Worship — Meaning in the Bible
Honouring God as God: bowing down, praising, serving and offering him our lives. The Bible describes worship in songs, sacrifices, prayer and daily obedience.
Scripture in WEBWorld English Bible — Protestant Edition
What it means
The Hebrew and Greek words for worship often picture bowing down. Israel worshipped at the tabernacle and temple with sacrifices, songs and prayers. Genesis 24:26Psalm 95:62 Chronicles 7:3
Jesus told the Samaritan woman that true worshippers will worship in spirit and truth. Paul urges believers to offer their bodies as a living sacrifice, their spiritual service. John 4:21–24Romans 12:1
Key passages
- Exodus 20:3–6 — Worship God alone.
- Psalm 95:1–7 — Come, let's worship and bow down.
- Psalm 100 — Serve the LORD with gladness.
- John 4:19–24 — In spirit and truth.
- Romans 12:1–2 — A living sacrifice.
- Revelation 4:8–11 — Worship in heaven.
For children
Worship means showing God how great he is: praising him, praying, singing and obeying him. Psalm 95 says, "Come, let's worship and bow down". Psalm 95:6
Study further
- Psalm 95 A call to worship.
- John 4:1–26 Spirit and truth.
- Revelation 4–5 Heavenly worship.