Pleasing God in Worship

Introduction:

            Many churches today have a variety of styles in worship services. Why all the different services? For many, worship has become dull & boring.  Others try to promote using the idea of promoting attendance. Some seek to “improve” things. Are the different styles we see in worship today a “fad?”

I.  Worship starts in the heart!

A.     Burnt out worship is a problem of many people.

B.     Malachi 1 – Israel’s heart was not in their worship. Poor attitude.

1.    1:6-8 – the privilege of the Father??  To be worshipped!!!

2.    1:9-10 - would have been better if they would have just stopped worshipping Him - it would have been just as unpleasing!

3.     1:12-13 - God shouldn’t have to take the leftovers.  He deserves more than this!  He is worthy of all honor & praise & reverence!!!

C.     Where does worship start?  It is the outward things inside the bldg?  Is it some electricity in the air?  Worship starts in the heart!!

1.   Psa. 122:1; 95:1-7 - Where do you think David’s heart was?

II We please God in worship through our thankfulness. For example:

A.    We should be thankful for our place.

1.    How thankful are we for the blessing of this place and where we live!

B.    Peace - 1 Tim. 2:1-4 – why desire peace?

1.     Times of peace - give the greatest opportunity to spread the gospel

2.     We need to be thankful for the present peace we enjoy!

C.    Presence.

1.    Rev. 1:4-8 - when we worship God, we are in the presence of Jesus Christ.

2.    Matthew 18:20…

D.    People & Periods of Worship.

1.    We should be thankful to be around people in whom we have so much in common!

2.    We should be thankful to have the privilege of serving Him in periods of worship.

3.    The day we quit being thankful and become selfish is the day we quit worshipping God???

Conclusion

A.    Proper worship is done according to the Word of God!

1.    As Christians we must have a respect for the authority of the Scriptures!

2.    Worship is not some feeling in the air!

3.    Rather it is done with a proper attitude of reverence in the heart!

4.    This was the way worship was done in the first century & it is the way it should be done today!

B.    God is due all glory honor and praise.

C.    I N V I T A T I O N