Praise comes naturally out of a heart that has been forgiven. Lament flows naturally out of a heart that has been convicted. Songs of love flow naturally out of a heart that has been accepted, after confession and prayer, into the Father’s grace-filled arms. Where sacrifice has occurred, worship follows. Style matters little then. It is the condition of the heart that makes the difference. Conversely, the most fitting style and expert musical expression cannot move a heart that has not experienced sacrifice.
It could be argued that sacrifice is no longer a relevant term for the New Testament worshiper. Some might suggest that Christ’s sacrifice was the end of sacrifice and therefore ends also the role of sacrifice in worship. Those who argue such should not forget that the New Testament calls upon believers to offer the sacrifice of praise as well as ourselves as living sacrifices.
What, then, is sacrifice in the New Testament sense? King David once remarked to someone who offered him a “free” sacrifice; “I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” (2 Sam 24:24) David understood that at the heart of any true act of worship there is a cost, a sacrifice.
- Mike Atkins
