Religious people these days are clamoring for more exciting and appealing ways to conduct worship services. Our opposition to such does not excuse going to the other side of the spectrum, insisting that our services be appropriately dull and boring. Often, lost in the shuffle, is the fact that we do not determine what is acceptable worship. We merely recognize what God has authorized in His inspired word. Sadly, in an effort to gain larger crowds, many have turned their backs on God’s word in preference to human wisdom. While there are scriptural ways to improve and enhance the effectiveness of worship, the “get-them-in-at-all-costs” philosophy is filled with pitfalls that undermine the mission of the church for which Jesus died (Lk. 19:10; Acts 20:28). Not all that men do in the name of worship is acceptable in the sight of God. Don’t forget the example of Nadab and Abihu who lost their lives because they chose to incorporate unauthorized fire into their worship (Lev. 10:1-3 cf. Ex. 30:34-38).
In a context dealing specifically with worship, Paul writes, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name ([by the authority] of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks though Him to God the Father” (Col. 3:16-17). Whatever we do in worship must be backed by Christ’s authority.
Respecting the authority of Jesus means that we will not add to or take away from His regulations governing worship. Burning incense along with prayer is an addition to God’s instructions regarding worship just as is playing instruments along with singing. Jesus said, “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (Jn. 4:24). God has regulated worship in accordance with His truth (Jn. 17:17). By studying His word, we can recognize acceptable worship. Everything else offered to God in worship is rejected simply because it has not been authorized by Jesus Christ.
God knows how He wants to be worshiped. He has given instructions as to how we must worship Him. Any changes in worship procedure must fall within the bounds of His inspired word. Otherwise, our worship experience becomes little more than a sounding board for our own selfish preferences. May God help us as we seek to worship and serve Him alone (Mt. 4:10).
–Glen Elliott–