What does "glory to God in the highest" teach about worship priorities? Setting the Scene “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests!” (Luke 2:14) First Priority: God-Centered Praise • The angels’ opening word is “Glory,” not “need,” “problem,” or “request.” • Their worship rises straight to “God in the highest,” directing every ounce of honor upward. • Scripture repeatedly frames worship this way: – Psalm 29:2—“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of His holiness.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31—“Whatever you do…do it all to the glory of God.” • Priority lesson: worship begins with exalting God, not satisfying ourselves. Heaven Sets the Pattern for Earth • Angels, who see God’s greatness without veil, model perfect priorities. • Revelation 4:11 echoes their song: “Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory…” • When the church gathers, it joins the unending heavenly chorus; therefore our order, songs, prayers, and preaching must echo that angelic focus. Peace Flows from Proper Worship • The second clause—“and on earth peace”—links peace to glory given. • True peace is never detached from God’s honor; it descends when hearts bow to Him. • Isaiah 26:3 affirms, “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast of mind, because he trusts in You.” Rejecting Man-Centered Worship • If glory is diverted elsewhere, peace evaporates (Isaiah 42:8). • Common temptations: – Entertaining the crowd rather than exalting the Lord. – Highlighting personalities, technologies, or traditions above Scripture. – Treating worship as therapy instead of tribute. • Exodus 20:3—“You shall have no other gods before Me.” Practical Applications for Gathered Worship • Plan each service by asking, “Does this direct attention to God?” • Begin corporate prayer and song with adoration before petitions. • Shape sermons to reveal God’s character; then apply to life. • Use testimonies that spotlight God’s work, not human achievement. Practical Applications for Personal Worship • Start daily devotions with praise (Psalm 103:1). • Filter entertainment and conversations through 1 Corinthians 10:31. • When anxiety strikes, redirect focus to God’s greatness; peace follows (Philippians 4:6-7). • Keep a journal of answered prayers and Scriptures that reveal His glory. Takeaway “Glory to God in the highest” resets worship priorities: exalt God first, follow heaven’s pattern, and trust Him to supply the peace our hearts and world crave. |
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