For follow-up discussion and general commentary on the topic. Comments are sorted chronologically.
Tim Maas
From biblehub.com:
Worship in the Spirit signifies a departure from the ritualistic and legalistic practices of the Old Covenant. Jesus spoke of true worshipers who worship the Father in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). This worship is characterized by a heart transformed by the Holy Spirit, reflecting a personal and intimate relationship with God. The Spirit empowers believers to live a life pleasing to God, fulfilling the law's righteous requirements (Romans 8:4).
Jack Gutknecht
Tim, that's right to the heart of the matter!
Romans 12:1 – "I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."
Worship in the New Covenant is not about external rituals but offering oneself completely to God as a living sacrifice, signifying the personal, heartfelt commitment empowered by the Spirit.
Philippians 3:3 – "For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh."
This verse says to me that true worship is through the Spirit, not through external rituals like circumcision, but through the inner work of the Spirit in the life of the believer.
Hebrews 13:15 – "Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name."
This passage, as I see it, points to worship as the offering of praise and thanksgiving, done through Christ and empowered by the Spirit. It reflects an intimate, personal worship rather than mere external acts.
Jack Gutknecht
Together, these passages (both yours and mine) I believe emphasize that true worship transcends mere outward ritual. It is empowered by the Holy Spirit and rooted in a personal relationship with God, marked by living in alignment with His will and truth. And that must begin by accepting Jesus as one's personal Savior.