When it comes to worship, the people of Israel loved to give sacrifices and go to places of pilgrimage. Without a doubt, an observer looking in from the outside would have affirmed that Israel was very religious. There were lots of tithes, lots of journeys, lots of offerings. However, this was all a show. In reality, Israel was unconcerned about truly meeting God in worship. They went to the wrong places (Bethel and Gilgal instead of Jerusalem) and their offerings were not accompanied by real life change. Worship was basically a means of appeasing their conscience. No need to control my sexual desires; no need to use my money differently; no need to show justice in the law courts. I have done what God expects—I have given my money—now I can live as I please.
From Israel’s worship we can see that their relationship with God was functional and not devotional. They thought that their worship was a means of appeasing God so that he would give them good things that enable them to live life as they please. Their example is a warning to us.
It is easy to substitute the flashy in worship for real change. We can give tithes generously but when it comes to our ambitions, relationships, or habits—that is an area of life that remains off limits
to God. Or what about worship for fulfillment and not obedience? We feel good to hear promises of God—it gives us a certain experience. We can be quick to think that if I have a fuzzy feeling in my heart that means I am worshipping God; we are really connecting. In reality, true worship is seen in practical obedience. Remember Jesus’ words to disciples: if you love me, you will keep my commandments (John 14:15).
Finally, we must also be careful that our worship is not focused on getting stuff from God instead of honouring him because he is worthy. Once again it is easy to think: if I am diligent in attending church, God will bless my life and keep me free from pain and hardship. This is not true. God wants a relationship; he is worthy of worship because of who he is—worthy of worship even in those times when we do not feel like it.
4 “Come to Bethel, and transgress; to Gilgal, and multiply transgression; bring your sacrifices every morning, your tithes every three days;