Right on the wall of my little fitness corner (in my apartment) hangs an inscription taken from Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman by Jacob's well in the city of Sychar. It's one of the most classic statements uttered by Jesus. Rich in meaning, it depicts the mystery of his coming, dying, rising from the dead and living again today for you and I.
"But the Hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the father in spirit and in truth: for the father seeks such to worship him. God (is) a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship (him) in spirit and in truth" John 4: 23, 24 (italics not in the originals).
As I read these words again this morning, I began to ponder (as I oft do) on the meanings embedded in the words. Could it be that Jesus was hinting that true worship had not existed before then? Could he be saying that worship has certain pre-requisites for the worshipper? Could these be the clapping of hands, or the raising of arms? Could it be tied to the songs or prayers, the avenue or the atmosphere? Indeed as I mused, I knew it isn't any of these.
Earlier in the dialogue, the samaritan woman had bragged about their venue for worship. And Jesus characteristically informed her that from thenceforth, worship will no longer be identified by such physical pointers. Jewish worship was based on its venue (the temple in Jerusalem or on the mount), as well as the sacrifices and rituals performed (can be likened to the singing or type of singing or countenance of the 'worshipper' as we have today). In contrast rather, Jesus was making a bold statement.
This is the message: True worship is characterized by a Spiritual relationship with God, obtained at the New Birth by anyone and everyone who accepts Jesus as Lord and Saviour (being born again) and such worship is in view of Jesus, who is revealed as Truth. That is, a celebration of his redemptive work on calvary's cross in acknowledgement of the manifold blessings he has brought by this singular act.
No wonder True worship had not existed at the time of the chat. Afterall Jesus had not yet taken up the cross! Is it any wonder that even in this dialogue, Jesus was already talking about one of the many benefits of his coming? Now as Christians, we can truly worship God and live in ecstasy of his earthly work. No wonder he said " we would neither at a mountain or in Jerusalem" worship the father. For indeed, our worship can be exhibited anywhere, any place. It's the status quo of our lives. See how Paul defined it...
"For we are the circumcision (those in the Grace-covenant relationship with God), which worship God in the spirit (the relationship is spiritual), and rejoice in Christ Jesus (make our boast in him, glory in his work), and have no confidence in the flesh (do not base our assurance or beliefs in externals or physical showmanship)" Phil 3:3 (italics mine)
