What steps can we take to ensure our worship aligns with biblical principles? Setting the Scene: Solomon’s Assembly “Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel and all the heads of the tribes—the leaders of the families of the Israelites—before him in Jerusalem to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD from the City of David, that is, Zion.” (2 Chronicles 5:2) Step 1: Gather as One in Obedience • Solomon did not act alone; he gathered elders and tribal leaders. • Worship that honors God is communal, drawing the whole body together (Hebrews 10:25). • Unity begins with responding to God’s call, not personal agendas (Psalm 133:1). Step 2: Center Everything on God’s Presence • The ark represented God’s Word and throne (Exodus 25:22). • True worship keeps Scripture and the Lord’s presence at the center (John 4:24). • Evaluate songs, sermons, and activities: do they spotlight Him or us? Step 3: Prepare with Purity and Reverence • Priests and Levites sanctified themselves before moving the ark (2 Chronicles 5:11). • Holiness is still required: “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy…” (Romans 12:1). • Practical steps: confession, forgiveness, settling disputes (Matthew 5:23-24). Step 4: Follow the Order God Prescribed • Only Levites could carry the ark; Solomon honored God’s pattern (Numbers 4:15). • Worship should be “done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). • Structure—liturgy, planning, qualified leaders—guards against chaos and error. Step 5: Lift Sacrificial Praise and Thanksgiving • Countless sheep and oxen were offered (2 Chronicles 5:6). • We bring sacrifices of praise (Hebrews 13:15) and generous giving (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Worship that costs nothing often means little (2 Samuel 24:24). Step 6: Anticipate and Respond to God’s Glory • “The priests could not stand to minister because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God.” (2 Chronicles 5:14) • Expect God to manifest His presence; remain sensitive and willing to pause plans (Acts 4:31). • Awe and humility should characterize our response (Hebrews 12:28-29). Putting It All Together When we assemble in obedience, center on God’s presence, prepare our hearts, maintain biblical order, offer costly praise, and stay alert to His glory, our worship aligns with Scripture and invites the same heavenly affirmation that filled Solomon’s Temple. |
    |