Word and Spirit: Truth Fuels Our Praise
Worship Wednesday #3
Have you ever wondered why some worship experiences feel shallow, while others leave you deeply changed? At Redeemer, we believe worship thrives when it’s shaped by both God’s Word and the Holy Spirit. In John 4:24, Jesus said, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” That single verse points us toward a balanced, life-transforming worship experience—engaging both our hearts and our minds.
We’re a Gospel-Centered community, meaning we anchor everything—songs, sermons, prayers—in the saving truth of Jesus Christ. Week by week, as we open Scripture and invite the Spirit’s guidance, we don’t settle for emotional hype or dry intellectualism. Instead, we aim for a vibrant encounter with the living God. This matters because worship isn’t about impressing each other or stirring up fleeting feelings; it’s about magnifying Jesus, whose redeeming work we never outgrow.
That’s why our Sunday gatherings feature the reading and preaching of God’s Word (see “Sunday Worship: hear the Word proclaimed”). We’re convinced that when Scripture shapes our thinking, the Holy Spirit has fertile ground to grow faith. Like seeds planted in rich soil, His Word renews our minds (Romans 12:2) and inspires heartfelt, Spirit-led praise. By the time the band leads us in songs or the congregation prays, we’re not just going through motions; we’re responding to the truth that’s taken root in us.
Key Line: “The Truth lifts Jesus—Redeemer stands on His Word.”
So how does this look in daily life? For starters, we encourage you to engage with Scripture beyond Sunday—maybe through personal devotions or connecting with others in a Gospel Community. As you soak in God’s Word, ask the Spirit to apply its truths to your heart and relationships. Then, when we come together to worship, we bring that personal growth into our collective praise, glorifying God as a family of believers centered on Jesus.
Call to Action:
This week, before the next worship gathering, try reading the passage we’ll be studying on Sunday and praying, “Lord, let Your Spirit shape my heart through Your Word.” Arrive ready to see how that Scripture comes alive in the music, prayers, and preaching—trusting God to do more than you expect.
Final Encouragement:
True worship demands both Word and Spirit, uniting our hearts and minds around Christ’s unchanging gospel. As we commit to that approach, we’ll see our praise deepened and our discipleship strengthened. Let’s keep standing on God’s Word and relying on His Spirit, confident that He is the one who transforms us for His glory.
