Contemporary, Informal Praise Service?

If you were to have an audience with the Queen of England or some world leader, would you wear a ball cap, jeans and flip-flops? Some might say, “Yes,” but most would show more dignity than to do so. Not long ago, I was driving by a church building where there was a sign that read, “Contemporary, Informal, Praise Services.” Here were a people who were announcing their lack of respect and reverence to God. Nowhere in the Holy Scriptures does one find anyone being “informal” in his worship to his Sovereign, Creator and Ruler of the universe—The Almighty God! There was always a formal dignity and respect.

    The hymn writers of old recognized this. Read the words of “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God” written by Martin Luther and be favorably impressed with the respect and reverence the lyrics express to God.

    Friends, God is not our buddy! He is our Creator, Our Sustainer and our Savior! Habakkuk said, “The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before Him.” Those in the Revelation were singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy.” There was no “informal” praise there. How do you worship?