2.4 Declare His Glory Among the Nations
The Diversity of Worship: Singing, Praising, and Evangelizing Among the Nations

Read Psalm 96. What diverse aspects of worship are mentioned in this Psalm?

Psalm 96 mentions various aspects of worship, encompassing a wide range of actions and attitudes:

1. Singing and Praising: The Psalm begins with a call to sing a new song to the Lord and praise His name (Verses 1-2). Singing and praising are fundamental expressions of worship that convey the joy and gratitude of the heart.

2. Proclamation of God’s Glory: The Psalm encourages telling of the glory and greatness of God (Verses 3-4). This includes recounting God’s wonderful deeds to others and proclaiming His praise.

3. Bringing Gifts: It is noted to bring gifts to the temple of God (Verse 8). This can be understood as a symbolic gesture of devotion and worship by offering the best of one’s possessions to the Lord.

4. Evangelism and Proclamation of the Kingdom of God: An important aspect of worship in Psalm 96 is the evangelistic dimension, which involves proclaiming the Gospel among other nations (Verses 2-3, 10). Worship is not only intended for one’s own people but also serves to lead others to worship the Lord.

5. Expectation and Hope for God’s Judgment: The Psalm speaks of the expectation of God’s judgment at the end of time (Verses 10-13). This judgment is understood as the restoration of divine order of peace, justice, and well-being in a world currently burdened by injustice and suffering.

6. Holy Fear and Reverence: Despite the joy and confidence in worship, the importance of holy fear and reverence before the Lord is emphasized (Verses 4, 9). Worship should be accompanied by a deep reverence and respect for God.

In summary, Psalm 96 shows that worship is not limited to a particular action or attitude but is diverse and encompasses various dimensions, including praise, evangelism, devotion, hope, and reverence for God.

Compare this Psalm with the Three Angels’ Messages (Revelation 14:6–12). In what ways does it teach the same fundamental truths as this end-time message that we are to proclaim to the world?

Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages in Revelation 14:6–12 indeed share some fundamental truths and themes presented in end-time proclamation. Here are some parallels:

1. The Call to Worship God: Both Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages call upon people to worship God. Psalm 96 encourages singing a new song to the Lord and praising His name, while the first angel’s message calls on people to fear God, give Him glory, and worship Him who made heaven, earth, sea, and springs of water (Revelation 14:7).

2. Proclamation of God’s Glory: Both texts emphasize the importance of telling of God’s glory and greatness. In Psalm 96, there is a call to tell others about God’s wonderful deeds, while the first angel’s message proclaims that “the hour of His judgment has come” (Revelation 14:7), pointing to divine power and sovereignty.

3. The Message of the Gospel to All Nations: Psalm 96 includes the evangelistic dimension of worship, which involves proclaiming the Gospel among other nations. Similarly, the second angel’s message in Revelation 14:8 announces that Babylon has fallen and calls for turning away from its false teachings and accepting the true Gospel.

4. Expectation of God’s Judgment: Both texts speak of the expectation of God’s judgment. Psalm 96 mentions that the Lord is coming to judge the earth (Verse 13), while the third angel’s message in Revelation 14:9–11 warns of the coming judgment upon those who worship the beast and its image and receive its mark.

5. The Importance of Sanctification and Holding to God’s Commandments: Psalm 96 emphasizes the need to worship in holiness and fear before the Lord. Likewise, the third angel’s message in Revelation 14:12 stresses the importance of sanctification and holding to God’s commandments.

Overall, both Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages teach fundamental truths about worshiping God, proclaiming the Gospel, expecting judgment, and the importance of sanctification in the end times. Both messages remind people to fear God, give Him glory, and proclaim His Gospel while pointing to the coming judgment and the necessity of sanctification.

The connection between Psalm 96 and our daily lives, as well as our faith, lies in the practical application of the fundamental truths presented in this Psalm and in the Three Angels’ Messages. Here are some aspects of this connection:

1. Worship as a Lifestyle: Both Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages teach us that worship is not limited to specific religious actions or rituals but should be a way of life. In our daily lives, we should glorify God through our singing, praising, evangelizing, and dedication to Him. This means that our work, relationships, and entire conduct should be characterized by our love and devotion to God.

2. Evangelization as a Commission: Both texts emphasize the necessity of proclaiming the Gospel to all nations. This reminds us that it is our responsibility to tell others about God’s love, His glory, and His coming judgment. We should not hesitate to share the Gospel in our daily interactions and conversations and invite people to worship and serve God.

3. Expectation of Judgment and Sanctification: Both Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages speak of the expectation of God’s coming judgment and the necessity of sanctification. This reminds us that we should strive for holiness in our daily lives by separating ourselves from sin and worldliness and submitting ourselves to God in our thoughts, speech, and actions. The expectation of judgment should also motivate us to live a life of reverence and obedience to God.

4. Joy and Confidence in Worship: Both Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages speak of the joy and confidence associated with worshiping God. This joy should be visible in our daily lives as it is a testimony to God’s transformative power in our lives. Even in the midst of difficulties and challenges, we should have the joy and confidence that come from the assurance that God is sovereign and will ultimately triumph.

Overall, the connection between Psalm 96 and the Three Angels’ Messages shows that the fundamental truths of worship, evangelization, expectation of judgment, and sanctification are relevant to our daily lives and faith. By practicing and living out these truths, we can glorify God and carry His message of love and hope into the world.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-worship-that-never-ends-2-4-declare-his-glory-among-the-nations/

12.3 Lord, Who May Abide in Your Tabernacle?
Holiness in Worship: The Conditions for Entering God’s Presence

Read Psalm 15. Who are those worthy to worship in God’s presence?

Those worthy to worship in God’s presence are described in Psalm 15. They are individuals whose actions and character reflect God’s holiness. These persons act justly and live uprightly by following God’s commandments and integrating His law into their daily lives. They are dedicated, holy, and strive to live in accordance with God’s will.

The sanctuary was a sacred place, and all who wished to serve or worship in its presence had to be holy. Therefore, holiness is an essential requirement for accessing God’s presence. Israel was called to practice comprehensive holiness, combining worship and ethics, exercised in all areas of life.

God’s law served to guide the people on their journey and enable them to fulfil their greatest potential, namely, to live as a kingdom of priests. As a royal priesthood, they have the responsibility to pass on God’s covenant blessings to other nations and to bring His light into the world.

In summary, those who are worthy to worship in God’s presence are people who lead lives of holiness, act justly, and live according to God’s will, both in their relationship with God and in their dealings with others.

Read Psalm 24:3–6 and 101:1–3. What does it mean to be holy?

The significance of holiness is highlighted in the mentioned Psalms:

Psalm 24:3–6: This passage describes those who may enter God’s sanctuary. They are those with clean hands and a pure heart, who do not seek after falsehood and are not deceitful. These qualities emphasize the purity and integrity of the worshiper before God.

Psalm 101:1–3: In this Psalm, the Psalmist discusses how he desires to lead a blameless life. He aims to walk in the way of perfection, especially in his own household, insisting on pure heart and blameless conduct.

To be holy means to have a pure heart that is whole and undamaged. It is a heart that sincerely seeks after God and is cleansed by God’s forgiveness. A holy life springs from acknowledging God’s grace and righteousness and leads to a lifestyle characterized by the fear of the Lord.

It is important to emphasize that most demands in these Psalms are formulated negatively, not to earn God’s favour but to avoid things that could separate us from God. Thus, holiness means not only doing good things but also avoiding bad things and living in a vibrant relationship with God, submissive to His Word and inspired by His grace.

How can we consciously choose to avoid what draws us away from God? What is involved, and how can we avoid it?

To consciously avoid what draws us away from God, there are several steps we can take:

1. Self-reflection and examination of conscience: We should regularly pause and examine how we live and whether our actions align with God’s commandments and our faith. This requires honest self-reflection and examination of conscience to identify areas that could compromise our relationship with God.

2. Prayer and spiritual community: We should pray regularly and ask for God’s guidance and strength to resist temptations and live in His wisdom. Likewise, it is important to connect with other believers and foster spiritual community to receive mutual support and encouragement.

3. Reading the Bible and meditation: Regularly reading the Bible and meditating on God’s Word are crucial to understanding God’s will and aligning our thoughts and actions accordingly. The Bible is a source of wisdom and guidance for our lives.

4. Making decisions: We must make conscious decisions that align with our convictions and faith. This may mean avoiding or changing certain behaviours, habits, or relationships that could draw us away from God.

5. Setting boundaries: It is important to set clear boundaries and protect ourselves from situations that could tempt us. This may involve avoiding certain places, regulating media consumption, or distancing ourselves from negative influences.

6. Repentance and turning back: When we realize that we have made mistakes or strayed from God’s path, it is important to be humble, show repentance, and turn back. God is merciful and forgives those who sincerely return to Him.

By consciously choosing a life that aligns with God’s will and through continuous self-reflection, prayer, Bible reading, and repentance, we can distance ourselves from what draws us away from God and develop a deeper relationship with Him.

The connection between our everyday life and our faith lies in our endeavor to lead a life of holiness that is pleasing to God. Here are some ways in which this connection can be established:

1. Self-reflection and examination of conscience: By regularly examining how we live and whether our actions align with God’s commandments, we can consciously choose to avoid what draws us away from God. Honest self-reflection enables us to identify areas that could compromise our relationship with God.

2. Prayer and spiritual community: Through regular prayer and participation in spiritual community, we can seek God’s guidance and strength to resist temptations and live in His wisdom. Spiritual community also provides support and encouragement from other believers.

3. Reading the Bible and meditation: Regularly reading the Bible and meditating on God’s Word allow us to understand His will and align our thoughts and actions accordingly. The Bible serves as a guide for a God-pleasing life and provides wisdom for our daily lives.

4. Making decisions: We must make conscious decisions that align with our convictions and faith. This means avoiding or changing certain behaviours, habits, or relationships that could draw us away from God.

5. Setting boundaries: It is important to set clear boundaries and protect ourselves from situations that could lead us into temptation. This may involve avoiding certain places, regulating media consumption, or distancing ourselves from negative influences.

6. Repentance and turning back: When we realize that we have made mistakes or strayed from God’s path, it is important to be humble, show repentance, and turn back. God is merciful and forgives those who sincerely return to Him.

By implementing these steps and consciously choosing a life that aligns with God’s will, we can develop a deeper relationship with Him and lead a life that is pleasing to Him.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-worship-that-never-ends-12-3-lord-who-may-abide-in-your-tabernacle/

12.2 Sing to the Lord a New Song
The Freshness of Worship: The New Song as an Expression of the Living Relationship with God

Read Psalm 33:3; 40:4; 96:1; 98:1; 144:9 and 149:1. What motif do these verses have in common?

The mentioned verses from the Psalms have the motif of the “new song” in common. A “new song” is more than just a musical piece; it represents a renewed dedication to God, based on the fresh experience of His goodness, sovereignty, and salvation. It is a response to God’s majesty and care, both as Creator and Judge of the world.

The reasons for singing a “new song” may vary but can include gratitude for His salvation and care, deliverance from enemies and death, as well as God’s special favor toward His people Israel. It is a celebration of the personal experience of divine deliverance and renewed dedication to God.

The common themes in these Psalms that speak of a “new song” include trust in God, praise for His wonderful deeds, and deliverance from distress. It is an expression of joy and thanksgiving stemming from the personal relationship with God and strengthens the community of believers.

Read Isaiah 42:10–12; Revelation 5:9 and 14:3. What can we deduce about the “new song” from these Bible texts?

The Bible texts from Isaiah 42:10–12; Revelation 5:9, and 14:3 provide additional insights into what the “new song” might signify:

1. Unique Testimony of Redemption: The “new song” is a unique testimony of redemption through the blood of the Lamb, as mentioned in Revelation 5:9. It is a song that expresses the special experience of redemption and deliverance through Christ.

2. Expectation and Hope: The “new song” also expresses expectation and hope, especially in Revelation 14:3, where those who follow the Lamb sing a “new song.” This could indicate that the song is an expression of hope for the future experience of perfect communion with God.

3. Freshness and Dynamism of Worship: True worship, as described in Isaiah 42:10–12, goes beyond external rituals and reflects a living relationship with God that is always fresh and dynamic. The “new song” could thus represent a daily renewed expression of our love and appreciation for what God has done for us.

In summary, we can deduce from these Bible texts that the “new song” is a profound and dynamic form of worship that reflects the personal experience of redemption, the hope for future communion with God, and the ongoing freshness and dynamism of the relationship with Him. It is a song of gratitude, hope, and expectation for the glory of God.

The connection between our everyday life and our faith lies in the practice of worship through the “new song.” Here’s how this connection can be established:

1. Personal experience of redemption: Singing a “new song” is based on the personal experience of redemption through Christ. In our daily lives, we should continually remind ourselves of how God has saved us and delivered us from various situations.

2. Hope and expectation: The “new song” also expresses hope and expectation, especially for future communion with God. In our daily lives, we should place our hope in God and trust that He will continue to guide and lead us.

3. Freshness and dynamism of worship: Our relationship with God should be fresh and dynamic, free from routine and formalism. We can sing the “new song” in our daily lives by worshiping God with a heart of gratitude, joy, and dedication, regardless of external circumstances.

4. Strengthening the community of believers: Singing the “new song” also strengthens the community of believers. In our daily lives, we should join together with other believers to praise and worship God collectively, encouraging each other in our faith.

Overall, the concept of the “new song” shows that our worship is not limited to specific times or places but should be integrated into our daily lives. It is a lively and dynamic form of worship that springs from a deep relationship with God and a personal experience of His goodness and salvation.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-worship-that-never-ends-12-2-sing-to-the-lord-a-new-song/

Lesson 12: Worship That Never Ends
The Diversity and Depth of Worship: Lessons from the Psalms and the Bible

Lesson 12 of our study delves into the profound theme of true worship and demonstrates how it should be rooted in our daily lives. As we engage with the Psalms and the teachings of Jesus, we realize that worship is much more than just external rituals and religious activities. Rather, it involves the posture of our hearts, our motivation, and the impact of our faith on our everyday actions.

In this lesson, we will explore the significance of authentic worship, which is not confined to Sunday worship services but should be reflected in every aspect of our lives. We will understand that God is not only interested in external forms of piety but, above all, in a sincere heart and a life that obeys His commandments.

By examining the Psalms and the teachings of Jesus, we will grasp why empty worship and useless sacrifices are rejected by God and how we can ensure that our faith is not superficial but deeply rooted in our daily lives.

Let us together delve into the depths of true worship and explore how we can practice it in our everyday lives to honor God in a way that pleases His heart.

12.1 Lift Up Your Hands in the Sanctuary
Blessing in the Sanctuary: Worship and Service as a Holy Priesthood

Read Psalm 124. Where does worship occur here? What is the result of worshiping God?

Psalm 134 reminds us that worship is not only an act of devotion but also a source of blessing. When we lift our hands in the sanctuary, we not only express our adoration for God but also receive His blessing. It is a mutual relationship where we bless God, and He blesses us in return. This blessing extends throughout our entire lives because it comes from the One who created heaven and earth. The mention of Zion as a place of special divine blessing emphasizes the deep connection between God and His people. Through worship, we not only experience the presence of God but also His blessing influence in our lives.

Read Psalms 18:2; 36:2; 113:1; 134:1–2, and 135:1–2. How are worshippers portrayed here?

In the Psalms, worshippers are portrayed as servants of the Lord who stand in His house and bring Him praise and thanksgiving. They are ready to praise God and serve Him day and night. The sanctuary serves as a place to reflect the glory of God and provide people with a secure framework to approach their holy King. This relationship between God and His people is characterized by mutual respect, worship, and service.

Worship is not only through external rituals but also through an internal understanding of divine grace and love. This is illustrated by the analogy of living stones in the New Testament, indicating that, as part of the holy priesthood, we offer spiritual sacrifices that are pleasing to God. This idea is further developed by Peter to emphasize that Christ, our Redeemer, is the focal point of our worship, and our praise and thanksgiving are brought to God through Him.

As believers of the New Testament, we also have a priestly role, called to convey the good news of the Gospel to the world. How can we do this most effectively?

As New Testament believers, we indeed have a priestly role, called to convey the good news of the Gospel to the world. Here are some ways we can do this effectively:

1. Being a Role Model: Our lifestyle should reflect the values and principles of the Gospel. By living in love, humility, forgiveness, and service, we draw others’ attention to Christ.

2. Evangelization through Relationship Building: By forming authentic relationships with people and spending time with them, we can better understand their needs, questions, and doubts. This provides us with opportunities to share the Gospel in relevant and compassionate ways.

3. Proclamation: Whether through personal conversations, public preaching, or sharing testimonies, directly proclaiming the Gospel remains an effective method to lead people to Christ.

4. Serving Others: Serving those in need, comforting the sick, visiting prisoners, and feeding the hungry demonstrate Christ’s love in a practical way. Such acts of mercy often open hearts to the Gospel.

5. Prayer: Prayer is a powerful tool to change hearts and create opportunities for Gospel spread. We should regularly pray for those around us and ask for divine opportunities for evangelism.

6. Community and Accountability: Engaging in a supportive community of believers provides not only support and encouragement but also opportunities for joint evangelism. Through collective actions and events, we can propagate the Gospel message.

Ultimately, we should be willing to be led by the Holy Spirit and serve according to our individual gifts and talents. Through a combination of lifestyle, word, and deed, we can be effective witnesses for Christ and contribute to others experiencing His love and salvation.

The connection between our everyday life and our faith is crucial and is highlighted in the Psalms mentioned as well as in the New Testament. Here are some ways this connection can be practically implemented:

1. Integrating Faith into Daily Life: Our faith should not be limited to Sundays or special religious events but should be present in all areas of our lives. We can live out our faith in our relationships, careers, decisions, and daily actions.

2. Worship and Service as a Lifestyle: Worship is not just a formal ritual but a lifestyle that honors God in everything we do. By considering our everyday lives as a form of service to God and others, we can live out our faith concretely.

3. Being a Role Model: Our lives should testify to the truth and power of the Gospel. Through a life characterized by love, mercy, forgiveness, and sincerity, we can show others what a life with Christ looks like.

4. Evangelism in Daily Life: We can evangelize by consciously seizing opportunities to talk about our faith and tell others about the hope we have found in Christ. This can be done through both direct conversations and sharing testimonies.

5. Serving Others: Serving those in need is a tangible way to live out our faith in daily life. By helping others, comforting them, encouraging them, and supporting them, we demonstrate the love of Christ in action.

6. Prayer and Dependence on God: Our daily lives should be characterized by prayer and dependence on God. We should regularly communicate with God to seek His guidance, strength, and wisdom to face life’s challenges and discern His plans for us.

By actively integrating our faith into our daily lives and bearing witness to Christ through our lives, words, and deeds, we can be effective witnesses for the Gospel and contribute to others experiencing the love and redemption of Christ.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-worship-that-never-ends-12-1-lift-up-your-hands-in-the-sanctuary/