Worship Matters to God

Jude helps us contend for the faith by reminding us of the importance of worship. We learn how to approach God by looking at those who did it wrong (Cain, Balaam and Korah). Worship matters to God therefore it should matter to us.

Woe to them! They have taken the way of Cain; they have rushed for profit into Balaam’s error; they have been destroyed in Korah’s rebellion. (Jude 1:11)

I. The Way we Worship Matters

Jude issues a strong warning concerning our approach in worship. He tells us the importance of worship is found in obedience, not works. Cain offered God the fruit of his hands (works) while Able offered the best of his flock (blood) Genesis 4.

✓ Points Taken
o True worship points to the blood not good works
o The cross should be at the center of worship; the cross is

where sin and forgiveness meet,
o Be careful of false teachers, they lead people away from the

death, burial & resurrection. They choose the way of Cain, the way of self-promotion.

II. Why we Worship Matters

What motivates you? Why do you worship God? These questions must be answered internally. Through a prophet named Balaam, Jude shows us the danger of using spiritual motives for material gain. Balaam became a preacher for hire. His worship was no longer pure.

✓ Points Taken
o Worship God for who he is, not what you can get
o We cannot worship God and Money (Matthew 6:24)
o Remember, God is enough
o Be careful of false teachers, they abandon themselves for

gain and lead others to do the same. The Lord’s Day is not a work day!

III. How we Worship Matters

When it comes to our worship, God has established order and often reminds us to consider our ways. Jude tells us of the tragedy that awaits those who (like Korah) disregard Gods order. True worship of God is found in our obedience to God.

✓ Points Taken
o Worship God by following good leadership

▪ Paul said imitate me while I imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 4:16; 11:1)

o Speak well of the one who must account for your soul (Hebrews 13:17)

o Rebellion is as sinful as witchcraft (1 Samuel 15:23)
o Be careful of false teachers, they perish in their stubborn

ways and lead others to eternal destruction.

Worship Matters to God. If my heart is twisted it does not matter if my hands are raised.
God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirt and truth (John 4:24).