Definition and Importance

Self-examination of worship refers to the introspective practice of evaluating one's heart, motives, and actions in the context of worshiping God. This practice is rooted in the biblical call for believers to worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24) and to ensure that their worship is genuine, sincere, and pleasing to God. It involves a careful assessment of one's spiritual state, attitudes, and the authenticity of one's worship practices.

Biblical Basis

The concept of self-examination is deeply embedded in Scripture. In 2 Corinthians 13:5, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers to "examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." While this verse primarily addresses the broader context of faith, it underscores the importance of introspection in the Christian life, which extends to worship.

In the Old Testament, the prophet Isaiah highlights the futility of worship that is merely external and not accompanied by a sincere heart. Isaiah 29:13 states, "These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me." This passage serves as a warning against superficial worship and calls for a heart aligned with God's will.

Elements of Self-Examination in Worship

1. Heart Attitude: Worship must stem from a heart that is fully devoted to God. Psalm 51:17 declares, "The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise." Believers are encouraged to approach worship with humility and repentance, acknowledging their need for God's grace.

2. Motives: The motives behind worship should be pure and centered on glorifying God rather than seeking personal gain or recognition. In Matthew 6:1 , Jesus warns, "Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Worship should be an act of devotion, not a display for others.

3. Alignment with Scripture: True worship aligns with biblical teachings and principles. Colossians 3:16 encourages believers to "let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." Worship should be informed and guided by Scripture.

4. Participation in the Body of Christ: Worship is both a personal and communal act. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Self-examination includes evaluating one's role and engagement within the church community.

Practical Steps for Self-Examination

· Prayerful Reflection: Begin with prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of insincerity or distraction in your worship.
· Scripture Study: Regularly engage with the Bible to ensure that your worship practices align with God's Word.
· Confession and Repentance: Confess any known sins and seek God's forgiveness, striving for a pure heart.
· Seek Accountability: Engage with fellow believers who can provide encouragement and accountability in your worship journey.
· Evaluate Worship Practices: Consider whether your worship is routine or heartfelt, and make necessary adjustments to focus on God's glory.

Conclusion

Self-examination of worship is a vital discipline for believers who desire to honor God with their whole being. By regularly assessing their hearts, motives, and practices, Christians can ensure that their worship is genuine and pleasing to the Lord.