What is worship?

“What is worship really about? Is there any substance to debates over style, tradition and liturgical form?”—Bill

Worship style is largely a function of three factors: historical development (styles evolve over time in consonance with social and cultural trends), doctrinal stance (theology and biblical interpretation give rise to certain worship practices) and ecclesiastical intent (church leaders have an inherent need to attract and keep adherents; thus, they shape worship forms to appeal to their audience. These forms often become entrenched traditions.)

The Bible portrays a variety of worship styles and forms. It clearly teaches, however, that worship is not ultimately about the use of certain instruments or style, nor is it dependent on tempo, repetition of verses or litanies, the relative age of a certain musical composition (classical or contemporary), or about the effective use of modern technology. It is not what someone does to you or gets you to do. It is not a pandering to what makes you feel good or conjures an emotional rush. (See Jn. 4:19-24.)

Worship is God-centered and God-devoted. When we come to worship, privately or corporately, we bring ourselves as a living sacrifice; i.e., our preferences, traditions, tastes in music, our desire to be comfortable—all are put on the line. In the act of worship, we say, “God, take me, break me, empty me, receive glory and honor from me—then, as You see fit, fill me, remake me, renew me, and send me, according to your purpose, into the world” (Rom. 12:1-2).

Worship involves emotions, certainly, but is so much more. Worship is an exercise of mind and will, both an act which seeks to comprehend the vastness of His love and in humble adoration to exalt Him and a state of being, continually devoted and willing to be transformed.

Music and Worship

“I hear lots of discussion about music in worship. Is there a preferred kind of worship music taught in the Bible?”—Charles

The simple answer is “No.” One of the hotly debated issues in American churches, this topic gives rise to more controversy than it deserves.

Worship portrayed in the Bible involved aspects of praise, meditation, and reflection on Scripture. Music included the psalmody and other forms such as hymns and doxologies. All sorts of instruments—wind, string, and percussion—were used. Early Christians probably followed the style of worship they knew best, that of the synagogue. Subsequent styles of worship music developed largely through the conventions of social trends, popular music, evolving traditions, and disparate theological convictions.

There are no sacred or inviolable styles of music dictated by Scripture. In the New Testament, Christians are enjoined to “sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (Eph. 5:19). This statement leaves room for a wide variety of styles!

What the Bible teaches about worship has more to do with our response to the living God (see Isaiah’s experience in Isaiah 6) and the focus of our mind, will, and emotions. God appears to be interested in the condition of our heart and the pursuit of truth (John 4:24), and genuine attitudes of graciousness, love, humility, and gratitude in our worship (Col. 3:12-17), than He is in a particular music form. Thoughtful worshipers will seek the proper balance between form (considering human nature and need) and function (bringing honor and glory to God.)