Topical Encyclopedia Worship, as depicted in the Bible, is a profound act of reverence and adoration directed towards God, characterized by the acknowledgment of His supreme holiness and majesty. Central to the concept of worship is the presence of God, which is both the object and the environment of true worship. The Bible provides numerous instances and teachings that illustrate how God's presence is integral to worship.Old Testament Foundations In the Old Testament, the presence of God is often associated with specific locations and events. The Tabernacle and later the Temple in Jerusalem were central places where God's presence dwelt among His people. Exodus 25:8 states, "And they are to make a sanctuary for Me, so that I may dwell among them." This sanctuary was a tangible representation of God's presence, where the Israelites could come to worship. The Ark of the Covenant, housed within the Most Holy Place, symbolized God's throne on earth. In 1 Kings 8:10-11 , during the dedication of Solomon's Temple, "the cloud filled the house of the LORD, so that the priests could not stand there to minister because of the cloud; for the glory of the LORD filled the house of the LORD." This manifestation of God's glory was a powerful indication of His presence, eliciting worship from His people. The Psalms and Worship The Psalms frequently emphasize the presence of God in worship. Psalm 95:2 invites believers to "come into His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise." The psalmist recognizes that entering God's presence is an essential aspect of worship, where thanksgiving and praise are offered. Psalm 22:3 declares, "Yet You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel." This verse suggests that God inhabits the praises of His people, indicating that worship creates an environment where God's presence is uniquely experienced. New Testament Revelation In the New Testament, the presence of God in worship is further revealed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus, as Immanuel, meaning "God with us" (Matthew 1:23), embodies the presence of God among humanity. His life, death, and resurrection opened a new way for believers to access God's presence. John 4:23-24 records Jesus' teaching on worship: "But a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such as these to worship Him. God is Spirit, and His worshipers must worship Him in spirit and in truth." This passage highlights that worship is not confined to a specific location but is a spiritual act that transcends physical boundaries, facilitated by the Holy Spirit. The Role of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in bringing believers into the presence of God during worship. In Ephesians 2:18 , Paul writes, "For through Him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit." The Spirit enables believers to approach God, making His presence real and accessible in worship. The early church experienced God's presence powerfully during worship gatherings. Acts 2:1-4 describes the day of Pentecost when "they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like a mighty rushing wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting." This event marked the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, signifying God's presence among His people and empowering them for worship and witness. Eschatological Worship The Bible also points to a future, eschatological dimension of worship in God's presence. Revelation 21:3 proclaims, "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This vision of the new heaven and new earth reveals the ultimate fulfillment of God's presence with His people, where worship will be perfected in His eternal kingdom. Throughout Scripture, worship is intricately linked with the presence of God. From the Tabernacle and Temple to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the promise of eternal communion with God, worship is both a response to and an experience of God's holy presence. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 19:30You shall keep my sabbaths, and reverence my sanctuary: I am the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 77:13 Psalm 84:4 Isaiah 56:7 Hebrews 10:25 Library Reverence in Worship. Prayer, Praise and Thanksgiving Pray to Thy Father which is in Secret or Alone with God. In God's Name I Beseech You Let Prayer Nourish Your Soul as Your ... The Being of God Eighth Day. Holiness and Indwelling. Prayer --Fills Man's Poverty with God's Riches Book of Hymns for Public and Private Devotion Concerning Worship. Hymns for Christian Devotion Resources What does the Bible say about worship? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the difference between praise and worship? | GotQuestions.org How much of a role should media have in worship services? | GotQuestions.org Worship: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Worship of the Philippian Jailer Worship of the Wicked Rejected Worship: "Iniquity of the Holy Things" Worship: David's Ordinances For Worship: Jesus Prays all Night Long Worship: On Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal Worship: Public, in the Temple Worship: The Whole Nation Required to Assemble For, Including Men, Women, Children, Servants Worship: The Word of God Read in Public Assemblies Worship: To be Rendered Only to God Worship: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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