I recently had lunch with a friend of mine. Among the many topics we discussed was the premise that corporate worship provides a backdrop for the Pastor’s sermon. Our conversation naturally moved to worship’s purpose and it’s impact. Psalm 22:3 encourages us with these words “...Thou art holy, O Thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel.” KJV My deepest conviction is that God inhabits the praise of His people for a specific purpose every service. This translates into God touching lives as He sees fit, often in very personal and specific ways. Consequently, I’m intentional about not getting in His way. The danger of course is that we can drown His voice with our choices instead of embracing His presence with purpose. The church respects and appreciates what happens on the platform. Ultimately, people encountering God is the greatest proof His will is being accomplished in our corporate worship. What we call worship should be a facilitation of that goal, but how?
Most worship leaders develop their team attempting to find teachable, competent, Godly musicians. Chosen team members must not draw attention to themselves by being either under-experienced or overly zealous, attempting to stand out. Rehearsals provide opportunity to work out musical problems that could draw attention from God during services. Sound is certainly another consideration. Is the music too soft, drawing the worshiper’s attention to their self consciousness about singing? Is the music too loud or in any other way is it too distracting? What are the lighting possibilities and how can they be utilized? My friend who has been an integral part of hundreds of concerts spoke next of what he called “the show factor” and asked for my thoughts. This is a matter of interpretation. Certainly the resources of many churches have increased with respect to technology over the last 20 years offering the possibility of more creative presentations of the gospel. A variety of legitimate approaches are the result of different church personalities and leadership styles. The bottom line in all of this boils down to one simple reality. As a result of the choices our leadership team has made, is our church focused on the Lord during corporate worship? Does God inhabit our praise? If so, then generally speaking we’re on the right track. If not, re-evaluate. The same God who intends to inhabit the praise of His people with purpose helps leaders accomplish His will. Thank God!
God is good,
Tim Covert
