The Christian and Public Worship (1) When We Assemble
Excellence in Worship Excellence – the quality of being outstanding. Striving for a standard that is extraordinary. Seeking to be your best Doing what you do well
Excellence in Worship Is God pleased when we do “just enough” to get by? God demands our best Sacrifices – Genesis 4:3-4 Israel – “without blemish” Exodus 34:19-20, 12:4, Leviticus 27:26, etc.
Excellence in Worship God demands our best Solomon building the temple – 2 Chronicles 2:4-6 2 Cornicles 6:17-21 While God is not interested in ornate buildings, He does expect excellence from us. Acts 17:24-25 Psalm 51:16-17
Excellence in Worship God demands our best John 4:24, worship in spirit and truth Matthew 6:33, seek Him first Matthew 22:37, love Him with your all Romans 12:1, a living sacrifice Colossians 3:23, heartily 1 Corinthians 10:31, all to His glory 1 Peter 4:10-11, good stewards
Mediocrity is unacceptable Malachi 1:6-8, 12-14 Excellence in Worship Mediocrity is unacceptable Malachi 1:6-8, 12-14 Revelation 3:16-17, lukewarm Laodicea Matthew 25:26-29, the one talent servant
Giving our Best in Worship Appearance – the location where we assemble – (well maintained) - the resources we produce - our personal appearance! We are not perfect and God knows that, but He does want our best! Attitude – serious, not casual
Giving our Best in Worship Why are we here? To glorify God – Hebrews 12:28, Romans 15:5-6 To build each other up – Hebrews 10:24-25 To reach the lost – 1 Corinthians 14:14-25, etc.
Giving our Best in Worship Leaders Do we prepare to lead the congregation in worship? Leaders set the tone for receptiveness of the audience Example: Why do we have a duty roster? If you are involved, do you plan?
Giving our Best in Worship How much effort are you exerting? 1 Corinthians 11:28, examine yourself Are we genuinely giving God our best in time, resources, attitude? Or is it just enough to get by? Hebrews 6:11-12, not sluggish
How serious are you about worshipping God?