Worship: Worship in the Prophets

We have much to learn from the theology of worship in the Prophets. The Prophets offer us a glimpse into the role of prophecy in worship and how our actions in life and our dedication to God reflect our worship. 

In Isaiah 6, we see a foundation for a life of worship set out. Isaiah claims he is of “unclean lips”, a reference to sin. The admittance of our sin and place in the world allows a place in our hearts to worship a transcendent God. Isaiah sees this vision of God’s glory filling the earth. God then asks whom He can send and Isaiah responds with a prominent “send me”. The willingness to serve God and commit to His work and kingdom is a form of worship that continues our entire life. When we know the heart of God and respond to His calling, we are worshipping. 

In Jeremiah and Ezekiel, a few themes stand out as relating to worship. Knowing God’s character, having no idols, and living a transformed life are all qualities of true worship. If we know God’s character, not just his acts and teachings, then we are able to worship in a more personal way. The prophets often depict our relationship as a father to a child (Ezekiel 16). It is this knowledge that opens the door and for us to leave our idols behind. When we give our allegiance, wealth, time, etc to something other than Yahweh, it becomes a form of idolatry of which true worship of God would then not be possible. True worship involves total devotion. Worship also involves repentance which Jeremaih and Ezekiel often speak of (Jeremiah 25:4-7; 26:3-7, Ezekiel 3:19; 33:9. They give messages of repentance and that by repenting and turning to God will their lives be transformed. Ezekiel and Jeremiah also speak about God providing a new heart and spirit for his people (Jeremiah 32, Ezekiel 36) and this represents the Spirit he now gives through faith in Jesus. When we have this new heart and Spirit we live a life different from the world, we live a life that is dedicated to God and his mission of spreading the gospel and encouraging believers, a life transformed. 

All of this translates into worship for God. When we admit our shortcomings, we worship God because we know he forgives and cleanses. When we respond to the voice and calling of God, we worship through our service and obedience. When we commit ourselves to knowing the one true Creator God, repent of past failures, and receive the Spirit, we are living a life of worship.