In what ways can we ensure our worship aligns with biblical principles today? What Went Wrong in 2 Chronicles 13:9 “Have you not driven out the priests of the LORD, the sons of Aaron and the Levites, and made for yourselves priests like the peoples of other lands? Whoever comes to consecrate himself with a young bull and seven rams may become a priest of what are not gods.” (2 Chronicles 13:9) Jeroboam’s kingdom replaced God-appointed priests with self-appointed ones, copying pagan patterns. The result was counterfeit worship that God rejected. Their misstep warns us to measure every element of worship by Scripture rather than culture, convenience, or personal taste. Guard the Final Authority of Scripture • The Word sets the boundaries: “You must carefully observe everything I command you; do not add to it or subtract from it.” (Deuteronomy 12:32) • Every song, reading, prayer, and sermon should clearly echo revealed truth. • If a practice cannot be rooted in the Bible, we leave it out. Revelation 22:18-19 reminds us the canon is closed—our creativity must stay inside its fence. Honor God’s Standards for Leadership • In the Old Covenant, only sons of Aaron could serve as priests (Exodus 28:1). Jeroboam ignored that limit. • Today, God still sets qualifications for leaders (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). We safeguard worship by ordaining only those who meet these marks. • Recognize and support leaders who faithfully handle the Word (2 Timothy 2:15) instead of chasing charisma or popularity. Preserve the Distinctiveness of God’s People • Israel blurred the line between holy and common; believers are called “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). • Our gatherings should look different from secular concerts or TED talks. Simplicity, reverence, and joyful celebration uniquely witness to the living God. • Worldly methods may draw crowds, but only Spirit-empowered truth transforms hearts (Zechariah 4:6). Keep Christ at the Center • “All the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” are found in Him (Colossians 2:3). • Songs, sermons, ordinances, and testimonies must spotlight His person and finished work (Colossians 1:18). • Communion anchors us in the gospel, just as sacrifices once pointed Israel to coming redemption. Engage Heart, Mind, and Life in Obedience • Jesus said, “God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24) • Authentic worship joins sound doctrine (truth) with sincere affection (spirit). Knowledge without love is cold; emotion without truth is empty. • Worship continues after the benediction: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice… this is your spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1) Practical Checks for a Biblically Aligned Service – Song lyrics saturated with Scripture (Colossians 3:16) – Public reading of the Word (1 Timothy 4:13) – Expositional preaching that explains the text (Nehemiah 8:8) – Fervent corporate prayer shaped by biblical promises (Acts 2:42) – Orderly participation that builds up the body (1 Corinthians 14:40) – Regular celebration of baptism and the Lord’s Table (Matthew 28:19; 1 Corinthians 11:24-26) – Clear call to repentance and faith whenever the gospel is proclaimed (Acts 20:21) When Scripture determines our content, leaders, and methods, we avoid Jeroboam’s error and offer worship that delights the Lord and blesses His people. |
    |