Day 23: Doctrine Shapes Worship

Scripture Reading:

“God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” – John 4:24, LSB

“Ascribe to Yahweh the glory of His name; worship Yahweh in the splendor of holiness.” – Psalm 29:2, LSB

Worship is central to the life of the church, but true worship is not left to human imagination. Jesus declared that God must be worshiped “in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). This means worship must be shaped by God’s revelation. Doctrine provides the boundaries and foundation that keep worship holy, God-centered, and faithful.

Without doctrine, worship quickly drifts into idolatry. Israel learned this when they built the golden calf. They still called it a “feast to Yahweh” (Exod. 32:5), but it was a false worship shaped by their desires rather than God’s Word. True worship flows from true doctrine—knowing who God is and what He requires.

The Psalms remind us of this continually: “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name” (Ps. 29:2). Worship is not about what pleases us but about what glorifies God. Sound doctrine ensures we know His character—holy, sovereign, merciful—and respond rightly.

John Calvin insisted that worship must be regulated by God’s Word: “God disapproves of all modes of worship not expressly sanctioned by His Word” (Institutes, 4.10.23). This principle, later called the regulative principle of worship, protects the church from inventing practices that distract from God’s glory.

Dr. Joel Beeke explains, “Sound doctrine is the life of worship; it provides the truths upon which the heart may meditate and the will may respond in praise” (Living for God’s Glory, p. 73). Doctrine gives content to our songs, meaning to our prayers, and depth to our preaching. Without it, worship is hollow.

Beloved, our worship is shaped by what we believe. If our doctrine is shallow, our worship will be shallow. But if our doctrine is deep and biblical, our worship will be rich, reverent, and Christ-exalting. Doctrine ensures worship is not about us but about the God who is worthy of all praise.

Personal Reflection

1. How does John 4:24 show that worship must be shaped by truth?

2. What dangers arise when worship is based on human preference instead of God’s Word?

3. Why does sound doctrine give life and depth to worship?

4. How can you help ensure your church’s worship remains grounded in truth?