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Commentary

Philosophy of Worship: Handling Controversial Issues

By November 12, 2010June 20th, 2014No Comments

Pastor Ken Pyne of Evangel Baptist Church, Taylor, Mich., contributed the following post. We face many issues—often controversial—when developing a philosophy of church music and worship. How should we deal with these? Ken lists several of these issues, but then gives principles we need to establish even before considering these details. He offers good advice on how to tie things together Biblically.

Issues we deal with in worship:

  • What should we sing?
  • What special groups should we incorporate?
  • What accompaniments should we use?
  • Should we use video/graphics projection?
  • How about sound, lighting, length and formality of the service, and expectation of quality?
  • What about music styles, using drama, and type of preaching?

Tie 1: A common focus (1 Chronicles 16:8–14, 23–30)

Worship is first about God and our response to Him.It is not about individualized wants or preferences being satisfied.

What is our focus?

  • Did I get anything out of it? or What did I give?
  • Were my needs met? or Did I meet with God?
  • Did I enjoy the service? or Did God enjoy my worship?
  • Did I get attention from others? or Did God have my attention?
  • Did I get what I expected from God? or Did I respond to God with what He expects from me?

Tie 2: A common mind-set (Philippians 2:3–8)

As we worship together in our cross-generational setting, we need to demonstrate the mind of Christ. Jesus’ example:

  • Jesus was self-denying, not self absorbed.
  • Jesus was self-giving, not self-centered.
  • Jesus was self-sacrificing, not self-seeking.

A sign of maturity in a believer is the ability to sacrifice at times his or her preference of worship style for the benefit of the body.

Final application:

  • In worship, is my focus on God and my response to Him?
  • Am I willing to demonstrate the selflessness of Christ as I worship within the body of Christ at my church?

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