The Biblical Concept of Worship. An Exposition of John 4:23-24

Table of Contents

• CHAPTER ONE – INTRODUCTION
  • Introduction
  • Statement of the Problem
  • Purpose of the Study
  • Scope of the Study
  • Methodology and overview of the Study
• CHAPTER TWO – HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF THE GOSPEL OF JOHN
  • Authorship
  • Date
  • Purpose and destination
• CHAPTER THREE – LITERARY CONTEXT
  • Introduction
  • Larger Context
  • Immediate Context
  • Conclusion
• CHAPTER FOUR - EXPOSITION OF JOHN 4:23-24
  • Introduction
  • The time has come... true worshippers.......
  • Worship in Spirit and in Truth .....
  • The kind of worshippers the father seeks... God is spirit.
• CHAPTER FIVE – APPLICATION, SUGGESTIONS AND CONCLUSION
  • Application
  • Suggestions
  • Conclusion

Objectives and Key Themes

This thesis aims to explore the biblical concept of worship, particularly focusing on the teaching of Jesus in John 4:23-24. It seeks to provide a clear understanding of what constitutes true worship and how to experience it authentically. The thesis addresses the need for education and enlightenment for Christians in Africa regarding the requirements and expressions of biblical worship, aiming to counteract incorrect interpretations and practices within the church.

• Biblical definition of worship
• Understanding true worship as expressed by Jesus
• The importance of discipleship in the context of worship
• Addressing syncretism and incorrect worship practices
• The significance of worship as a spiritual act

Chapter Summaries

• Chapter One - Introduction: This chapter establishes the context for the thesis, introducing the problem of misunderstanding and misrepresenting worship within the Christian church in Africa. It outlines the purpose of the study, which is to provide a clear biblical understanding of worship, and defines the scope of the research, focusing on John 4:23-24.
• Chapter Two - Historical Background of the Gospel of John: This chapter examines the historical context of the Gospel of John, including authorship, date, and purpose, providing background information for the interpretation of John 4:23-24.
• Chapter Three - Literary Context: This chapter explores the immediate and broader literary context of John 4:23-24, setting the stage for the exposition of the passage in the next chapter.
• Chapter Four - Exposition of John 4:23-24: This chapter delves into the meaning and significance of John 4:23-24, examining Jesus' definition of worship and emphasizing the concept of worship in spirit and in truth. It explores the characteristics of genuine worship as described in the text.

Keywords

This research focuses on key terms and concepts related to worship, including: biblical worship, true worship, worship in spirit and in truth, discipleship, syncretism, African Christianity, John 4:23-24.