Scripture: John 4:24 (ESV) – “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.”
Jesus continues His teaching on true worship by explaining that God is spirit. This means that He is not confined to any physical location, temple, or ritual—He is infinite, invisible, and present everywhere. Because of this, those who truly worship Him must do so in spirit and truth. Worship is no longer about the external, but about the internal—a heart that is surrendered to God, led by the Holy Spirit, and aligned with His revealed truth.
John Calvin, in his Commentary on the Gospel of John, explains that Jesus is correcting both Jewish and Samaritan misunderstandings about worship. The Jews focused on the temple in Jerusalem, while the Samaritans had Mount Gerizim. But God is not bound to a particular place or form of worship—He is spirit, and true worship must go beyond external ceremonies to reflect a sincere, inward devotion.
Calvin emphasizes that to worship in spirit means to engage with God from the heart, with sincerity, faith, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Worship that is merely external or routine—even if it is performed with great effort—does not please God if it lacks true devotion.
To worship in truth means to worship according to God’s revealed Word, not according to human traditions or personal opinions. Many people worship based on what feels right to them, rather than on the truth of who God is. Calvin warns that misguided worship—even when sincere—does not lead to God. True worship must align with the truth revealed in Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6).
For us, this verse serves as both a challenge and an invitation. It challenges us to examine whether our worship is merely outward or truly from the heart. At the same time, it invites us into authentic worship, led by the Spirit and based on God’s truth. This means we can worship God anywhere, at any time, because He is always present with us.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean for God to be spirit, and how does this shape the way we worship Him?
- How can you ensure that your worship is both Spirit-led and rooted in biblical truth?
- Do you ever find yourself going through the motions in worship? How can you focus on engaging with God from the heart?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You are spirit, and You call us to worship You in spirit and truth. Forgive us for the times when our worship has been routine or shallow. Fill us with Your Spirit, and teach us to seek You with sincere hearts. Help us to build our worship on Your Word, so that we may honor You in the way You desire. May our lives be a reflection of true worship, bringing glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
This devotional is based on insights from John Calvin’s Commentary on the Gospel of John on John 4:24.
Covenant Presbyterian Church 