Glory to God
True worship is not about making noise, but about being united in our praises to God under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true worship arises from the anointing of the Holy Spirit, uniting believers in their praises to God, regardless of their individual styles of worship. He notes that while worship can be loud and exuberant, it is not solely defined by noise; rather, it is a heartfelt expression of reverence. Tozer challenges those who feel uncomfortable with vocal expressions of worship, suggesting they may lack the spiritual enlightenment that comes from the Holy Spirit. He expresses his desire to be part of a community that genuinely worships God, highlighting the joy and blessings that accompany such worship.
Text
When the Holy Spirit comes among us with His anointing, we become a worshiping people! Now, that does not mean that all Christians everywhere must all worship alike - but that under the guidance of the Holy Spirit believers everywhere are united in their praises to God. When Jesus came into Jerusalem presenting Himself as Messiah there was a great multitude and there was a great noise. Very often our worship is audible, but I do not believe it is necessarily true that we are worshiping God when we are making a lot of racket. But I think there is a word for those who are cultured, quiet, self-possessed, poised and sophisticated.
If they are embarrassed in church when some happy Christian says, "Amen!" they may actually be in need of some spiritual enlightenment.
If some believer's "Glory to God!" really bothers you, it may be because you do not know the kind of spiritual blessing and delight the Holy Spirit is waiting to provide among God's worshiping saints. I can only speak for myself, but I want to be among those who worship!
Sermon Outline
- The Holy Spirit's Anointing Unites Worship
- Audible Worship vs. True Worship
- Seeking Spiritual Enlightenment
- Guidance of the Holy Spirit
- United Praises to God
- Making Noise vs. True Devotion
- Cultured vs. Spiritually Enlightened
- Embracing Spiritual Blessing
- Desiring to Worship
Key Quotes
“When the Holy Spirit comes among us with His anointing, we become a worshiping people!” — A.W. Tozer
“If some believer's 'Glory to God!' really bothers you, it may be because you do not know the kind of spiritual blessing and delight the Holy Spirit is waiting to provide among God's worshiping saints.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We should not judge others' expressions of worship as inferior or embarrassing.
- We should seek spiritual enlightenment to experience the true blessing of worshiping God.
- We should desire to be among those who worship God with sincerity and devotion.