“Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.”

Hebrews 12:14 NKJV

I.  Unhealthy pattern?

A. Approaching the altar.  (Matthew 5:21-26).

What did Jesus say to do before this act of worship?

1. Prayer. (Matthew 6:9-15).

What did Jesus emphasize about this act of worship?

1. The Lord’s Supper. (I Corinthians 11:17-32).

What did Paul say to do before this act of worship?

D. The pattern is bitterness and lack of forgiveness in worship.

(Matthew 15:8-11 + John 4:23-24).

II. Root of bitterness.

1. What is the root of bitterness?  (James 4:1-10)

Can you be bitter without being self-centered?

1. What happens when I am not the focus? (II Samuel 16:5-14)

When we abide in Christ, there’s no room for bitterness. (Proverbs 16:7)

1. Healthy worship starts where self-centeredness ends (Psalm 19:14)

III. Called to Edify.

1. Can I do and say whatever I want? (I Corinthians 6:1-14)

All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful.

1. We are called to peace.  (Romans 12:9-21)

We cannot live by reaction; we are called to actions of love.

C.  Word of God speak – EPHESIANS 4:25-5:21