Adoration
Adoration in the Bible refers to a profound expression of reverence, love, and worship directed towards God. It encompasses both the acknowledgment of God’s supreme greatness and the deep affection that believers have for Him. In the context of biblical worship, adoration is often manifested through prayer, praise, and acts of devotion. The term is closely associated with the concept of worship, which involves recognizing God’s holiness, majesty, and authority. For example, in Psalm 95:6, it states, "Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!" This verse illustrates the physical posture of adoration, signifying humility and submission before God.In the New Testament, adoration takes on a more personal aspect through the relationship believers have with Jesus Christ, who is seen as the embodiment of God’s presence. Philippians 2:10-11 expresses this sentiment, stating that "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." This highlights that adoration is not only an act of reverence but also a recognition of the divine authority and lordship of Jesus. Overall, adoration in the Bible is a holistic response to God's nature, encompassing praise, worship, and an invitation into deeper communion with Him.
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Bless the Lord, O My Soul!
By Andrew Bonar0PSA 103:1Andrew Bonar emphasizes the importance of adoration in the life of a believer, distinguishing it from mere thanksgiving. He reflects on the psalmist's call to bless the Lord for His mercies, including forgiveness of sins, healing of diseases, redemption from destruction, and the crowning of loving-kindness. Bonar illustrates how true adoration leads to a deeper understanding of God's character and His works in our lives. He encourages believers to remember and praise God for His countless benefits, urging them to cultivate a heart of gratitude and wonder. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a recognition of God's grace that transforms our perspective and deepens our worship.
Adoring Worship
By A.W. Tozer02CO 5:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound nature of adoration in worship, noting that while the term may not appear in the King James Bible, the essence of loving God is vividly present. He reflects on the passionate love that biblical figures like David and Paul exhibited towards God, suggesting that true love for Christ can lead to actions that may seem irrational to outsiders. Tozer critiques modern Christianity for lacking this deep, personal love for Christ, arguing that much of the worship in conservative circles is often insincere and lacks genuine fervor. He calls for a revival of heartfelt adoration that transcends mere ritualistic praise.
The Spirit of Worship
By Leonard Ravenhill461:05:00EXO 25:22PSA 95:6MAT 26:6JHN 4:24REV 5:12Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound significance of worship in his sermon 'The Spirit of Worship.' He reflects on personal experiences that led him to understand that worship is the highest form of communion with God, transcending mere prayer and praise. Ravenhill argues that true worship involves deep adoration and contemplation of God's holiness, urging believers to prioritize worship over service. He illustrates this through biblical examples, particularly the woman who anointed Jesus, highlighting that genuine worship is sacrificial and intimate. Ultimately, he calls for a rediscovery of worship as a vital aspect of the Christian life, encouraging believers to engage with God in spirit and truth.
Adoration
By Leonard Ravenhill10350:47LUK 7:36Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the profound nature of adoration in his sermon, illustrating how true worship involves recognizing our unworthiness and bringing our gifts to Jesus, much like the woman who anointed His feet with precious ointment. He reflects on the depth of God's mercy and love, highlighting that despite our sins, we are accepted and cherished by Him. Ravenhill contrasts the genuine worship of the woman with the indifference of the Pharisee, urging believers to approach Jesus with humility and a heart full of gratitude. He calls for a deeper understanding of faith, encouraging the congregation to rest in God's faithfulness and to actively seek to honor Him in their lives. Ultimately, the sermon is a call to worship that transcends mere attendance, inviting believers to bring their gifts and adoration to the Lord.