Biblical Worship: A Christ-Centered Practical Theology

By Matthew Westerholm

... Show All

Format: Paperback

Crossway+ members receive 30% off books. Learn more.

Availability: Forthcoming

Expected: Nov 17, 2026

Retail Price: $17.99

Biblical Worship: A Christ-Centered Practical Theology

By Matthew Westerholm

... Show All

Explore How Christ Completes Israel’s Worship Story and Empowers His Church to Worship in Spirit and Truth

Humans are made to worship, but as sinners, the most we can offer God is imperfect praise. In the Old Testament, people used various symbols and rituals to show devotion, but these flawed offerings would find their ultimate fulfillment in Jesus, the perfect worshiper. So, what should biblical worship look like for redeemed people today?

Matthew Westerholm gives churches a unified vision for worship by studying its different expressions throughout salvation history. First, he presents a biblical theology of worship from Genesis to Christ. Next, Westerholm defines proper worship as acknowledging God’s creating power, generous faithfulness, and purposeful commission. Finally, he offers readers practical guidance about where, when, and how to worship today. Written to encourage the entire congregation, this book celebrates how Christ’s atoning work transforms worship from ritualistic obligation to joyful expression.

  • Redemptive-Historical Study: Offers a Christ-centered look at Old Testament practices, including sacrifices, priesthood, festivals, and applies them to our lives today
  • Applicable: Inspires a biblical model for worship, in church and personal life
  • An Excellent Gift for Scholars, Pastors, and Worship Leaders

Author:

Matthew Westerholm

Matthew Westerholm serves as professor of church music and worship at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Westerholm also served as pastor for music and worship at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Minneapolis. He is a member, elder, and worship volunteer at Sojourn East Church in Louisville, Kentucky. He and his wife Lisa have raised three sons.

Product Details

Format: Paperback
Page Count: 128
Size: 5.25 in x 8.0 in
Weight: 5.0 ounces
ISBN-13: 979-8-8749-0567-5
ISBN-UPC: 9798874905675
Published: November 17, 2026

Table of Contents

Dedication
 
Chapter 1: Difficulties and Definitions
Chapter 2: The First Son: Adam
Chapter 3: The National Son: Israel
Chapter 4: The Royal Son: Solomon
Chapter 5: The Perfect Son: Jesus
Chapter 6: The How of Worship: Principles and the Person of Christ
Chapter 7: The When of Worship: The Already and the Not Yet
Chapter 8: The Where of Worship: The Universal and the Local
Chapter 9: Worship’s Big Finale
 
Acknowledgments