This week we look at the curious episode of the entrance of the ark of the covenant into Jerusalem, accompanied by great fanfare. The fanfare includes a great host of singers and dancers, and King David becoming undignified in his worship and celebration, much to the shock of his wife (and Saul’s daughter), Michal. What does it mean to show honor to the King of all kings with our lives, no matter who we are?
(2 Samuel 6)
Sermon Outline
David said to Michal, “It was before the LORD, who chose me rather than your father or anyone from his house when he appointed me ruler over the LORD’s people Israel—I will celebrate before the LORD. I will become even more undignified than this, and I will be humiliated in my own eyes. (2 Samuel 6:21-22)
Giannis Antetokounmpo danced like nobody was watching after winning the 2021 NBA Championship
- Definition of undignified
- The background of the biblical story (from David killing Goliath through Saul’s persecution and David attempt to return the ark to Jerusalem)
- David’s first act as king was an act of worship
The Ark symbolized God’s presence amongst His people
- Uzzah was killed for touching the ark
- David was afraid to go further
- The ark stayed at Obed-Edom’s house for 90 days
David gets a second chance
- God is a God of second chances
- You too can be restored no matter what mistakes you have made
Be watchful of Michal Moments
- The caution of having a cold heart
- David danced for the Lord not for applause of people
Invitation to be an undignified worshipper
- Worship God with your hands, heart and head
- Read Psalm 150
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Why do you think David’s worship was described as “undignified”? What does this say about his relationship with God?
- How do we sometimes confuse dignity with spiritual maturity in worship settings? In what ways can routine or familiarity with spiritual things dull our sense of reverence, like with Uzzah?
- What does Michal’s response reveal about how pride or tradition can harden the heart toward worship?
- How have you seen others express passionate worship, and how did it make you feel?
- Why do you think God blesses undignified worship when it comes from a heart of humility?
- What is the difference between performing for people and worshiping for God? How do we guard our motives?
- How might your small group create a culture that encourages both truth-filled and Spirit-led expressions of worship?
- Have I ever held back my praise out of fear of people’s opinions? What would it look like to worship with freedom?
- Do I carry any “Michal moments” in my heart—judgments, coldness, or pride that has blocked my worship?
- Where do I need a second chance with God? How can I respond like David—with repentance, reverence, and rejoicing?
DIG DEEPER
- Worship Freely This Week: Choose one song and worship privately with full expression—raise hands, sing loud, kneel, clap your hands—whatever it takes to be undignified before God.
- Repent of a Michal Moment: Write down a time when you judged someone else’s worship or held back yours. Confess it to God and ask for a soft heart.
- Revisit the Ark: Spend 15 minutes meditating on what the Ark symbolized—God’s presence, provision, and guidance—and thank God for each.
- Sacrifice Every Six Steps: Pick something routine (e.g., walking to work, preparing a meal) and pause every few steps or moments to thank or praise God.
- Public Praise Challenge: Share a short testimony of God’s goodness in a public space (social media, small group, or work break room)—not for attention but to give God glory.
- Read and Memorize Psalm 150.