The Biblical Meaning of Life and the Nature of Worship
“What is the meaning of life?” has almost become a rhetorical question nowadays. Is there a point to all this? Does God have a purpose and how do we discover it? Another way of asking this question—maybe one that seems easier for us to answer, is “What is the good life?” Certainly, the prevailing view at the popular level of our society today seems to be that there is no meaning to life—at least no objective one—and therefore that each of us ought to do our best to define the “good life” for ourselves, to make our own meaning.
Worldview Perspectives on Life's Meaning
Many answers are given from the various worldviews regarding the pursuit of the good life and personal significance. Below are common objectives identified in contemporary culture:
| Perspective | Primary Goal |
|---|---|
| Ethical | To be good; to do the most good for the most people. |
| Emotional | To follow your heart; to love and be loved. |
| Personal | Self-improvement; the pursuit of self-interest; to be oneself. |
| Existential | Seeking pleasure now; making authentic decisions. |
| Legacy | Establishing or carrying on a family legacy. |
The Authority of the Creator
While all of the answers reflected may very well be good, there is a question we must answer before we can answer the question of life’s meaning, and that is this: “Who are we to say?” In Romans 9:19-24, human beings are compared to pots, and God to a potter. God is the Author of creation, and as such he has authority (author-ity) to define the meaning of our lives. If God has defined the meaning of life, then, it is his definition alone that matters. As it turns out, he has defined it, and the definition is found in Scripture.
Mankind as God's Image Bearers
First, mankind shares its meaning with all creation, which exists to glorify our Creator (Psalm 19:1; 100:3). Beyond that, human beings are specially created to bear God’s image in the world, exercising dominion and creativity in like fashion to his own (Genesis 1:28). As God’s image bearers, all human beings are responsible to worship God and obey his commands with reverence (Ecclesiastes 12:13). The highest level of meaning for a human life is found in deep communion with God, when we experience God as Father, the Son of God as Lord and Friend, and the Spirit of God as Counselor and Helper, living within us. We might distill the answer to something like this: “The meaning of life is to know, glorify and enjoy God, through Jesus Christ, and to live for him by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
The Concept of Latreuo: Worship as Service
To understand the practical application of this meaning, we look to the Greek word Latreuo. Latreuo, a Greek word that appears in the New Testament, is commonly translated as “to serve” or “to worship.” This term holds significant importance when examining how worship is expressed in the early Christian community and its roots in Hebrew tradition. Latreuo (λειτουργῶ) comes from the root word “latria,” which refers to service or worship. It expresses a deep sense of devotion and commitment, particularly directed toward God.
Linguistic Breakdown of Latreuo
- The prefix “la-” links it to people, implying communal or public service.
- The “treuo” aspect connects it to acting or doing.
Therefore, when put together, latreuo can be understood as “working for the people” within the sphere of religious devotion. In the NT, it means to render religious service or homage, to perform sacred services, to offer gifts, and to worship God in the observance of the rites instituted for his worship.
Latreuo in the New Testament Context
Latreuo appears multiple times in the New Testament, highlighting its significance in the context of worship and service to God:
- Romans 12:1: Paul encourages believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. He calls this act of devotion their “spiritual worship” (latreuo). Here, latreuo transcends simple ritual and reflects a holistic commitment to God.
- Hebrews 9:14: The author mentions how Christ’s sacrifice purifies the conscience so that we can serve (latreuo) the living God. This illustrates the connection between divine service and a cleansed heart.
- Revelation 7:15: Those before the throne of God are described as serving (latreuo) Him day and night in His temple. This serves as a picture of eternal worship.
Practical Applications in Daily Life
Latreuo encapsulates more than just the act of worship—it’s also about living a life of service to God in everyday actions. This concept reflects the holistic nature of Christian faith, where worship isn’t limited to designated times but extends into all aspects of life. Living out latreuo means integrating acts of kindness, service, and sacrifice into daily routines. Helping others in the community reflects a commitment to God’s commandments about love.