Universal Worship

Universal worship refers to the concept that all creation is called to worship the one true God, acknowledging His sovereignty, majesty, and holiness. This theme is prevalent throughout the Bible, emphasizing that worship is not limited to a specific group of people but is a universal calling for all of humanity and creation.

The Psalms frequently highlight the call to universal worship. Psalm 66:4 declares, "All the earth bows down to You; they sing praise to You; they sing the praises of Your name." This verse underscores the idea that worship is a global and all-encompassing act, involving every nation and people.

In the New Testament, the call to universal worship is further emphasized through the Great Commission. Jesus instructs His disciples in Matthew 28:19 , "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." This command extends the call to worship to all nations, inviting them to become followers of Christ and participants in the worship of God.

The book of Revelation provides a vivid picture of universal worship in the heavenly realm. Revelation 7:9-10 describes a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne and before the Lamb, crying out, "Salvation to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" This scene illustrates the ultimate fulfillment of universal worship, where all of creation acknowledges God's glory and salvation.

Dominion

Dominion, in a biblical context, refers to the authority and responsibility given by God to humanity to rule over and steward the earth. This concept is rooted in the creation narrative, where God grants humans dominion over the earth and its creatures.

Genesis 1:26-28 states, "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.' So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth.'"

This passage establishes the foundational principle of dominion, highlighting humanity's unique role as God's representatives on earth. Dominion is not merely about control or exploitation but involves stewardship, care, and responsibility for God's creation.

The concept of dominion is further developed in the teachings of Jesus, who exemplifies servant leadership and stewardship. In Matthew 20:25-28 , Jesus teaches, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."

This teaching redefines dominion as a call to serve and care for others, reflecting God's love and justice. The ultimate expression of dominion is found in Christ's sacrificial love and His establishment of God's kingdom on earth.

In the eschatological vision of Revelation, dominion is restored and perfected. Revelation 22:5 proclaims, "There will be no more night in the city, and they will have no need for the light of a lamp or of the sun, for the Lord God will shine on them. And they will reign forever and ever." This verse points to the eternal reign of God's people, who will exercise dominion in perfect harmony with God's will, reflecting His glory and righteousness.