Torch, Spring 1992

I" I L I , Where is the simplicity of true worship? The Magi came into the house, saw Christ, fell down, and worshiped Him (Matthew 2:11). Their focus was on Him, and only on Him. When the Greeks came to the feast at Jerusalem, they inquired of Philip: "Sir, we would see Jesus" (John 12:21). True worship involves loving, praising, exalting and adoring our God and delighting in Him. It can take place in a cathedral or a kitchen. It can occur when you are with others or alone. But it must be a genuine response of a grateful heart according to the truth of the Word of God. We should not sing or pray thinking that those activities are worship. Rather, we should sing and pray because we are worshiping. No order of worship is set forth in the Epistles. In fact, the term "worship" occurs only three times in those books (1 Corinthians 14:25, Hebrews 1:6 and 11:21). Those passages refer to the worship of the patriarch Jacob, the angels, and the newly converted. The book of Revelation, however, contains numerous references to the worship of believers and angels in the heavenly presence of God. Two chapters (Revelation 4 and 5) especially set forth experiences from which we can draw principles for true earthly worship of our Creator and Redeemer. 1. In true worship, we submit to the sovereign authority of God the Father. When the apostle John was caught up into the third heaven, he first saw the throne of God the Father (Revelation 4:2). The divine throne was encircled by twenty-four smaller thrones, occupied by the elders, and by four living creatures. God is central because He is God. He is the ruler of the universe. He is the ruler of angels, men, animals, and plants. David declared: "The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all" (Psalm 103:19). In true worship, we are aware that God is in control. We recognize that we must submit willingly and joyfully to His