The Gift and Necessity of Family Worship

This month’s article focuses on the necessity and importance of family worship. As believers, worship should not only happen in the church building — it should also flourish within our homes. Worshiping together as a family is one of the most meaningful ways we can demonstrate the value of God to our spouses, children, and households. I hope this article encourages you and gives you practical steps for cultivating worship at home.

Why Family Worship Matters

Family worship should be a regular part of every Christian household. And while families look different — some are husband and wife, others include children, and some believers live alone — everyone can participate in this practice.

• Husbands and wives can meet together for prayer and Scripture.
• Parents with children can gather the whole family at a set time.
• Singles can have personal worship or meet with a believing friend or small group.

The form may vary, but the calling remains.

A Biblical Foundation

Scripture affirms the importance of worship within the home:

• Deuteronomy 6:4–7 — Parents are commanded to diligently teach God’s Word to their children.
• Joshua 24:15 — Joshua declares, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” implying his leadership in guiding his household spiritually.
• 1 Peter 3 — Peter encourages husbands and wives to share in prayer together.

From the Old Testament to the New, the Bible consistently points to households growing together in the knowledge and worship of God.

A Witness from Church History

Church history echoes this emphasis. Many of the great leaders of the faith — Jonathan Edwards, Charles Spurgeon, Martin Luther, and others — strongly encouraged daily, habitual family worship. Their writings highlight how God uses simple, consistent practice to shape families in Christlikeness for generations.

How to Practice Family Worship

Family worship is beautifully simple. You don’t need hours of preparation or special materials. It involves three basic steps:

1. Read

Choose a short passage of Scripture. Read it aloud and discuss it briefly. Parents can ask age-appropriate questions or invite children to ask their own.

2. Sing

Sing one hymn or worship song together. This can be a modern song, a classic hymn, or even a simple chorus.

3. Pray

Close in prayer. Anyone can pray — rotate who reads, who chooses the song, and who prays to keep participation engaging.

Consistency matters more than complexity. Even ten minutes can have lifelong impact.

A Glimpse Into Our Family Rhythm

In my own home, our family worship has been a source of joy and growth. Over the course of a year, we work through portions of the Old and New Testaments, complete two Bible studies, read a Christian book together, and go through an Advent devotional. These moments deepen our relationships, ground us in God’s Word, and set a godly example for our daughter.

Family worship is not only beneficial — it is needed in the Church today.

Recommended Resources

• Beginning: Family Worship in Genesis — Joel Beeke & Nick Thompson
• Family Worship — Joel Beeke
• Family Worship Bible Guide — edited by Joel Beeke
• Timeless Hymns for Family Worship — Joni Eareckson Tada & Bobbie Wolgemuth
• Family Worship — Donald S. Whitney

Soli Deo Gloria!
Ethan Fleischer
Lead Professor