Bible Reference: John 4:23-26 (KJV)
The purpose of an encounter with Jesus is to know the way, the truth, and the life of a true worshiper of God. “Even every one that is called by my name: God said, I have created him for my glory,” Isaiah 43:7 He saved Israel from Egyptian Bondage that they may worship Him. The entirety of God’s redemption plan is to build a kingdom of true worshipers. God’s relationship with man since Adam, centers around those who worship Him, according to His will and in obedience to His ways and commandment. The bible is lined up with true worshipers like Abel, Abraham, Moses, and King David, among others. But we are focusing on the author and finisher of our faith, Jesus Christ.
From the experience of the Samaritans with Jesus, we can identify three required elements of a true worshiper: First is the encounter with Jesus, which leads to an applicable knowledge of God. 16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16 (KJV) This is the only way to begin relationship with the living God. He is beyond human examination, but you can experience His awesome power and presence.
Next element is the Living water, which is the Holy spirit. Jesus cried out, If any man thirsts, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7:37-38 (KJV) The Holy spirit is the source and power of the true worshiper. Without the Holy Spirit you cannot know or have the desire to worship God in spirit and in truth. Therefore, the Lord promised the gift of Holy Spirit, to all who hunger and thirst for His kingdom and righteousness. He said, if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. John 7:37 (KJV)
The third component of true worshiper is the offering or sacrifice. Your worship is deemed true and acceptable to God conditioned on what you offered. Jesus gave Himself. 15 As the Father knows me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. John 10:15 (KJV). This is the perfect example the true worshiper. And Jesus commanded that we do likewise. John 13:15 Saying He that love his life shall lose it; and he that hates his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. John 12:25(KJV) To offer a true worship, your “self” must be the sacrifice on the altar of God’s Grace and Mercy. Romans 12;1 Because God is Spirit, His preferred offering is a resurrected life in Christ Jesus. Thank God, the Spirit teaches and empowers us to follow his footsteps. By His grace we will conclude this series next week, with the acts of true worshipers, as demonstrated by the Lord Jesus Himself. Meanwhile keep watching and praying. God bless you
