Changed Quote by Marva Dawn
“Worship ought not to be construed in a utilitarian way. Its purpose is not to gain numbers nor for our church to be seen as successful. Rather, the entire reason for our worship is that God deserves it. (Worship) immerses us in the regal splendor of the King of the cosmos…provides opportunities for us to enjoy God’s presence in corporate ways that takes us out of time and into the eternal purposes of God’s kingdom. As a result, we shall be changed—but not because of anything we do. God, on whom we are centered and to whom we submit, will transform us by his Revelation of himself.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Purpose of Worship, Marva Dawn, 2005
Worship should be done for God's own sake, not to gain followers or appear successful; it immerses believers in God's eternal presence and transforms them through His revelation.
In simple terms: Worship is for God, not for numbers or image; it changes us through His presence.
Key Takeaway
Worship God sincerely, seeking transformation, not approval.
Themes
faith
spirituality
humility
transformation
community
Mood
reverent
reflective
hopeful
Type
theological
inspirational
When to use this quote
- church services
- personal prayer
- spiritual retreats
Key Concepts
theocentrism
ritual significance
eternal perspective
Questions to Reflect On
- How does one keep worship focused on God alone?
- What practices help maintain humility in corporate worship?
A Different Perspective
Human desire for approval can still infiltrate worship practices.
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