Worshipers Then Workers
God's primary desire is for us to be worshipers who have learned the lost art of worship before being used for service.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Holy Spirit's primary role is to restore lost souls to a close relationship with God through regeneration. He explains that the Spirit reveals Christ to those who repent and illuminates their understanding, leading them into deeper communion with God. Tozer asserts that God desires worshipers before workers, highlighting that true service stems from a foundation of worship and holiness. He argues that God is not desperate for workers, as even inanimate objects would praise Him if necessary, and that moral qualifications are essential for those who serve. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a return to the lost art of worship as the basis for effective ministry.
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The primary work of the Holy Spirit is to restore the lost soul to intimate fellowship with God through the washing of regeneration. To accomplish this He first reveals Christ to the penitent heart (1 Cor. 12:3). He then goes on to illumine the newborn soul with brighter rays from the face of Christ (John 14:26; 16:13-15) and leads the willing heart into depths and heights of divine knowledge and communion. Remember, we know Christ only as the Spirit enables us and we have only as much of Him as the Holy Spirit imparts.
God wants worshipers before workers; indeed the only acceptable workers are those who have learned the lost art of worship.
It is inconceivable that a sovereign and holy God should be so hard up for workers that He would press into service anyone who had been empowered regardless of his moral qualifications. The very stones would praise Him if the need arose and a thousand legions of angels would leap to do His will. Gifts and power for service the Spirit surely desires to impart; but holiness and spiritual worship come first.
Sermon Outline
- The Primary Work of the Holy Spirit
- The Spirit's Role in Illumination
- God's Priorities
- Worshipers before workers
- Holiness and spiritual worship first
Key Quotes
“God wants worshipers before workers; indeed the only acceptable workers are those who have learned the lost art of worship.” — A.W. Tozer
“We know Christ only as the Spirit enables us, and we have only as much of Him as the Holy Spirit imparts.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Prioritize worship and spiritual growth before seeking to serve God.
- Recognize that our ability to serve God is dependent on the enabling power of the Holy Spirit.
- Seek to cultivate a deeper intimacy with God through the washing of regeneration.