The sole emphasis on music in worship has been detrimental. It has hindered understanding of biblical worship and exacerbated conflicts. Music alone cannot fix dissension; a healthier theology of worship is needed.

David Manner argues worship is more than music. Scripture, prayer, communion, and the arts are all important expressions given by God. But music has become the “one-trick pony” we rely on exclusively.

Scripture should stand on its own, informing songs rather than serving as fertilizer for contrived lyrics. Prayer is often just a musical transition rather than true divine dialogue. Communion builds community but is treated as supplemental. The arts beyond music are seen as optional rather than essential.

Leaders must educate congregations to move beyond music as the only response in worship. This may alleviate pressure on music alone to drive renewal and reduce music’s solitary blame for conflicts. A diversity of expressions will lead to healthier, more biblical worship.

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Choosing a new church home can be a daunting but necessary transition. What causes people to make this major switch? A recent study uncovers surprising insights.

Many Christians will change churches at least once in their lives. While moving locations is the top reason, a Lifeway Research survey reveals 40% switch for other motivations. The pandemic has accelerated this trend, with people desiring deeper community and meaning.

Through in-depth interviews, Lifeway identified three main triggers behind the disenchantment driving church changes: shifts in the church itself, unmet personal needs, and disillusionment with leadership. People pointed to hypocrisy, judgment, and poor preaching as turn-offs.

The data shows churches have opportunities to be more outwardly focused and engage people longing for authentic biblical teaching and close-knit connections. One couple shares their firsthand story of finding a better spiritual fit in a smaller, less “polished” church after feeling like just another face in the crowd.

In the end, Christians should seek the right church environment to walk with Christ and grow. In this article, Jenna Browder explores the complex reasons behind switching churches and guiding principles for finding your true faith community.

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Easter is one of the most important worship services of the year! Choosing a setlist can feel intimidating. This list is here to help. Along with included online tutorials, you’ll be off to a great start to help your people encounter the risen Christ.

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Worship is meant to be an encounter with the living God that stirs the soul. But for many, Sunday morning worship can feel routine or passionless. What’s the secret to igniting fervent, heartfelt praise?

Mark Cole provides 8 keys to taking your worship team and congregation to the next level. Cole does a fantastic job to include stories and advice to help you quickly decide on next steps. Whether you’re new to leading worship or a veteran looking to revive your team’s fervor, this article will rekindle your passion for extravagant worship and equip you to shepherd your congregation into God’s presence.

Don’t settle for lukewarm worship any longer. Discover tested secrets for planning and leading worship that engages mind, body and spirit in praise. Create services that glorify God and remind your people why worship matters. The time is now to take your team and congregation’s worship to the next level!

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Worship leaders often don’t evaluate their own leadership until complaints come in. But preemptive self-evaluation can prevent problems down the road. Here are 50 thoughtful questions you as a worship leader can ask yourself to assess your leadership.

50 questions may sound intimidating, but that number ensures a very thorough assessment. A wide range of topics are covered – from logistics, to spiritual preparation, to relating to the congregation and team. Here are some examples:

• Do your verbal instructions help the service flow smoothly?
• Are you choosing songs based on musical range versus congregational participation?
• Are you pouring into the next generation?

You’ll also be challenged with your baseline motivations in your position:

• Why are you leading worship in the first place?
• Are you relying on your talents versus developing relationship skills?

Get ready for some serious introspection. Save the page for regular visits and continued growth, year by year. Take your commitment to God’s calling in your life to the next level.

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The question of whether churches should sing songs from controversial sources is not new. Even famed 19th century preacher Charles Spurgeon wrestled with it when compiling a hymnal for his congregation. Kenny Lamm explores Spurgeon’s perspective to glean insights for modern worship leaders.

When selecting hymns, Spurgeon prioritized songs that best suited his church’s needs and identity. He also wanted to include both proven hymns and the best new songs of the day. Lamm notes effective worship combines timeless and current elements.

Interestingly, Spurgeon didn’t reject songs based on the author’s character or doctrinal issues with their church. Rather, he evaluated each song on its own merits – if the lyrics aligned with sound doctrine, he included it. Lamm suggests Spurgeon would approve singing Hillsong and Bethel songs in church if the texts are biblically sound.

Of course, today’s celebrity culture complicates things – songs are closely tied to high-profile leaders and movements. Lamm acknowledges we can’t know exactly where Spurgeon would land on this issue had he come across it today.

Nonetheless, Spurgeon’s wisdom remains relevant. Worship leaders must actively and prayerfully assess all songs, old or new, on theological truth versus associations. Spurgeon’s approach provides a thought-provoking framework to navigate controversial music choices. Careful discernment enables our song selections to powerfully reflect our church’s identity and values.

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