We've commonly equated "worship" with music, singing, responsive readings, reading scripture passages, choir specials, or any number of other things that we are accustomed to when attending a church service. But do these things, by themselves, have any spiritual significance? What are the elements of worship that we might be missing? To find the answers to these questions, we should look to the Bible.

There are three main aspects of worship expressed in the Bible, related by the three different words commonly translated as "worship" in nearly every English translation. Interestingly enough, these three words are found in Hebrew in the Old Testament and in Greek in the New Testament – indicating that the true nature of worship has not changed between the old and new covenants.

The first word is the Hebrew hawah, or the Greek word proskuneo. Often translated as "worship," this is also translated as "bow down" or "pay honor." It recognizes the attributes of the authority, and the willingness to submit to that authority.

The second word is the Hebrew 'abad, or the Greek word latreuo. Along with being translated as "worship," this is also commonly translated as "serve," usually referring to the act of offering sacrifices. It is about ministering to God.

The final word is the Hebrew yare', or the Greek word sebomai. As well as being translated as "worship," this is also often translated as "fear." This sense of fear is not about being terrified, but rather about an incredible sense of awe, respect, and reverence that drives one to obedience. This is occasionally translated as "devout" in the New Testament.

Here we have three primary meanings of worship, where God is the object of each act – giving honor (submission), service (sacrifice), and reverence (obedience).

How do our common elements stack up against these Biblical principles of worship? Certainly we approach hawah and yare' when we sing songs that give glory to God and declare our intent to be faithful. Certainly our acts of bringing offering, taking communion and participating in baptisms reflect 'abad. But these acts are symbolic, outward gestures, which even if brought in a heartfelt way, do not embody true worship.

True worship is living each of these elements out through our lives, not just at weekly gatherings, but every day through our jobs, our families, and our relationships. Our lives must be lived in submission to Him. Our lives must be sacrificed to Him. And our lives must be lived in obedience to Him.

We should not limit our view of worship. Submission, sacrifice, and obedience could easily be summarized this way: following Jesus.

This is not an easy calling, and it is not for the faint at heart. Jesus called his followers to "take up your cross" – the most gruesome punishment ever. Are we ready to have our hands nailed? Are we ready to suffer for the sake of the kingdom? Are we ready to sing these words – and mean it?

    "It may be through the shadows dim, or over the stormy sea,
    I take my cross and follow Him, wherever He leadeth me."
        -- B. B. McKinney, "Wherever He Leads I'll Go" (1936)

    "Father, let me dedicate all this life to Thee,
    In whatever worldly state, Thou would have me be.
    Not from sorrow, pain or care, freedom dare I claim;
    This alone shall be my prayer: glorify Thy name.

    If Thou callest to the cross, and its shadow come,
    Turning all my gain to loss, shroudng heart and home;
    Let me think how Thy dear Son to His glory came,
    And in deepest woe pray on, 'Glorify Thy Name'."
        -- Lawrence Tuttiett, "Father, Let Me Dedicate" (1864)

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