Drawing Near to God An Awesome Experience Especially for Priests of God We are priests (1 Peter 2:9) Hebrews 13:15

Hebrews 13:15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name

God’s Concerns in the O.T. Cain and Abel (Genesis 4:1-5) Nadab and Abihu (Leviticus 10:1-3) Sons of Eli (1 Samuel 2:12-17, 22; 3:13-14) Malachi 1-3 --The Teaching of the priests (2:7-9) --Conduct of the priests (2:13-15; 3:5) --Their attitude shown in the quality of their sacrifices (1:6-14) Note vs. 11,14

What God Expects of Us “Now all these things happened to them as examples and were written for our admonition…” (1 Cor. 10:11) God expects from us: -- Godly lives (Romans 12:1-2) -- The sacrifice authorized (Heb. 13:15) -- The best we can give (Rev.2:4; 3:15-16) -- As Leaders of Worship -- As Worshipers

Responsibility of Song Leader Understand his responsibilities. Select Songs that Christ would choose. Arrange them to fit with the order of worship. Carefully practice songs to be sure you know melody, pitch and best tempo. Lead with confidence. Lead for God’s glory – not your own!

Responsibility of Followers Prepare for Worship. Cooperate with the leader—especially with a less capable leader. (As a mother does when her son is leading) Think the words so as to praise the Lord, give thanks, to be taught and motivated. Sing your best as an offering to the Lord. Keep God as the focus of your singing Avoid a critical attitude. (1 Cor. 11:28)

How Near do we want to draw to God? 20 “I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; 21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us John 17:20-21

“O To Be Like Thee” Romans 8:28-30 Hymn # 97 Stanza 1

How We Become Like Jesus: Adoration Information and Meditation Imitation Incarnation

Adoration # 434 All Stanzas # 41 All Stanzas – Then # 563

Information and Meditation # 406 Stanzas 1,2,3 # 139 All Stanzas

Conscious Imitation # 97 Stanzas 2,3 # 552 Stanzas 1,2,3 – Then Cho.

Incarnation # 445 Stanzas 1,2 Then # 454 Stanza 1 # 441 All Stanzas