Many books and articles have been written around this simple passage. As I read through it for the 1000th time it finally hits me...all Jesus is saying is, "people can worship me wherever they are"..."if they are sincere in their worship and it is true, it is valid worship". You don't have to be on a mountain side or in a church building. There is no holy structure where worship takes place. Worship happens when we give glory and honor and praise to the Lord. Wherever we show His worth, He is worshipped.
The Jews and the Samaritans made a big deal of the place of worship. Jesus clears things up by stating worship cannot take place merely in a building or set place. It takes place in the hearts of those who know Him and love Him. Jesus himself worshipped the Father wherever He was.
It's time we quit focusing on our "Houses of Worship" and realize that Jesus clearly made it a point to say that these "places" would fade away. My religious background stressed in the importance of worship in the church. Jesus said that would pass away. Why is it that Jesus said it 2000 years ago and we still can't let go and heed His will?
Experiencing Worship, The Study