Worship-vs-Performance

Galatains Chapter Four

1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as* he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;

2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.

3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.

7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.

We are commanded to sing, dance, and generally exalt the name of our Lord. However, it’s easy to cross the line where worship becomes performance. Christ came to give us power to worship Him and increase His Church. To become his adopted sons and daughters to glorify His name. “Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim his salvation day after day”.– 1 Chronicles 16:23 That is worship. While He freed us from the law into sanctification, be were and are expected to become worshiping children. If we accept His plan of salvation, we become heirs of God. Today, too often, our praise in worship have become a stage play performance by self trained actors. His spirit has been embedded in the hearts of true Christians who praise Him. Apostate performers in religious ceremonies worship themselves and their cause...money.

Acknowledge: Worship from Performance.

The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia online defines worship thus: “Honor, reverence, homage, in thought, feeling, or act, paid to men, angels, or other "spiritual" beings, and figuratively to other entities, ideas, powers or qualities, but specifically and supremely to Deity.”

How can we demonstrate “acceptable worship with reverence and awe?” (Hebrews 12:28)

We are, as children of God, told to worship the Lord. If we do it as praise, love, thanks and in worship, even though it may have fleshly limitations, God graciously accepts what we offer.

What does Sunday morning worship need to reveal?

When musicians lead worship on stage, all attention is redirected upwards and inwards; to Jesus and to His Spirit in us. The words we sing, the way we dress, and our movements are thoughtful and devotional. Our entire being will reveal the Holy Spirit housed within us and interacting with our brothers and sisters. However, Father God is the center of attraction. Worship is to be designed and executed in a manner glorying Him.

What is a religious performance verses Christian worship?

We can define performance as a stage play enacted to convey the influence of pride and vanity. Performance directs attention to a singer’s acrobatics and range, the guitarist’s nimble fingers, trendy clothes, or a dazzling light show. Worldly attributes and misleading stage sets can lead the audiences into a false sense of communing with God. Reels, deals and jingle bells are idols. Placing emphasis on them rather than on praising God turns God’s house into a hall of entertainment.

Performers want applause and recognition for themselves. The presentation of “God’s word” becomes an effort to : 1. build a great political reputation, or, 2. Scalp deceived listeners of their precious finances. The song leader may chosen songs that highlight their skills or talents and might not support the pastor’s message or encourage congregational singing. God wants to hear His children rejoicing. Pew warming for whatever reason dishonors and displeases God. Know God, know peace. Amen 11-15-19 Bll ( Next Lesson: 6 ways we can worship in God’s will.