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2 Samuel 6:14 (Misinterpreted Scriptures)

And David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was girded with a linen ephod.

Misinterpretation: This Scripture is often used to tell people that there is something wrong with their spiritual life (usually pride) if they do not dance during worship.

Facts: There is nothing wrong with dancing in worship. As a matter of fact, dancing as a form of worship to the true God has a long, long heritage. It dates at least back to the Israelite exodus from Egypt, when Miriam, the sister of Moses, led some of the women of Israel in dance (Ex. 15:20). However, just because David danced does not mean that people have to dance.

The problem with the UPC presentation of David’s dance is that they often say that if a person refuses to dance during worship then something is wrong with their spiritual walk. If this is true, then we all should have to wear linen ephods to truly worship the Lord. After all, that’s what David was doing!

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3 Responses to 2 Samuel 6:14 (Misinterpreted Scriptures)

  1. Jeff Fisher

    Brother,
    You are right; we do not have to dance before men… even David made it clear that he was not dancing before men, as for them to see, but before God. It was a beautiful sacrifice of humility for the new king. It is a shame that men will peer upon others to judge their worship. But I will say, that sometimes we do strange things that enable us to get past the flesh and really connect with God. If dancing does that, fine; if kneeling, great….but just to reach into the holy place and experience his presence is worth anything.
    All the Best on your walk!

  2. Bernie Yeater

    Could someone dance and truely not be converted by God’s Grace? Shouldn’t we focus on what is really importaint? I have no problem with somebody dancing in a service, but lets get the donkey in front of the cart. Do we go to church so we can practice our dancing skills?

  3. Rev. Josh Sparks

    I too was raised in the UPC and was an Apostolic minister for nearly 13 years of my 17 years in Ministry. This is a widely misquoted scripture by many. And so many I have ministered to have left church thinking there was something terribly wrong with them because they were not as vocal in their worship or did not dance and run the isles. I know many great saved folks who have not shouted and dance and ran but they are saved.

    The Apostle Paul in his second letter to Timothy the 4th chapter and the 2nd verse, He said “Preach the Word” not ones opinion. Lets love the Word of God enough ti just preach the word. It will really change people.

    In His Grip,
    Rev. Josh Sparks.

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