True Worshippers Worship God in Spirit and in Truth

A Word of Truth #072  

Worship of the true God may be as festive as a group of like-minded believers joining together in worship and praise on an Easter morning; and it may be as tranquil as an individual believer silently bowing his head, asking for forgiveness, thanking God for blessings, and quietly drifting to sleep in peace.

Worship may be a presentation of God’s Word before hundreds of people; and it may be as intimate as a small circle of friends gathered around the Word of God for personal study. Worship may be vocalized, and it may be the silent worship of the heart.

Among these differences, there is something that is required for worship to be true. Jesus said: “God is Spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24).

Worship that is only external and not from the heart is not worship. Worship that proclaims and adores any God other than the Triune God is not worship. Worship that is not centered on the truth of God’s Word—the Gospel of Jesus Christ—is not worship.

“O come, let us worship the LORD!” (cf. Psalm 95)

Jesus is Our Good Shepherd!

A Word of Truth #073  

Perhaps the most beloved verse in all of Scripture is Psalm 23:1, “The LORD is my Shepherd, I shall not want.” It speaks of our God’s loving commitment to His believing children. Jesus identifies Himself with the “LORD” when He says, “I am the Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd gives His life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

Yet, what good is a dead shepherd? A shepherd who gives up his life can no longer take care of his sheep! Jesus, however, was speaking of giving up His life on the cross. Jesus gave up His life, the Bible says, to redeem the world by paying the penalty for all sin. He then took His life back again, when He arose from the dead. He continues to watch over, guide, and bless His believing followers. He thereby remains the Good Shepherd of His sheep!