Fellowship Bible Church - Mullica, Hill N.J.

Zechariah 7: The Realities of Authentic Worship

In authentic Worship:
Routines are needed but can be deceptive (v4-7)

They were wondering: “In the current reality, what should our relationship with God begin to look like?"

Their specific question had to do with the 5th month (7:3) which commemorated the destruction of Jerusalem from Nebuchadnezzar. While in captivity the Jews observed this fast on the 5th month, but also on the 7th month, which commemorated the murder of Gedaliah, governor of Judah.

Year after year, fast after fast, Israel continued to observe the falling of Jerusalem, but it was all about them. They weren’t doing it for the Lord – they were doing it for them.

Spiritual routines not based on reality are irreverent.

We cannot come to church because of guilt. We come out of love.
We cannot do Bible studies to please our spouse. We do them out of love.
We cannot serve in church because of pressure. We serve out of love.

In authentic worship:
Our vertical and horizontal relationships are prioritized (v8-10).

True religion cannot be inwardly contained.

When your heart is full of God’s love, it has to go somewhere. If there is no care in your heart towards others, then your heart is not full of God’s love.

In authentic worship:
Responsiveness demonstrates true commitment (v11-14)

“As they pushed from the yoke of obedience, God laid on them the yoke of oppression. As they made their heart hard, God brake their hard hearts with judgment.” (JFB Commentary).

You will only accelerate in your relationship with God as far as your obedience to His Word takes you.