THEOLOGY AND WORSHIP

 

Many Christians today hold a common belief that studying about God is different from worshiping Him. Studying about God involves Bible studies, sermons, books, just to name a few. And worship primarily is about personal and church worship, songs, and instruments, among other things. There is some truth in this distinction of activities. However, because of these categories and labels, many of us end up choosing which one to prioritize. For instance, some think it’s fine to be late for the praise and worship part of the service, as long as they catch the sermon, believing that what truly matters is hearing the Word of God. This stems from a misunderstanding of how the Bible presents the relationship between theology and worship—between studying God and singing to and about Him.

In Colossians 3:16, we read, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Paul tells us to let the word of Christ dwell richly in us. How does this happen? First, through teaching one another (“teaching and admonishing one another”). Second, through worship together (“singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts”). In Ephesians 5:18–20, Paul speaks about being filled with the Spirit. And how are we filled with the Holy Spirit? Through worship with fellow believers; “addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always.” These verses explain well how we should view theology and worship. Through worship, God’s word dwells with us, and His Spirit fills us.

It’s no wonder that scholars note how, even before the New Testament was completed, early believers used worship songs to teach one another important truths. Some of the most important passages about the divinity of Christ are said to be hymns of the early church (e.g., Philippians 2:6–11; Colossians 1:15–20). This practice wasn’t new to them. In the Old Testament, the Book of Psalms served as Israel’s songbook—and to this day, it continues to teach us. Even Moses used a song to teach the people of Israel (Deut 31:19-22; 32:1-47). Deborah and Barak retold the story of God’s deliverance through a song (Judg 5:1-31). Biblically, teaching and worship complement each other.

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This truth calls us not only to be careful in worship (such as making sure that our lyrics are biblical) but also to value worship itself. We do not merely sing in worship. We are not simply expressing our emotions to God. We are also preaching to ourselves and to one another through the words and melodies we sing. Even before the sermon begins, God’s Word is already dwelling among us, and His Spirit is already speaking to our hearts. As we sing, God is teaching us. “Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for my soul.” (Psalm 66:16). 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘺 𝘊𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴.