why we worship as a congregation

...and why this corporate worship is important, not only for us, but also for our children, other believers, the watching world, and to the Lord himself.

Here I am using "worship" not in its broadest sense (as all of life lived in service to and for the honor of God), but more narrowly, as what takes place when God's people gather to pray and to express praise in songs and hymns together.

a) We are called to exalt God together not only as Creator, but also as Savior and Deliverer. We have something to sing about! (Ex. 15:1-2; Gen. 4:26; Job 38:6-7; 1 Cor. 1:2; Rev. 5:12-13)

b) Gathering corporately for worship makes public and visible our worship of the one true God. (Ps. 51:14-15; 1 Chron. 15:16; 16:7-9; Ps. 30:11-12; 84:10; 122:1)

c) Congregational worship is one dimension of our evangelism, both for our children and for the watching world. (Ps. 18:49; 45:17; 57:9)

d) Corporate worship is an aspect of spiritual warfare, an act of defiance against evil powers. (2 Chron. 20:21-22; Acts 16:25-26)

e) Congregational worship is a expression of our unity as the people of God, and declares our allegiance to him. (Rom 15:5-6; Acts 1:14; 2:46)

f) Congregational worship is a way we encourage and edify one another. (Col. 3:16; Heb. 10:24-25)

g) God, our Father, is pleased with the worship of his children gathered together. (Heb. 13:15-16; Ezek. 20:41; John 12:3; Rev. 8:3-4)

h) Corporate worship prepares us for an eternal world of God-glorifying praise. (Rev. 5:9-10; Heb. 13:14-15)

You can stream or download the complete sermon here.

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