Introduction
The twenty-second article in the Baptist Confession of Faith is called “Religious Worship.” It strongly states that God prescribes in Scripture the way his people are allowed to worship him and that worship “according to the imaginations and devices of men” is unacceptable. The sermon text demonstrates this truth from the second of the Ten Commandments.
The elements of the service were selected to emphasize the connection between the character of God and the nature of our worship. True worship is a work of sober joy.
PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
Prelude
Call to Worship: Psalm 100
Invocation
PROCLAMATION
Hymn Psalm 100
Note: Our opening hymn paraphrases Psalm 100 and calls us to worship in the presence of the Lord, employing songs of joy and gladness. In worship, we acknowledge that he is the Creator and we are his people. To him belongs all thanksgiving and praise for his is good and his steadfast love will never end.
Worship through Giving
Hymn 23 Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise
Note: Multiple attributes (character qualities) of God are woven into each line of the first two verses of this wonder-filled hymn: immortal, Spirit, wise, transcendent, eternal, omnipotent, sovereign, etc. The final hymn adds to these the fact that God is the origin of glory and truth (light). So great is he that the angels express their adoration while humbly shielding their eyes. We to offer praise but depend on his aid to understand the grandeur of the Great God we worship.
Scripture Reading Hebrews 12:18-28
Note: Throughout the book of Hebrews, the author contrasted the new age of the gospel of Christ with the Old Testament. He argued that Christ is better than Moses, better than the priesthood, and better than the sacrifices. In the last part of chapter 11, he brings this contrast to a climax and concludes that we should be grateful, offering to God acceptable worship with reverence and awe.
Pastoral Prayer
Hymn 3 Holy, Holy, Holy
Note: Isaiah saw a vision of angelic beings offering humble praise to God upon his throne. They declared, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.” Acceptable worship of the Triune God offers praise that is consistent with his holy character.
Message: Does God Really Care How You Worship
Text: Exodus 20:1-6
Pastor Steven Thomas
RESPONSE
Hymn 46 O Worship the King
Note: We respond to the message with a hymn that encourages one another to engage in worship appropriate for God, our Great King. The hymn is based on Psalm 104. The conclusion of the Psalm includes this declaration:
I will sing to the LORD as long as I live;
I will sing praise to my God while I have being.
May my meditation be pleasing to him,
for I rejoice in the LORD.
Prayer Response: Bill Cunnien
Benediction: John Miles