In John 4:24, Jesus delivers a profound statement that carries deep theological implications for how we approach and understand worship. This verse comes within the context of Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. In their conversation, the woman asks about the correct place for worship—whether it should be in Jerusalem, as the Jews believe, or on the mountain where Samaritans worship. Jesus responds by shifting the focus from external practices and locations to the deeper, more essential nature of true worship.

In John 4:24, Jesus stated that we must worship God in spirit and in truth. This passage is very similar to what Joshua said in Joshua 24:14, “Now therefore, fear the Lord, serve Him in sincerity and in truth…” A sure observation that can be made from these passages is that a certain attitude must accompany the worship we offer to God. In Matthew 6, we learn that good actions are worthless if not accompanied with proper attitudes. Charitable deeds, prayers, and fasting are all noble practices, but when accompanied with an improper attitude (to be seen of men), they are vain. In other words, God is not interested in empty ritualism. He desires that one’s attitude (one’s spirit) be engaged in the worship. Worship is more than simply a roll call of the redeemed, but should be an event when holy men and women humbly approach God with reverence and awe, and genuinely pay homage to Him as their Creator and Savior. Some of the most severe rebukes God ever directed toward His children involved worship that was offered without the spirit (See Malachi 1-3). I dare say that many Christians will arise early on Sunday, put forth a diligent effort to get the children out of bed and ready, drive to the church building, go to Bible class, sing songs, bow their heads in prayer, partake of the Lord’s Supper, and respectfully sit while the lesson is being presented, then depart for their homes having never accomplished what they intended to accomplish! In fact, instead of pleasing God, they have angered God by their routine actions devoid of spirit. Many of us know how easily worship can be offered without the proper spirit. Therefore, it would probably serve us well to make preparations for this event. After all, we’re not going to attend a trivial event as spectators, but rather we are entering the presence of Almighty God, not as spectators, but as participants.

According to John 4:24, we must also worship God according to truth. Jesus also tells us that God’s Word is truth (John 17:17). Consequently, if our worship is to be acceptable to God, we must worship Him according to the authoritative instructions of His Word. The acts of worship that we employ must be authorized by God if they are to be acceptable (Colossians 3:17). The standard of what we offer to God as worship is not regulated by our likes and dislikes; by our talents; or by our imagination, but by the revelation of God’s Will. In the same epistle in which God demands divine authority for all our beliefs and practices, He also condemns “will worship” (Colossians 2:22-23), or worship that one devises and prescribes from themselves.

John 4:24 is a foundational text for understanding the nature of true worship. Jesus calls us beyond external rituals and locations to worship God in a way that engages our spirit and is grounded in truth. As Christians, we are called to worship with sincerity and in accordance with the truth revealed in Scripture. In doing so, we honor the God Who is Spirit and Who desires to be worshiped. We must realize that there are a set of standards involved in true worship. True worship involves the proper attitude (in spirit) and the proper actions (in truth). When both of these matters are carefully observed “true worship” will result. As we worship God, let us do so with the utmost awe and reverence. Let us confine ourselves to those actions which God authorizes in His Word, and let us worship Him with passion. Our worship should never be a weariness (1 John 5:3), but a time of spiritual renewal (Hebrews 10:22-25).

Tobias Hatchett

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it is easy to overlook the many blessings that surround us. From the breath in our lungs to the love of family and friends, God’s blessings are present in every moment of life. Remembering these blessings can bring a sense of peace, humility, and gratitude (Philippians 4:6-7). In times of difficulty or when life seems overwhelming, it is especially important to pause, reflect, and recognize God’s goodness. The act of remembering God’s blessings is more than just a mental exercise; it is a spiritual discipline that anchors us in faith. Scripture encourages Christians to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18), reminding us that gratitude is not conditional on our circumstances but a continual practice. When we remember the blessings God has given us, whether we consider them big or small, we are reminded of His faithfulness and presence in our lives (Hebrews 13:5-6).

While we often associate blessings with periods of prosperity and comfort, God's blessings are equally present in times of difficulty. Trials and challenges, though painful, are part of God’s shaping process in our lives. James 1:2-4 reminds us to “count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience…” In the midst of struggle, we often seek God’s protection more earnestly than at other times. He provides strength to endure, comfort when we’re weary, and wisdom when we’re confused. These, too, are blessings. Through challenges, God refines our character, deepens our dependence on Him, and brings us closer to looking like Christ (1 Peter 5:8-11). As we recognize His will in these moments, we learn to be thankful not only for the smooth times but also for the hard ones. It’s easy to be thankful when everything is going well, but being thankful in difficult times is where the true power of gratitude lies. By choosing to recognize God’s blessings in the hardest moments, we affirm our faith in His goodness and sovereignty.

Being thankful for God’s blessings is not just a momentary action but a way of life. It calls us to regularly reflect on God’s goodness and to cultivate a spirit of gratitude in all we do (Colossians 3:16-17). As we are recipients of God’s blessings, we are also called to share them with others (Galatians 6:10). One of the most meaningful ways to express gratitude is by passing on the love, kindness, and generosity we’ve received. Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). When we give of our time, resources, or compassion, we not only bless others but also deepen our own gratitude and experience the joy that comes from being a channel of God’s love. Furthermore, thankfulness naturally leads to worship. When we acknowledge God’s blessings in our lives, we can’t help but respond in praise and adoration. Worship becomes an expression of our gratitude for all that God has done. Psalm 103:2 says, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits.” This verse reminds us not to forget the many ways in which God blesses us, encouraging us to live with a heart of reverence toward God in worship.

In a world that often emphasizes the next big thing or the pursuit of more, remembering God’s blessings invites us into a deeper appreciation for the present moment. It shifts our hearts from anxiety to peace, from scarcity to abundance, and from self-reliance to trust in God’s provision. By regularly reflecting on His goodness, we grow in gratitude, deepen our faith, and are inspired to live lives of generosity and service. Through the simple yet powerful act of remembering, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s blessings in our daily lives. In the end, a life marked by gratitude is one that draws us closer to God and transforms the way we live, see, and interact with the world (Romans 12:1-2). It’s a life that says, “Thank you, Lord, for Your blessings,” in every season and circumstance, knowing that His goodness never ends (Lamentations 3:22-23).

Tobias Hatchett

Philippians 4:8 is a profound and practical verse found in the New Testament, penned by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the church in Philippi. This verse gives a powerful exhortation for how Christians should direct their thoughts and mental energy in a world often consumed by distractions, negativity, and sin. Understanding the full context of the verse, its implications for
daily life, and the spiritual principles it upholds can lead to a deeper appreciation of its relevance for Christians today. To understand the full significance of Philippians 4:8, it’s essential to consider the broader context of the letter. Paul wrote this epistle from prison. Despite his circumstances, he expresses joy, gratitude, and encouragement to the Philippians. Within his
letter, Paul exhorts the brethren to be united, rejoice in the Lord, and live out the peace of God in their daily lives (Philippians 4:1-7). Philippians 4:8 follows these exhortations as a practical guideline for how to cultivate and maintain a Christ-centered mindset. Paul transitions from speaking about peace and joy to addressing the role of our thoughts in shaping our character
and actions. In essence, the verse calls Christians to be intentional about where they direct their mental energy, encouraging them to focus on things that honor God and promote spiritual growth (1 Peter 2:2).

Philippians 4:8 challenges Christians to engage in a radical shift in thinking. The thought life, according to Paul, is not neutral. What we think about shapes how we act and who we become (Proverbs 23:6-7). A mind that is filled with virtues like truth, nobility, and purity is more likely to lead to actions that reflect those same qualities.
1. Renewal of the Mind
Paul’s words echo the teachings of Romans 12:2, which urges Christians not to conform to the pattern of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of their minds. The act of thinking about “such things”—truth, nobility, purity, and excellence—becomes part of the renewal process, helping Christians live more in tune with God’s Will and be more aligned with His character.
2. Guarding the Heart
Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all diligence, For out of it spring the issues of life.” The heart in biblical terms often refers to the inner person, including our thoughts, will, and emotions. By focusing on virtuous things, Christians guard their hearts against the contamination of negative, sinful, or impure thoughts, and, as a result, live more in accordance with God’s Will.
3. Practical Applications
Philippians 4:8 isn’t just a theoretical or lofty ideal; it is immensely practical. In a world filled with constant distractions, negativity, and overwhelming information, this verse gives Christians a blueprint for choosing what to focus on. Whether it’s social media, news, entertainment, or personal relationships, Christians are called to engage thoughtfully with the world and to intentionally choose to dwell on things that honor God (see Ephesians 5:1-21).
4. Mental Discipline
Spiritual maturity requires discipline, and this includes controlling one’s thoughts. Philippians 4:8 is a call to mental discipline—challenging us to focus on what is good, beautiful, and noble rather than on worry, fear, or negative speculation (Philippians 4:6). It’s about exercising mental self-control, ensuring that what occupies the mind is aligned with God’s Word.

Philippians 4:8 provides both a framework and a challenge for Christian living, urging Christians to align their thoughts with the highest standards of truth, virtue, and righteousness. This mindset doesn’t just improve individual spiritual maturity but also serves as an example to the world around us (1 Timothy 4:15-16). By focusing on things that are true, noble, pure, and praiseworthy, Christians reflect the character of Christ in a dark and broken world. In practical terms, it means making conscious choices about what to allow into our minds, what to meditate upon, and how to cultivate a mindset that brings glory to God and peace to our hearts (Philippians 4:6-9).

Tobias Hatchett

Coming off the month of October where it seems death is the theme (looking at you Halloween), it is refreshing to come to November. Near the end of the month, we will celebrate Thanksgiving, a time of good food and family gatherings. For the Christian, thanksgiving is something that we should be involved with daily. In fact, Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:16 “in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Everything? Yes, everything! How often? Paul answered this question in Ephesians 5:20 “giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” In the good times and the bad we should always be a thankful people. What should we be thankful for? Consider just a few things:

• For God Himself (Rev. 7:12, 4:8-11).
• Our existence (Ac. 17:28).
• The many blessings God bestows on us each day (Mt. 5:45, 6:11; Ac. 14:17; 1 Tim. 4:4-5).
• For each other and the mutual faith, hope, and love we share (Ac. 28:15; Rm. 1:8, 16:3-4; 1 Cor. 1:4; Php. 1:3; Col. 1:3-5; 1 Th. 1:2-4; 2 Th. 1:3-4).
• To serve (‌1 Tim. 1:12).
• For Christ and the victory through and in Him (1 Cor. 15:57; 2 Cor. 2:14, 9:15).‌
• For the reception of God’s Word (1 Th. 2:13).‌
• When one obeys the Gospel (Rm. 6:17-18).

If we ever lose our thanksgiving it will result in departing from God. There is a whole laundry list of sins that the Gentiles were involved with in Romans 1. Observe how it got started “because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened” (Rm. 1:21 NKJV emphasis mine). A scary thought that we do not want to be guilty of!

I am thankful to be laboring with this good congregation and exhort you to continue in your growth and love for the Lord. I am thankful for everyone who helped with and participated in our 2nd Annual Lectureship we concluded earlier this week. It was a great event, and all glory goes to God. I am thankful for the outpouring of love and service shown for those who have lost loved ones recently. Let us always be a thankful people.

Trent Thrasher