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The word ''worship'' means “to honor or show reverence to a divine being.” Broadly speaking, worship can refer to any act of humbling oneself to honor God, including sacrifices in the Old Testament times. However, it is normally used to describe an act of serving God in a certain form such as praying or praising. | The word ''worship'' means “to honor or show reverence to a divine being.” Broadly speaking, worship can refer to any act of humbling oneself to honor God, including sacrifices in the Old Testament times. However, it is normally used to describe an act of serving God in a certain form such as praying or praising. | ||
{{그림 |하나님의교회 세계복음선교협회 새예루살렘 판교성전 예배.jpg|너비= 400px |정렬=오른쪽섬네일 |타이틀=Worship service in the New Jerusalem Pangyo Temple of the World Mission Society Church of God}} | |||
==Sacrifices in the Old Testament== | ==Sacrifices in the Old Testament== | ||
<small>{{참고| | <small>{{참고|Sacrifices in the Old Testament|설명=}}</small> | ||
[[file:High Priest Offering Sacrifice of a Goat.jpg |thumb | 300px |Sacrifice offered by the high priest with an animal]] | [[file:High Priest Offering Sacrifice of a Goat.jpg |thumb | 300px |Sacrifice offered by the high priest with an animal]] | ||
In the Old Testament times, they worshiped God through sacrifices. The origin of sacrifice dates back to the time of [[Adam]], the progenitor of mankind. Adam’s sons, [[Cain and Abel]], each presented offering to God in his own way. God accepted Abel’s sacrifice offered with a sheep, but He rejected Cain’s sacrifice offered with the fruits of the soil. God wanted the sacrifice offered through the sacrifice of animals.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | In the Old Testament times, they worshiped God through sacrifices. The origin of sacrifice dates back to the time of [[Adam]], the progenitor of mankind. Adam’s sons, [[Cain and Abel]], each presented offering to God in his own way. God accepted Abel’s sacrifice offered with a sheep, but He rejected Cain’s sacrifice offered with the fruits of the soil. God wanted the sacrifice offered through the sacrifice of animals.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+4%3A1-5&version=NIV |title=Genesis 4:1–5 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> Since then, many forefathers of faith offered animal sacrifice, following Abel’s example.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+8%3A20-21&version=NIV |title=Genesis 8:20–21 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+12%3A7&version=NIV |title=Genesis 12:7 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Genesis+15%3A9&version=NIV |title= Genesis 15:9 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> The sacrifice of shedding animals’ blood was established as a codified law in the time of Moses. In the Old Testament times, the Israelites communed with God by offering a regular burnt offering every morning and afternoon, offering sacrifices every Sabbath day and at the seven feasts every year according to the Law. Additionally, they brought offerings suitable for their purpose and need and offered to God offered person.<br> | ||
===Types of Sacrifices in the Old Testament=== | ===Types of Sacrifices in the Old Testament=== | ||
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:It is largely divided into a sin offering, a guilt offering, and a fellowship offering. Both the sin offering and the guilt offering contain the meaning of redemption from sin. When they sinned against God, they usually offered a sin offering; and when they violated social laws between men, they usually offered a guilt offering. The fellowship offering was used to give thanks to God for the forgiveness of sins or to pray to God. The person who offered the sacrifice could eat the offering together with the priest. | :It is largely divided into a sin offering, a guilt offering, and a fellowship offering. Both the sin offering and the guilt offering contain the meaning of redemption from sin. When they sinned against God, they usually offered a sin offering; and when they violated social laws between men, they usually offered a guilt offering. The fellowship offering was used to give thanks to God for the forgiveness of sins or to pray to God. The person who offered the sacrifice could eat the offering together with the priest. | ||
* '''Classification by Offering''' | * '''Classification by Offering''' | ||
:It can be classified as a burnt offering, a grain offering, and a drink offering. The burnt offering was the most basic and common sacrifice, and it was accomplished by burning an animal. The grain offering was literally an offering presented with grain, and there were several ways such as burning flour, oil, and incense and roasting bread. The drink offering was a sacrifice done by pouring wine, etc. The burnt offering was offered along with the grain offering or the drink offering.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | :It can be classified as a burnt offering, a grain offering, and a drink offering. The burnt offering was the most basic and common sacrifice, and it was accomplished by burning an animal. The grain offering was literally an offering presented with grain, and there were several ways such as burning flour, oil, and incense and roasting bread. The drink offering was a sacrifice done by pouring wine, etc. The burnt offering was offered along with the grain offering or the drink offering.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus+29%3A41-42&version=NIV |title=Exodus 29:41–42 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers+15%3A5-6&version=NIV |title=Numbers 15:5–6 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> | ||
* '''Classification by Method''' | * '''Classification by Method''' | ||
:There was an offering by fire, a heave offering, and a wave offering. Burnt offerings and some grain offerings were offered by fire. A heave offering was an offering that was presented to God by holding it up; and a wave offering was an offering to present by waving it. On the Feast of Firstfruits, a sheaf of the first grain was waved and presented to God. | :There was an offering by fire, a heave offering, and a wave offering. Burnt offerings and some grain offerings were offered by fire. A heave offering was an offering that was presented to God by holding it up; and a wave offering was an offering to present by waving it. On the Feast of Firstfruits, a sheaf of the first grain was waved and presented to God. | ||
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==Worship in the New Testament== | ==Worship in the New Testament== | ||
===From Sacrifice to Worship=== | ===From Sacrifice to Worship=== | ||
The Old Testament law is a shadow of the good things that are coming in the New Testament.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | The Old Testament law is a shadow of the good things that are coming in the New Testament.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+10%3A1&version=NIV |title=Hebrews 10:1 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> According to the Law of Moses, the priests sacrificed animals. The Old Testament sacrifice, which granted the forgiveness of sins by sacrificing animals, is a prophecy showing that [[Christ]] will be sacrificed for the sins of mankind in the future. The blood of the sacrifices of the Old Testament symbolized Jesus’ precious blood shed on the cross.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+7%3A27&version=NIV |title=Hebrews 7:27 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> Since Jesus sacrificed Himself as an eternal sin offering, there was no longer a need for the Old Testament sacrifices.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+5%3A6-11&version=NIV |title=Romans 5:6–11 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+10%3A8-18&version=NIV |title=Hebrews 10:8–18 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> In the New Testament times, we receive the forgiveness of sins and all blessings through the sacrifice of Jesus by worshiping in spirit and in truth. | ||
[[file:Flemish School - Landscape with Christ and the Woman of Samaria - 872126 - National Trust.jpg |thumb | 300px |Jesus teaches the Samaritan woman to worship in spirit and truth.]] | [[file:Flemish School - Landscape with Christ and the Woman of Samaria - 872126 - National Trust.jpg |thumb | 300px |Jesus teaches the Samaritan woman to worship in spirit and truth.]] | ||
===Teachings of Jesus=== | ===Teachings of Jesus=== | ||
{{quote5 |내용= Jesus declared, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. . . . Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will '''worship the Father in spirit and truth''', for '''they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks'''.” |출처= [https://www. | {{quote5 |내용= Jesus declared, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. . . . Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will '''worship the Father in spirit and truth''', for '''they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks'''.” |출처= [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+4%3A21-23&version=NIV John 4:21–23]}} | ||
In the days of Jesus, animals were sacrificed every day in accordance with the Old Testament law in [[Jerusalem]]. However, Jesus said, “nor in Jerusalem,” implying that it is no longer necessary to sacrifice animals according to the Old Testament. In the New Testament times, people worship God in spirit and truth just as Jesus showed an example and the apostles kept, following Jesus’ example. | In the days of Jesus, animals were sacrificed every day in accordance with the Old Testament law in [[Jerusalem]]. However, Jesus said, “nor in Jerusalem,” implying that it is no longer necessary to sacrifice animals according to the Old Testament. In the New Testament times, people worship God in spirit and truth just as Jesus showed an example and the apostles kept, following Jesus’ example. | ||
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==Purpose of Worship== | ==Purpose of Worship== | ||
===To Receive the Forgiveness of Sins and Be Reconciled to God=== | ===To Receive the Forgiveness of Sins and Be Reconciled to God=== | ||
One of the greatest purposes of worship is the forgiveness of sins. Worship is the only ceremony for mankind, who has been separated from God because of their sins, to receive the forgiveness of sins and come to God.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | One of the greatest purposes of worship is the forgiveness of sins. Worship is the only ceremony for mankind, who has been separated from God because of their sins, to receive the forgiveness of sins and come to God.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+59%3A1-2&version=NIV |title=Isaiah 59:1–2 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus+4%3A13-20&version=NIV |title=Leviticus 4:13–20|publisher= |quote=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus+5%3A18-19&version=NIV |title=Leviticus 5:18–19|publisher= |quote=}}</ref> In the Old Testament times, the Israelites sacrificed animals to be forgiven of their sins, and they offered worship services with the blood of animals. In the New Testament times, however, Christ Himself, represented as the Lamb, sacrificed Himself for the forgiveness of sins of mankind.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+5%3A7&version=NIV|title=1 Corinthians 5:7|publisher=|quote=}}</ref> Through this, people are freed from the chains of sin, and the way is opened to be reconciled to God, from whom they had been separated because of their sins.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+2%3A12-19&version=NIV |title=Ephesians 2:12–19 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> They should offer worship to God in order to remember and commemorate the love of Christ who sacrificed Himself for mankind, sinners. | ||
=== To Confirm Their Relationship With God === | === To Confirm Their Relationship With God === | ||
God and His people meet and communicate spiritually through worship. God said that He made a covenant with His people through sacrifice, that is, worship.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | God and His people meet and communicate spiritually through worship. God said that He made a covenant with His people through sacrifice, that is, worship.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalms+50%3A4-5&version=NIV |title=Psalms 50:4–5 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> Worship is designed to strengthen the covenant people have made with God the Creator and serve Him with conviction. Through worship, people acknowledge their relationship with God as Parents and children, King and people, Creator and creatures. There are many gods and lords in the world.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+8%3A5&version=NIV |title=1 Corinthians 8:5 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> If they do not serve only God completely, they won’t be able to avoid destruction.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jeremiah+10%3A11&version=NIV |title=Jeremiah 10:11 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> Through worship, they serve the true God only, which enables them to become more connected to God with an inseparable cord of love.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus+26%3A12&version=NIV |title=Leviticus 26:12 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+4%3A23&version=NIV |title=John 4:23 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> | ||
===To Give Thanks and Glory to God=== | ===To Give Thanks and Glory to God=== | ||
God is the Creator of all things in the universe. He gave life and breath to human beings, saved them who had become sinners, and promised them the kingdom of heaven through the words of truth. God established the plan of redemption and fulfills His will while people don’t realize it. | God is the Creator of all things in the universe. He gave life and breath to human beings, saved them who had become sinners, and promised them the kingdom of heaven through the words of truth. God established the plan of redemption and fulfills His will while people don’t realize it. | ||
{{quote5 |내용= “'''You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power''', for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” |출처= [https://www. | {{quote5 |내용= “'''You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power''', for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.” |출처= [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+4%3A11&version=NIV Revelation 4:11]}} | ||
God’s people live in the grace of God, receiving His love and care every day. Worshiping God, who is worthy to receive glory, honor, and thanks, is a ritual that God’s people ought to perform. | God’s people live in the grace of God, receiving His love and care every day. Worshiping God, who is worthy to receive glory, honor, and thanks, is a ritual that God’s people ought to perform. | ||
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==Blessing of Worship== | ==Blessing of Worship== | ||
Worship service contains God’s will to bless those who serve God with the right of heavenly people and of God’s children, and also to make everything go well with them in the end. When God’s people give thanks and glory to God in spirit and truth, God grants them many blessings. The blessing of worship can be confirmed through the promises of God contained in the sacrifices of the Old Testament. | Worship service contains God’s will to bless those who serve God with the right of heavenly people and of God’s children, and also to make everything go well with them in the end. When God’s people give thanks and glory to God in spirit and truth, God grants them many blessings. The blessing of worship can be confirmed through the promises of God contained in the sacrifices of the Old Testament. | ||
* The Old Testament sacrifice was the only way for sinners, who had been separated from God because of their sins,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * The Old Testament sacrifice was the only way for sinners, who had been separated from God because of their sins,<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+59%3A1-2&version=NIV |title=Isaiah 59:1–2 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> to receive the forgiveness of sins and come to God.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus+4%3A13-20&version=NIV |title=Leviticus 4:13–20|publisher= |quote=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus+5%3A18-19&version=NIV |title=Leviticus 5:18–19|publisher= |quote=}}</ref> The '''forgiveness of sins''' is the purpose of worship for the saints who hope for salvation, but it is also a great blessing from God. | ||
* When they offer a sacrifice (worship), they can prosper both physically and spiritually. [[Solomon]] received wisdom from God by offering a thousand burnt offerings and became the wisest king of his time, and his kingdom greatly prospered under God’s blessing.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * When they offer a sacrifice (worship), they can prosper both physically and spiritually. [[Solomon]] received wisdom from God by offering a thousand burnt offerings and became the wisest king of his time, and his kingdom greatly prospered under God’s blessing.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+3%3A4-14&version=NIV |title=1 Kings 3:4–14 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> The house of Obed-Edom, where [[Ark of the Covenant|the ark of the covenant]] was kept, was greatly blessed, which shows that those who worship and serve God in the temple will be blessed.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Samuel+6%3A9-11&version=NIV |title=2 Samuel 6:9–11 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> | ||
* When people keep worship according to God’s commandments, they will receive the '''blessing of spiritual wisdom and understanding'''. The prophet Isaiah prophesied that people will lose wisdom and understanding if they obey the rules of men.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * When people keep worship according to God’s commandments, they will receive the '''blessing of spiritual wisdom and understanding'''. The prophet Isaiah prophesied that people will lose wisdom and understanding if they obey the rules of men.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+29%3A13-14&version=NIV |title=Isaiah 29:13–14 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> The rules of men refer to false worship such as [[Lord’s Day Worship (Sunday Worship)|Sunday worship]] and [[Christmas]] which are not found in the Bible. If they practice false worship, that is, rules of men that are not found in the Bible, they will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Only when they keep the worship services and the feasts commanded by God, can they receive wisdom and understanding through the blood of Christ, so that they can fully realize the mystery of God and the administration of redemption.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians+1%3A7-9&version=NIV |title=Ephesians 1:7–9 |publisher= |quote= }}</ref> | ||
*The '''meaning and blessing contained in the worship of the feasts''' is even more special. Since different blessings of God are promised in each and every one of the [[Feasts of God|seven feasts in three times]], people can all receive God’s blessings when they keep the feast worship. Feast worship is the passage through which they can receive numerous blessings such as the forgiveness of sins, eternal life, the blessing of being protected from disasters, the living hope for resurrection, the promise of ascension, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In the [[Sabbath]] worship, which is a weekly feast, is promised the blessing of being acknowledged as God’s people and entering the eternal rest. | *The '''meaning and blessing contained in the worship of the feasts''' is even more special. Since different blessings of God are promised in each and every one of the [[The Feasts of God|seven feasts in three times]], people can all receive God’s blessings when they keep the feast worship. Feast worship is the passage through which they can receive numerous blessings such as the forgiveness of sins, eternal life, the blessing of being protected from disasters, the living hope for resurrection, the promise of ascension, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In the [[Sabbath]] worship, which is a weekly feast, is promised the blessing of being acknowledged as God’s people and entering the eternal rest. | ||
==Day of Worship== | ==Day of Worship== | ||
God’s people keep the weekly feasts and the annual feasts according to the regulations.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | God’s people keep the weekly feasts and the annual feasts according to the regulations.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Leviticus+23%3A1-44&version=NIV |title=Leviticus 23:1–44 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> | ||
===Weekly Feasts=== | ===Weekly Feasts=== | ||
* '''Sabbath''': The Sabbath is a weekly feast, which commemorates the power of God the Creator. The Sabbath in the Bible is the seventh day, Saturday. | * '''Sabbath''': The Sabbath is a weekly feast, which commemorates the power of God the Creator. The Sabbath in the Bible is the seventh day, Saturday. | ||
* '''Third Day Worship''': The Third Day Worship, when they can receive the blessing of being sanctified, is held on the third day, Tuesday evening.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * '''Third Day Worship''': The Third Day Worship, when they can receive the blessing of being sanctified, is held on the third day, Tuesday evening.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Numbers+19%3A1-22&version=NIV |title=Numbers 19:1–22 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> | ||
===Annual Feasts=== | ===Annual Feasts=== | ||
As for the annual feasts, there is the [[Passover]], the [[Feast of Unleavened Bread]], the [[Day of Resurrection]] (Feast of Firstfruits), the [[Pentecost]] (Feast of Weeks), the [[Feast of Trumpets]], the [[Day of Atonement]], and the [[Feast of Tabernacles]]. Each of the seven feasts, which are observed in three times, has its own prophetic meaning and blessings. | As for the annual feasts, there is the [[Passover]], the [[The Feast of Unleavened Bread|Feast of Unleavened Bread]], the [[Day of Resurrection]] (Feast of Firstfruits), the [[Pentecost]] (Feast of Weeks), the [[Feast of Trumpets]], the [[Day of Atonement]], and the [[Feast of Tabernacles]]. Each of the seven feasts, which are observed in three times, has its own prophetic meaning and blessings. | ||
===Special Worship=== | ===Special Worship=== | ||
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==Forms of Worship== | ==Forms of Worship== | ||
Although there is no standardized worship service recorded in the Bible, the format of worship of the early Church is seen through the work of Jesus and the apostles. In the early Church, worship was held in various places: the homes of the saints, the outdoor spaces, [[Synagogue|synagogues]] where many Jews gathered, etc. | Although there is no standardized worship service recorded in the Bible, the format of worship of the early Church is seen through the work of Jesus and the apostles. In the early Church, worship was held in various places: the homes of the saints, the outdoor spaces, [[Synagogue|synagogues]] where many Jews gathered, etc. | ||
* '''Sermon''': Jesus set an example of giving a sermon in a synagogue on the Sabbath day.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * '''Sermon''': Jesus set an example of giving a sermon in a synagogue on the Sabbath day.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+1%3A21&version=NIV |title=Mark 1:21|publisher= |quote=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+4%3A16&version=NIV |title=Luke 4:16|publisher= |quote=}}</ref> The apostles too gave a sermon while keeping worship in a synagogue.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+13%3A13-44&version=NIV |title=Acts 13:13–44 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> | ||
* '''Prayer''': Worship was also a time of prayer. When the Bible recorded that Paul and Silas were looking for a place to keep the Sabbath worship, it described it as them “looking for a place of prayer.”<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * '''Prayer''': Worship was also a time of prayer. When the Bible recorded that Paul and Silas were looking for a place to keep the Sabbath worship, it described it as them “looking for a place of prayer.”<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+16%3A13&version=NIV |title=Acts 16:13|publisher= |quote=}}</ref> | ||
* '''Praise''': An act of praising is also accompanied during worship. Apostle Paul taught that the saints should praise, teach the word of God, etc. in an orderly way when they gather.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * '''Praise''': An act of praising is also accompanied during worship. Apostle Paul taught that the saints should praise, teach the word of God, etc. in an orderly way when they gather.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+14%3A26-40&version=NIV |title=1 Corinthians 14:26–40 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> | ||
* '''Feast Ceremony''': According to the meaning of the feast worship, special ceremonies are held on some feasts. The Bible records holding the Holy Supper on the Passover, and breaking bread on the Resurrection Day.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www. | * '''Feast Ceremony''': According to the meaning of the feast worship, special ceremonies are held on some feasts. The Bible records holding the Holy Supper on the Passover, and breaking bread on the Resurrection Day.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Corinthians+11%3A23-26&version=NIV |title=1 Corinthians 11:23–26 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Acts+20%3A7&version=NIV |title=Acts 20:7 |publisher= |quote=}}</ref> | ||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
*[[ | *[[Sacrifices in the Old Testament]] | ||
*[[Order of Priest]] | *[[Order of Priest]] | ||
*[[Commandments of God]] | *[[Commandments of God]] |
Latest revision as of 10:19, 1 August 2024
The word worship means “to honor or show reverence to a divine being.” Broadly speaking, worship can refer to any act of humbling oneself to honor God, including sacrifices in the Old Testament times. However, it is normally used to describe an act of serving God in a certain form such as praying or praising.
Sacrifices in the Old Testament
In the Old Testament times, they worshiped God through sacrifices. The origin of sacrifice dates back to the time of Adam, the progenitor of mankind. Adam’s sons, Cain and Abel, each presented offering to God in his own way. God accepted Abel’s sacrifice offered with a sheep, but He rejected Cain’s sacrifice offered with the fruits of the soil. God wanted the sacrifice offered through the sacrifice of animals.[1] Since then, many forefathers of faith offered animal sacrifice, following Abel’s example.[2][3][4] The sacrifice of shedding animals’ blood was established as a codified law in the time of Moses. In the Old Testament times, the Israelites communed with God by offering a regular burnt offering every morning and afternoon, offering sacrifices every Sabbath day and at the seven feasts every year according to the Law. Additionally, they brought offerings suitable for their purpose and need and offered to God offered person.
Types of Sacrifices in the Old Testament
The rituals of sacrifices carried out in the sanctuary in the Old Testament times were similar or duplicated in types, methods, and names, so it is not easy to distinguish them accurately. However, according to purpose, offering, and method, they can be roughly classified as follows.
- Classification by Purpose
- It is largely divided into a sin offering, a guilt offering, and a fellowship offering. Both the sin offering and the guilt offering contain the meaning of redemption from sin. When they sinned against God, they usually offered a sin offering; and when they violated social laws between men, they usually offered a guilt offering. The fellowship offering was used to give thanks to God for the forgiveness of sins or to pray to God. The person who offered the sacrifice could eat the offering together with the priest.
- Classification by Offering
- It can be classified as a burnt offering, a grain offering, and a drink offering. The burnt offering was the most basic and common sacrifice, and it was accomplished by burning an animal. The grain offering was literally an offering presented with grain, and there were several ways such as burning flour, oil, and incense and roasting bread. The drink offering was a sacrifice done by pouring wine, etc. The burnt offering was offered along with the grain offering or the drink offering.[5][6]
- Classification by Method
- There was an offering by fire, a heave offering, and a wave offering. Burnt offerings and some grain offerings were offered by fire. A heave offering was an offering that was presented to God by holding it up; and a wave offering was an offering to present by waving it. On the Feast of Firstfruits, a sheaf of the first grain was waved and presented to God.
Worship in the New Testament
From Sacrifice to Worship
The Old Testament law is a shadow of the good things that are coming in the New Testament.[7] According to the Law of Moses, the priests sacrificed animals. The Old Testament sacrifice, which granted the forgiveness of sins by sacrificing animals, is a prophecy showing that Christ will be sacrificed for the sins of mankind in the future. The blood of the sacrifices of the Old Testament symbolized Jesus’ precious blood shed on the cross.[8] Since Jesus sacrificed Himself as an eternal sin offering, there was no longer a need for the Old Testament sacrifices.[9][10] In the New Testament times, we receive the forgiveness of sins and all blessings through the sacrifice of Jesus by worshiping in spirit and in truth.
Teachings of Jesus
Jesus declared, “Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. . . . Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.”
In the days of Jesus, animals were sacrificed every day in accordance with the Old Testament law in Jerusalem. However, Jesus said, “nor in Jerusalem,” implying that it is no longer necessary to sacrifice animals according to the Old Testament. In the New Testament times, people worship God in spirit and truth just as Jesus showed an example and the apostles kept, following Jesus’ example.
Purpose of Worship
To Receive the Forgiveness of Sins and Be Reconciled to God
One of the greatest purposes of worship is the forgiveness of sins. Worship is the only ceremony for mankind, who has been separated from God because of their sins, to receive the forgiveness of sins and come to God.[11][12][13] In the Old Testament times, the Israelites sacrificed animals to be forgiven of their sins, and they offered worship services with the blood of animals. In the New Testament times, however, Christ Himself, represented as the Lamb, sacrificed Himself for the forgiveness of sins of mankind.[14] Through this, people are freed from the chains of sin, and the way is opened to be reconciled to God, from whom they had been separated because of their sins.[15] They should offer worship to God in order to remember and commemorate the love of Christ who sacrificed Himself for mankind, sinners.
To Confirm Their Relationship With God
God and His people meet and communicate spiritually through worship. God said that He made a covenant with His people through sacrifice, that is, worship.[16] Worship is designed to strengthen the covenant people have made with God the Creator and serve Him with conviction. Through worship, people acknowledge their relationship with God as Parents and children, King and people, Creator and creatures. There are many gods and lords in the world.[17] If they do not serve only God completely, they won’t be able to avoid destruction.[18] Through worship, they serve the true God only, which enables them to become more connected to God with an inseparable cord of love.[19][20]
To Give Thanks and Glory to God
God is the Creator of all things in the universe. He gave life and breath to human beings, saved them who had become sinners, and promised them the kingdom of heaven through the words of truth. God established the plan of redemption and fulfills His will while people don’t realize it.
“You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being.”
God’s people live in the grace of God, receiving His love and care every day. Worshiping God, who is worthy to receive glory, honor, and thanks, is a ritual that God’s people ought to perform.
Blessing of Worship
Worship service contains God’s will to bless those who serve God with the right of heavenly people and of God’s children, and also to make everything go well with them in the end. When God’s people give thanks and glory to God in spirit and truth, God grants them many blessings. The blessing of worship can be confirmed through the promises of God contained in the sacrifices of the Old Testament.
- The Old Testament sacrifice was the only way for sinners, who had been separated from God because of their sins,[21] to receive the forgiveness of sins and come to God.[22][23] The forgiveness of sins is the purpose of worship for the saints who hope for salvation, but it is also a great blessing from God.
- When they offer a sacrifice (worship), they can prosper both physically and spiritually. Solomon received wisdom from God by offering a thousand burnt offerings and became the wisest king of his time, and his kingdom greatly prospered under God’s blessing.[24] The house of Obed-Edom, where the ark of the covenant was kept, was greatly blessed, which shows that those who worship and serve God in the temple will be blessed.[25]
- When people keep worship according to God’s commandments, they will receive the blessing of spiritual wisdom and understanding. The prophet Isaiah prophesied that people will lose wisdom and understanding if they obey the rules of men.[26] The rules of men refer to false worship such as Sunday worship and Christmas which are not found in the Bible. If they practice false worship, that is, rules of men that are not found in the Bible, they will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Only when they keep the worship services and the feasts commanded by God, can they receive wisdom and understanding through the blood of Christ, so that they can fully realize the mystery of God and the administration of redemption.[27]
- The meaning and blessing contained in the worship of the feasts is even more special. Since different blessings of God are promised in each and every one of the seven feasts in three times, people can all receive God’s blessings when they keep the feast worship. Feast worship is the passage through which they can receive numerous blessings such as the forgiveness of sins, eternal life, the blessing of being protected from disasters, the living hope for resurrection, the promise of ascension, and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In the Sabbath worship, which is a weekly feast, is promised the blessing of being acknowledged as God’s people and entering the eternal rest.
Day of Worship
God’s people keep the weekly feasts and the annual feasts according to the regulations.[28]
Weekly Feasts
- Sabbath: The Sabbath is a weekly feast, which commemorates the power of God the Creator. The Sabbath in the Bible is the seventh day, Saturday.
- Third Day Worship: The Third Day Worship, when they can receive the blessing of being sanctified, is held on the third day, Tuesday evening.[29]
Annual Feasts
As for the annual feasts, there is the Passover, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Day of Resurrection (Feast of Firstfruits), the Pentecost (Feast of Weeks), the Feast of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, and the Feast of Tabernacles. Each of the seven feasts, which are observed in three times, has its own prophetic meaning and blessings.
Special Worship
A special worship service is held when there is a special purpose. Special worship services can be offered on special occasions.
Forms of Worship
Although there is no standardized worship service recorded in the Bible, the format of worship of the early Church is seen through the work of Jesus and the apostles. In the early Church, worship was held in various places: the homes of the saints, the outdoor spaces, synagogues where many Jews gathered, etc.
- Sermon: Jesus set an example of giving a sermon in a synagogue on the Sabbath day.[30][31] The apostles too gave a sermon while keeping worship in a synagogue.[32]
- Prayer: Worship was also a time of prayer. When the Bible recorded that Paul and Silas were looking for a place to keep the Sabbath worship, it described it as them “looking for a place of prayer.”[33]
- Praise: An act of praising is also accompanied during worship. Apostle Paul taught that the saints should praise, teach the word of God, etc. in an orderly way when they gather.[34]
- Feast Ceremony: According to the meaning of the feast worship, special ceremonies are held on some feasts. The Bible records holding the Holy Supper on the Passover, and breaking bread on the Resurrection Day.[35][36]
See also
References
- ↑ "Genesis 4:1–5".
- ↑ "Genesis 8:20–21".
- ↑ "Genesis 12:7".
- ↑ "Genesis 15:9".
- ↑ "Exodus 29:41–42".
- ↑ "Numbers 15:5–6".
- ↑ "Hebrews 10:1".
- ↑ "Hebrews 7:27".
- ↑ "Romans 5:6–11".
- ↑ "Hebrews 10:8–18".
- ↑ "Isaiah 59:1–2".
- ↑ "Leviticus 4:13–20".
- ↑ "Leviticus 5:18–19".
- ↑ "1 Corinthians 5:7".
- ↑ "Ephesians 2:12–19".
- ↑ "Psalms 50:4–5".
- ↑ "1 Corinthians 8:5".
- ↑ "Jeremiah 10:11".
- ↑ "Leviticus 26:12".
- ↑ "John 4:23".
- ↑ "Isaiah 59:1–2".
- ↑ "Leviticus 4:13–20".
- ↑ "Leviticus 5:18–19".
- ↑ "1 Kings 3:4–14".
- ↑ "2 Samuel 6:9–11".
- ↑ "Isaiah 29:13–14".
- ↑ "Ephesians 1:7–9".
- ↑ "Leviticus 23:1–44".
- ↑ "Numbers 19:1–22".
- ↑ "Mark 1:21".
- ↑ "Luke 4:16".
- ↑ "Acts 13:13–44".
- ↑ "Acts 16:13".
- ↑ "1 Corinthians 14:26–40".
- ↑ "1 Corinthians 11:23–26".
- ↑ "Acts 20:7".