The Greek word latreia means religious service or divine worship — particularly the cultic service rendered to God, whether in the temple or in the life of the believer. It is used for the service of the Jewish temple system and, in its most expansive use, for the totality of Christian life as an act of worship to God.
Romans 12:1 — 'present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God — this is your true and proper worship (logiken latreian)' — is the fullest expression of latreia in the New Testament. Paul redefines worship from temple ritual to total life consecration. The body itself, daily offered to God in obedience, is the sanctuary of the new covenant. This does not eliminate the importance of gathered worship but expands it: all of life is liturgy. John 4:23-24's 'worship in Spirit and in truth' moves in the same direction — the location of worship shifts from temple to transformed heart. The author of Hebrews uses latreia to contrast the Levitical temple service with the better service offered through Christ's priestly ministry.