Sermon Link: Restoring Worship - Emmanuel Baptist Fellowship

Introduction

In our latest sermon, we focused on chapter eight in the book of Nehemia. This chapter is pivotal as it highlights the restoration of worship among the people of Judah. Nehemiah's story is not just about rebuilding physical walls but also about rebuilding spiritual lives. Let's explore the key takeaways and how they can apply to our lives today.

The Burden and the Call

What Was Nehemiah's Burden?

Nehemiah was deeply troubled by the state of Jerusalem. The city was in ruins, and its walls were burnt and torn down. This burden led him to seek God's guidance and take action. He returned to Jerusalem with the mission to rebuild the walls, a task that was miraculously completed in just 52 days.

Why Is Worship Important?

After the physical walls were rebuilt, Nehemiah and the people realized that their efforts would be in vain without restoring their worship of God. Worship is the cornerstone of our faith, and without it, our spiritual lives can crumble just like the walls of Jerusalem.

The Cost of Worship

What Does It Mean to Offer Worthless Worship?

King David once said, "I will not offer burnt offerings to the Lord my God that cost me nothing" (2 Samuel 24:24). This statement challenges us to consider the value of our worship. Are we offering God something that costs us nothing? True worship requires sacrifice and a heart fully devoted to God.

Unity in Worship

How Did the People of Judah Come Together?

In Nehemiah 8:1, it says, "All the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate." Unity was the first step in restoring worship. They came together with a common purpose: to hear the Word of God.

The Role of Desire and Attention

The people of Judah had a strong desire to hear God's Word. They stood attentively from early morning until midday, listening to Ezra read from the Book of the Law. This level of attention and desire is crucial for true worship.

The Elements of True Worship

What Are the Key Elements of Worship?

1. **Unity**: Coming together as one.

2. **Desire**: A strong longing to hear God's Word.

3. **Attention**: Being fully present and attentive.

4. **Purpose**: Understanding the reason for gathering.

5. **Participation**: Actively engaging in worship.

6. **Prayer and Praise**: Communicating with God and giving Him glory.

7. **Response**: Allowing God's Word to convict and change us.

8. **Sharing**: Spreading the joy and lessons learned with others.

Worship in Spirit and Truth

Jesus said, "God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth" (John 4:24). This means that our worship should be empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in the truth of God's Word.

The Power of Conviction

Why Is Conviction Important?

Conviction is a sign that God is still working in our hearts. When we feel convicted, it means that the Holy Spirit is guiding us back to the right path. Rejoice in conviction, for it is a sign of God's love and care for us.

Responding to Conviction

In Nehemiah 8:9, the people wept as they heard the words of the Law. This response shows the power of God's Word to convict and transform us. However, Nehemiah encouraged them to celebrate and find joy in the Lord, for "the joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10).

Life Application

How Can We Restore Worship in Our Lives?

1. **Commit to Unity**: Strive for unity in your church and community.

2. **Desire God's Word**: Develop a strong longing to hear and understand God's Word.

3. **Be Attentive**: Pay full attention during worship and personal Bible study.

4. **Engage Fully**: Participate actively in worship, prayer, and praise.

5. **Respond to Conviction**: Allow God's Word to convict and change you.

6. **Share the Joy**: Spread the joy and lessons learned with others.

Questions to Reflect On

1. What sacrifices am I making in my worship to God?

2. Am I truly worshiping in spirit and in truth?

3. How can I foster unity in my church and community?

4. Do I have a strong desire to hear and understand God's Word?

5. How can I be more attentive and engaged in worship?

Conclusion

Restoring worship is not just about attending church services; it's about a heart fully devoted to God. As we learn from Nehemiah, true worship requires unity, desire, attention, and a willingness to be convicted and transformed by God's Word. This week, let's challenge ourselves to restore worship in our lives, making it a priority and offering God our best.

"The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). Let this be our guiding principle as we seek to worship God in spirit and in truth.