I.
THREE SPHERES OF WORSHIP:
(It is right to
worship God at any time and in any relationship. But there are
three areas in which worship is crucial)
A.
AS AN INDIVIDUAL. This is most basic. If we are not taking
time for personal worship (Matt.
5: 6), it is doubtful that we will be worshipping in the
family or the church.
B.
IN THE FAMILY (Deut.
6: 4-9). Fathers have a special responsibility (Eph.
6:4). If they are not believers or will not lead, mothers
should do so (2
Tim. 1:5).
C.
IN THE CHURCH. We must remember that worship is not about us.
It is about God. It is not designed for us to derive something,
but to praise and adore Him. Also, it is the duty of parents to
train and teach their children. The church may supplement and
reinforce.
II.
EXCUSES FOR NOT HAVING FAMILY WORSHIP:
A.
WE DON'T HAVE TIME: A problem of priority. We must find time;
make time. We do so for things we deem crucial. Read of a busy day
in the life of the Lord (Mark
1: 21-34). Then note v.
35. Jesus was never in a hurry, but always found time to do
His Father's will.
B.
IT'S NOT CONVENIENT: A problem of schedule. If you're looking
for a convenient time, forget it. It will take sacrifice; cost.
C.
I DON'T KNOW HOW: A problem of technique. Two rules: Keep it
simple; Keep it short.
III.
COMPONENTS OF FAMILY WORSHIP:
A.
SPEND TIME IN THE WORD. Read a short Scripture. Use a Bible
storybook for young children. Emphasize Proverbs, a book designed
for the purpose.
B.
SPEND TIME IN PRAYER. Keep a prayer list. Include praise,
thanksgiving; petition; let the children pray re. their concerns.
C.
SPEND TIME IN PRAISE. Read a psalm; memorize it together.
Sing a hymn of praise or a children's song that gives praise.
D.
SHARE
YOUR EXPERIENCES (Deut.
4:9). Illustrate truth with things your eyes have seen.
CONCLUSION: Don't just
teach; be a model for your children. As they grow older they know
you are not perfect. Their concern: are you real? Are you genuine?
Glory
to God in the church by Christ Jesus
Franklin
Church of Christ
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