A Soldier Inside the Worship Wars

One of the reasons worship music is such a hot topic today is because of how powerfully it can be abused. It can, with the same exact instruments, be utilized to engage people in emotional manipulation and carnality just as, if not easier, than it can be true praise and a beautiful reminder of truth.

While this isn’t a conversation on what songs from what movements to do or not, there is definitely a mandate for us to be discerning and utilize our Christian freedom under conviction to make the wisest decisions. As modern worship leaders, I believe it is definitely an ongoing tension to manage rather than a problem to solve. I personally have my own convictions on certain songs and movements, but my point is that my decisions on these things will directly impact God’s people at my church. For worship leaders, some of our congregation will want a more stringent approach, and some will want a more liberal approach - but the truth remains: You are the arbiter for theological truth through song in your church. Be that arbiter - and how?

Know the Word.

There is a massive difference between memorizing the Word, and knowing what it means. Growing up I could quote all kinds of verses for you, but I never had any clue what they meant. Many Christian movements are in this exact predicament, which is why a lot of the resources we have access to become so controversial, and for good reason. Now, it’s not all bad, but if we don’t find ourselves wrestling with the content being put out by modern Christian culture on a case-by-case basis, I would argue we simply aren’t doing half the job.

My encouragement to you, dear worship leader in Christ’s Church - love the truth more than the music. We ought to be compelled by the fear of God and His truth for the body rather than the pressure to create an emotionally compelling and musically excellent experience. Find that the power is not in the musical dynamics, but in the beauty of the gospel being sung in unity. By all means use the lights, use the guitars, use the drums, use the tracks - but use them to point to what’s greater than the songs. Trade what’s shiny for what’s lasting. We HAVE TO make absolutely certain every week that the worship we are leading for God’s people is absolutely rooted in and can be defended by His truth.

Be careful. Eyes open. Hold the line.