Casualness in worship dishonors God, because everything, including how we come before Him on the Sabbath, is to be done to His glory (I Corinthians 10:31), and true worshipers worship the Father in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). Informality creeps in slowly: dress becomes lax, people eat and drink through services, and in small groups or home services some even attend in pajamas. Children then learn from their parents' example that worship is no different from watching TV. Leaders and parents share responsibility for failing to teach reverence. The world's churches have embraced non-traditional services, supposedly to attract and keep young adults, but this is unbiblical, since no one comes to Christ unless the Father draws him (John 6:44). The church is for those God has called, not a recruiting center. Entertainment, sports, and a relaxed atmosphere draw people for the wrong reasons, so they leave when the novelty fades. Casual indifference is the lukewarm attitude Christ found repugnant in Laodicea (Revelation 3:15), and it reflects a rebellious, pleasure-addicted society. Casual worship also tells people that God is like us and exists to make us happy, but God is not like us. We are the ones to be transformed into His image (Romans 12:2; II Corinthians 3:18), called through sanctification and belief in the truth, and told to hold fast the traditions (II Thessalonians 2:13-15). Lasting commitment comes from God's calling and His doctrines, producing deep love for Him, not from social activities.

In the United States, a significant shift has occurred over the decades, transforming formality into informality across various aspects of life. This change is evident in everyday conduct and societal norms, where rapid information flow through modern travel and electronic communication accelerates the pace of cultural shifts. Historically, such changes often trend downward in quality, as formality gives way to informality, politeness to impoliteness, and discipline to recklessness. Unless strongly resisted, these shifts eventually redefine a culture's normal standards. A clear example of this decline in formality is seen in attire at public events. In the twenties and thirties, fans at major league baseball games dressed formally, often in suits with white shirts and ties. By 1947, attire had shifted to nice casual, and today, it has become extremely informal, often downright sloppy. This change in clothing signals a lessening of respect toward each other and an increasing disregard for others' opinions, reflecting a tendency toward self-centeredness. This decline in respect and formality extends beyond everyday interactions into sacred settings. In some scattered congregations, members dress very informally for Sabbath services, sending clear signals of forgotten reverence in the presence of God. Additionally, some cannot go through an entire service without a cup of coffee, which is seen as equally disrespectful as inappropriate attire. These actions raise the question of whether individuals truly recognize the level of respect required when coming before Him in a formal church setting.

Many in society seem to feel no compunction about showing disrespect for the Great God in their supposed worship of Him. There is a constant tendency in human nature to degenerate toward casual informality, a pull that must be resisted to avoid moral and spiritual chaos. This informality is evident in the way some dress and act, allowing the world to wedge its way into their behavior, reflecting a lack of dignity and decorum. Observations of American behavior during solemn events, such as the anniversary of September 11, reveal a lack of respect through inappropriate attire and actions, like wearing gaudy tee-shirts and behaving casually at memorial ceremonies. Such slovenly exhibitions are an affront to the occasion and to those honored. Similarly, the casualness displayed by some at Senator Paul Wellstone's funeral, turning it into a political rally, offended many, showing a disregard for the event's solemnity. Human nature pulls individuals to break rules for personal pleasure, leading to disorder and disorganization within the church. As confusion builds, divisions occur, and random informality dominates, scattering the body. This pull toward degeneracy must be constantly maintained against, or chaos inevitably results. Even during sacred occasions like the Feast of Tabernacles, informality can manifest through over-indulgence in food or casual approaches to the event's purpose. Such behavior raises questions about whether it truly honors God or fits into keeping a Feast unto the Lord. Prosperity and the freedom to spend can wear down inhibitions and self-discipline, leading to a lack of focus during services. The Christian world often practices a principle of ignoring God's law, reasoning that any day will do for worship because God is only concerned with the heart. This leads to sloppy informality in worship services, dress, and decorum. However, God is concerned with the whole person, including the witness made through outward appearance and behavior, reflecting His way of life and name.