Thesis #23: “The New Apostolic Epoch” By: P. Douglas Small
We have developed techniques, adopted from the world, to enhance the worship experience. Artful worship enhancement of itself is not a crime. It is the substitution of genuine worship for artificial engagement of the senses, a substitution for the real ‘Presence’ of God that is destructive to both our lives and to God’s purposes.
“Repent therefore and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord,…”
(Acts 3:19 NKJV)
O, God, we call upon You to hear our cries of repentance today for neglecting to seek You. Help us to make You the central focus of our worship. Guide us to that place in our worship where we connect with You in the understanding that Jesus Christ, Your Son and our Savior, has built a bridge of acceptance, love and living before You in the grace of Your forgiveness and through the ransom of His own life and blood.
Help us keep proper perspective on the presentations of those gifted with special abilities to inspire us through their God-gifted talents of music, of dance and art. All glory belongs to You, for all things great and small, that reveals the magnificence of Your acceptance of all who call upon You, and worship You from the depth of their own heart with all their strength and ability.
Should we lose focus on the central theme of our worship, send Holy Spirit to bring us back and reestablish our sense of devotion to You and our humility before You.
We sincerely and humbly request that you grant these petitions in the Name of Your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ, the Nazarene. Amen!
