Man has always searched for something or someone to worship. History readily proves this point. Unfortunately, when man has been left to his own ways he has bowed down before images graven by human art and device (Acts 17:29; cf. Isaiah 44:9-20). Even when man refuses to worship the true God he will worship something of his own choosing (Romans 1:18-23; Colossians 2:23).

The God of heaven and earth has always expected man to approach Him in reverent worship. From the earliest days of humanity God has revealed the importance of acceptable worship. Abel's sacrifice was acceptable to God because it was offered in faith, while Cain's was not (Genesis 4:1-5; Hebrews 11:4).

Those who worship God must know Him (Acts 17:22-23). And, one must be a "true worshipper" by worshipping God "in spirit and truth" (John 4:23-24). Here is the New Testament pattern of acceptable worship before God. Use it to make sure you are offering acceptable worship to God.

 THE LORD'S SUPPER

• Every first day of the week - Acts 20:7; 2:42
• Communion with Christ - 1 Corinthians 10:16
• Memorial of His death for our sins - 1 Corinthians 11:23-29

 SINGING

• Speaking to one another in songs - Ephesians 5:19
• Making melody with your heart to the Lord - Ephesians 5:19
• Teaching and admonishing one another - Colossians 3:16

 PRAYING

• Continue steadfastly in prayer - Acts 2:42
• Pray for brethren, leaders, all men - 1 Thessalonians 5:25; 1 Timothy 2:1-2
• With one accord and holy hands - Acts 4:24-30; 1 Timothy 2:8

 GIVING

• On the first day of the week as we have prospered - 1 Corinthians 16:2
• Voluntary, with purpose and cheerfulness of heart - 2 Corinthians 9:7
• Having first given oneself to the Lord - 2 Corinthians 8:5

 TEACHING GOD'S WORD

• The word of God, not fables - 2 Timothy 4:2-4
• For the edification of the hearers - 1 Corinthians 14:26; 2 Timothy 2:2
• Preach the apostles' doctrine (gospel) - Acts 2:42; 1 Corinthians 2:1-5

 We must be careful not to change the worship God accepts by substituting the doctrines of men (Matthew 15:7-9; Colossians 2:23). Remember Cain.

Are you worshipping God by faith or by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7)? That is, are you worshipping Him as He has revealed in His word ("in truth")? Do you come before Him with a heart of reverence, adoration and humble submission ("in spirit")?

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