True and proper worship

Today's reading Hebrews 12:18-29

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Today’s blog

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” (Hebrews 12:28)

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“True worshippers”, said Jesus, “will worship the Father in spirit and in truth” (Jn.4:23-24). So two things are needed for our worship to be acceptable to God – it must be based on the right truth and offered with the right attitude. Hebrews has made clear the truth which is the basis for drawing near to God – we come by “the new and living way” which Jesus has made possible (10:19-22). That calls for a heart-response from our spirit, our inner being.

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That’s the focus of this reading. In worship we marvel at the wonder of God and of what Jesus has opened up for us – we have come to God’s city, a place of celebration; to God’s people, his universal church; to God himself, the judge of all people; and to God’s Son, our life-giving Saviour (22-24). This is God’s unshakeable and eternal kingdom, and this is what we have been brought into it.

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And that should bring us to our knees, at least metaphorically. From the depths of our being, we should overflow with thankfulness and praise. Amazed that through Jesus this is where we belong – this is our home – but never losing the deep sense of “reverence and awe” which it inspires. Jesus has brought us to glory so that “we may serve the living God” (9:14). The word serve is in fact often translated as worship e.g. “In view of God’s mercy, offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God – this is your true and proper worship” (Rom.12:1).

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(To dig a bit deeper into Hebrews 12:18-19 click here for some commentary notes.)