s original design for human relationships. It is a gift from God, intended for procreation, the expression of love, and the intimate unity between a married man and woman (Genesis 2:24, Song of Solomon 4:9-10, 1 Corinthians 7:2-5).

 

Within the Christian context, sexual intimacy is reserved for the covenant of marriage. It is a sacred bond that reflects the profound love and commitment between husband and wife, as outlined throughout the Bible.

 

**2. Honoring God through Sexuality: New Testament Guidelines for Intimacy**

 

In the New Testament, various passages provide guidance on how married Christians can honor God through their sexual relationships. These guidelines highlight mutual respect, faithfulness, love, and selflessness within the context of marriage.

 

– Mutual Love and Selflessness: In Ephesians 5:25, husbands are instructed to love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the church. This selfless love fosters an environment of trust and intimacy within the marriage relationship.

 

– Faithfulness and Exclusivity: Hebrews 13:4 emphasizes the importance of keeping the marriage bed undefiled and living in complete faithfulness to one’s spouse. This encourages a commitment to exclusivity within the marriage relationship, guarding against infidelity and promoting trust.

 

– Mutual Consent and Consideration: The Apostle Paul addresses the importance of mutual consent and consideration in 1 Corinthians 7:3-5. Both husband and wife are encouraged to meet each other’s sexual needs and to approach intimacy with love and respect.

 

– Flee from Sexual Immorality: In 1 Corinthians 6:18, Christians are called to flee from sexual immorality, recognizing that sexual expression outside the covenant of marriage is contrary to God’s design and detrimental to spiritual well-being.

 

It is vital to approach sexuality in a way that aligns with biblical principles and seeks to honor God. Understanding the sacredness of marital intimacy, fostering love, faithfulness, selflessness, and mutual consent within the marriage relationship contributes to an environment where sex becomes an act of worship, a physical expression of love, and a reflection of God’s design.

 

**Chapter 7: Recreation as Worship**

 

Recreation is an essential part of life that can be approached as an avenue of worship for Christians. This chapter explores the role of recreation and how it can be a means of expressing devotion and gratitude to God.

 

**1. The Role of Christian Recreation**

 

Recreation, in its various forms, holds significance in Christian life. It provides moments of relaxation, rejuvenation, and opportunities for fellowship, reflection, and enjoyment. Christian recreation should align with biblical principles and promote spiritual growth.

 

– Rest and Renewal: Recreation allows for rest and refreshment of the mind, body, and spirit, following God’s example of rest on the Sabbath (Genesis 2:2-3, Exodus 20:8-10). It provides a space for individuals to recharge and gain a new perspective.

 

– Fellowship and Community: Engaging in recreational activities promotes fellowship and community among believers. It creates opportunities to build relationships, encourage one another, and experience unity, as outlined in Hebrews 10:24-25.

 

**2. Recreation as an Avenue of Worship**

 

Recreation can serve as a unique avenue for expressing worship and gratitude to God.

 

– Appreciating God’s Creation: Engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, gardening, or enjoying nature helps individuals recognize and appreciate the beauty and wonders of God’s creation. Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”

 

– Cultivating Gratitude: Recreation cultivates an attitude of thankfulness towards God for the ability to participate and enjoy various activities. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds believers to “give thanks in all circumstances,” which includes moments of recreation and enjoyment.

 

– Practicing Stewardship: As stewards of God’s creation, Christians can approach recreational activities responsibly, considering their impact on the environment and others. It includes practicing good sportsmanship, ethical behavior, and demonstrating Christ-like attitudes in competitive scenarios.

 

– Reflecting on God’s Goodness: Recreation can provide moments of reflection and contemplation, allowing individuals to acknowledge the goodness and faithfulness of God. Philippians 4:8 encourages believers to dwell on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable – qualities that can be experienced and meditated upon during recreational pursuits.

 

By participating in recreational activities with an attitude of gratitude, stewardship, and reflection, Christians can transform these moments into acts of worship. Recreation becomes an opportunity to engage with God’s creation, foster relationships, express gratitude, and ultimately deepen one’s connection with God.

 

It is important to approach recreation with discernment, ensuring that it aligns with biblical values and fosters growth in the Christian walk. By embracing the role of recreation in worship, believers can experience the joy of engaging in activities that draw them closer to God and enrich their overall spiritual journey.

**Chapter 8: Church Assemblies**

 

The gathering of believers in churches holds immense significance within the Christian faith, as it provides a space for corporate worship, instruction, fellowship, and spiritual growth. This chapter explores the role of church assemblies as a pathway for approaching God in worship.

 

**1. The Role of the Church in New Testament Worship**

 

Throughout the New Testament, we find references to the importance of gathering together as believers and worshiping as a community.

 

– Hebrews 10:25 urges believers not to neglect meeting together, emphasizing the need for regular assembly and mutual encouragement.

 

– Acts 2:42 illustrates the early church’s commitment to devote themselves to fellowship, the breaking of bread, and prayers.

 

– Ephesians 5:19-20 encourages believers to address one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, giving thanks to God together.

 

**2. Church Gatherings: A Place for Collective Worship**

 

Church assemblies provide a unique opportunity for believers to engage in collective worship, following the examples set forth in the New Testament.

 

– Worship in Song: Corporate singing allows believers to unite their voices in praise and adoration, just as Colossians 3:16 emphasizes. The body of Christ comes together, lifting up their voices as a joyful offering to God.

 

– Preaching and Teaching: The proclamation of God’s Word during church assemblies allows for instruction, encouragement, and spiritual growth. Romans 10:14 highlights the significance of preaching, as it serves as a means through which people hear and respond to the truth.

 

– Sacraments: Church assemblies often facilitate the celebration of sacraments such as baptism and communion. These sacraments symbolize the new covenant, participation in Christ’s death and resurrection, and an opportunity for believers to remember and proclaim their faith.

 

– Mutual Edification: Church assemblies offer a space for believers to edify and encourage one another. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 urges believers to build one another up, bearing each other’s burdens and providing support in their spiritual journeys.

 

– Prayer and Intercession: Corporate prayer within the church allows believers to intercede for one another, the community, and global concerns. Acts 2:42 highlights the early Christians’ commitment to devoted prayer within their gatherings.

 

In church assemblies, worship extends beyond individual expressions to become a communal act of reverence and devotion. The collective praise, teaching, sacraments, mutual edification, and prayer strengthen the body of Christ and deepen the believers’ relationship with God.

 

As believers come together in church assemblies, they offer their worship, their voices, their prayers, and their service as a unified offering to God. It is through these collective gatherings that believers can experience a deeper connection with God and grow together in their faith.