The Theology of Worship

The theology of Worship as defined by the renowned theologian Donald K. McKim states, “The theological understandings of worship as the praise and service of God. Worship is central to the Christian life and involves a total response of devotion from believers. It is guided by Scripture and is enabled by the work of the triune God, who alone is to be glorified.”

In other words worship is the most important aspect of our community. We come together corporately to lift up our hearts and praise the living God. We are present in order to glorify God and not our personal spiritual lives. The feelings of goodness and satisfaction we receive from worship are the byproducts of a God centered offering, originating from our self-empting spirits.

All too often we believe that worship is about the “feelings” we are to take away from the service. That concept could not be further from the truth. In worship it is important to remember that we offer ourselves to God, and it is God who is glorified, not our personal piety or experience. Thus worship is our gift to God, and we should give to God our very best.

Christian worship is over 2000 years old and dates back to early Church practices and rites. Our theology of worship is absolutely essential and defines us as Christian people. It is a place to open ourselves up, and become living sacrifices to God. It is in Worship that the Risen Christ is amongst us, and we become vulnerable to the movement and actions of the Holy Spirit.