Formality, as defined by being in accordance with rules, carries significant weight in various contexts, from sports to worship. In the realm of sports, the National Football League enforces strict rules on appearance and conduct, fining players for sloppy attire and improper behavior, and even terminating a line judge for projecting the wrong image due to being overweight. This demonstrates a high respect for the rules governing the game and the image it projects. In contrast, there is often a lack of compunction about showing disrespect to the Great God in worship. God Himself is the Author of formality, the Creator and Ruler who sets the rules for worship, establishing its formal nature. He is present at services, and it is our responsibility to honor Him by submitting to His standards. As the Fountain of Living Waters, the Tree of Life, and the Giver of every good gift, He demands a reverence that aligns with His holiness, majesty, and dignity. Human nature, however, pulls toward casual informality and disorder, a tendency akin to the second law of thermodynamics where material things inexorably degenerate. This pull must be resisted to prevent moral and spiritual chaos within the church, where doubts and confusion can lead to division and disorganization. God organizes His church to counter this randomness, and it is our choice to submit to His order. Formality in worship is not negotiable, as seen in historical examples where deviations from God's formal arrangements resulted in severe consequences. God has established specific ways to approach Him, with conditions and rules for dress and decorum that must be followed. Even in the arrangement of the Israelite camp, everything was done formally according to His instructions, with tribes and priests positioned to guard against unauthorized access, reflecting the seriousness of approaching His presence. Our summons to appear in God's sanctuary is a tremendous privilege, one that comes with standards set by Him. We must strive to meet these conditions, ensuring that our outward appearance and conduct reflect the reverence due to Him. God is concerned with the whole person, desiring that our external presentation honors His name and way of life, just as our internal state should align with His will.

The Bible shows that God is the Author of formality and decorum, both of which are aspects of His holiness. Formality, in accordance with rules, is essential when we are summoned to appear before Him, as these occasions are not mere invitations but commands carrying legal strength. God, as the host, sets the standards for dress and conduct during these holy convocations, reflecting His dignity, majesty, and power. To be holy includes a sense of cleanliness and purity, making one acceptable in God's presence, while a lack of formality can render one unclean and unacceptable. We are commanded to adhere to the patterns of dedication, reverence, and dignity in His presence, as seen in the solemn assemblies described in Scripture. The purpose of an occasion, such as appearing before God to be instructed, determines the decorum and rules to be followed. Whether gathered in small numbers or alone, if assembled in His name, Christ is present, making it a formal occasion that demands dignity and deep respect. Even in personal settings, such as listening to services over the phone or computer, the formality of the occasion must be honored, ensuring that distractions are minimized and proper reverence is shown. Historically, respect for formality was evident in practices like standing during the reading of God's word or responding with proper etiquette in various settings. Today, however, there is a tendency to disregard such standards, attempting to approach God on our own terms rather than His. This lack of formality can bring shame, as it dishonors God and fails to recognize His greatness. Teaching respect for His office and maintaining self-control during services is crucial, as it reflects our understanding of our place before Him and our commitment to honor Him through our conduct and dress.