Only One Worthy: Refocusing Worship in the Age of Idolatry
Zechariah 9-10; Revelation 19; Lamentations 3
There is only one truly worthy, and His name is Jesus.
In our efforts to create a culture of honor within the church, we may have inadvertently slipped into idolatry—idolatry toward individuals, their gifts, and their ministries. However, there’s a more excellent way to honor.
Consider John’s heavenly encounter:
Revelation 19:
9 “Then the angel said to me, ‘Write these words: Wonderfully blessed are those who are invited to the wedding celebration of the Lamb!’ And he added, ‘These are the true words of God.'”
10 “Overwhelmed, I fell at the angel’s feet to worship him. But he stopped me and said, ‘Don’t do this! I am a fellow servant with you and your brothers who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.'”
John, faced with such glory, reacted as many of us might—by falling down in worship. Yet, in heaven, idolatry is out of place. And so, it is out of place here also. The angel quickly corrected John, pointing him back to the only One who is truly worthy: Jesus.
We must resist being captivated by the grace and glory God places on His bride. We are merely reflectors, channels through which His light shines. Jesus alone is the source. As we proceed, let us fix our eyes on Him, the only one found truly worthy.
Deepening Faith: Reflective Journal Prompts
- Reflect on a time when you felt particularly drawn to admire someone’s spiritual gifts or ministry achievements. How can you redirect that admiration towards Jesus, recognizing Him as the source of all good things?
- How does understanding Jesus as the sole figure worthy of worship affect your daily interactions and personal worship practices?
- Consider the angel’s response to John in Revelation 19. What does this teach you about humility and the proper focus of worship in your own life?
- Have there been moments when you felt overwhelmed by the spiritual ‘glory’ seen in others? How can you use these moments to deepen your relationship with God rather than idolize human achievements?
- Write about what the statement “The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy” means to you. How does this perspective influence your view of prophecy and spiritual testimony?
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