Some Thoughts on Praise and Worship Part Four by Ps Michael Podhaczky

Within the New Testament the idea of public and corporate praise and worship continued on from the Old Testament. The saints constantly came together to worship. For example, at the Passover meal the disciples finished the meal by singing hymns together (Matt 26:26-30 [v30]; Mk 14:22-26 [v26]). They probably praised and worshipped God by singing the Hallel Psalms found in chapters 115-118 (113-118 were read or sung at Passover). At the Ascension of Jesus Christ we are told that the disciples of Jesus “Worshipped Him” (Matt 28:9; Lk 24:51). Then at the end of the gospel of Luke we read that they “were continually in the temple praising and blessing God” (Lk 24:52).

In some of the letters from Paul, he instructed the believers on how to praise and worship in public. In 1 Corinthians he dealt with the lack of order in every part of their Church life, focusing on the importance of the order of the public meeting, saying,

“How is it then, my friends? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, and has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification” (1 Cor 14:26).

Also in Ephesians 5:18-20 and Colossians 3:16-17, we are told about the importance of complimenting one another within the public meeting. In the Old Testament praise and worship of God was usually accompanied by animal sacrifices made on behalf of the people. However, in the New Testament praise and worship was due to the sacrifice of Jesus the Lamb of God. This is to be a sacrifice that any and all believers can make, “the sacrifice of praise to God…” (Heb 13:15).

So, there is a need for individuals to praise and worship God, but not to the neglect public and corporate worship. It may be the case that people can worship God at home or through live streaming of services, and we need to be encouraged to do so. Yet we also need to come together to praise and worship God. Corporate praise and worship is something that is part of our community as Christ-followers. Can I encourage you do not dispense of it amidst society’s individualistic culture, but make it part of your life as part of the Kingdom culture.

Pause in His presence for a moment and think this over…