The Worship Answer Man

I get a lot of email from worship leaders around the world, asking my opinion regarding worship topics, both practical and personal. Although they are just my opinions, sometimes the Lord uses them to bring revelation. (He is a gracious God!) So, I've decided to share questions and answers on this page. If you have a question, write me at:

worshipquestions@musiken.info

I will not print names or your location unless you ask me to. I will also edit out anything that would give away your identity or be slanderous to others. Also, unlike other "answer men", I am open to correction.

Selected Letters and Responses

Worship Music Styles

What are the pro's and con's to using different styles of music in a Sunday  Morning worship service?  Our church uses a mixture of hymns and chorus music, but is there room for both in a service?

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Hi
 

Thank you for your question.  I think most churches, especially those that are cross-generational or are in transition from the traditional to the contemporary, deal with this issue.  I have dealt with this on several levels at churches where I have ministered.  I will try to answer your question as asked and give you what I feel are the pros and cons of what is known as "blended" worship, the use of traditional and contemporary in the same service.  Don't take anything that I write as law: what works for you is the most important thing.

Let me start by saying that personally, I think that trying to balance styles to please the taste of the people is usually not good, because the motivation is wrong.  Worship is for God, not man.  Sunday morning is not a time to get "our" desires met in music, but an opportunity to unselfishly give our praises and adoration to our Lord.  Matt Redman has written a song called "The Heart of Worship" that puts it all in perspective.  I have found that when I try to please a few people, I end up pleasing no one.  When I try to please God, He blesses.

When I was leading worship at another church, I had my pastor tell me once that we needed to sing old hymns and choruses, because that is what they are singing in heaven.  I strongly disagree.  First of all, our music is a reflection of our time and culture.  Heaven brings together EVERY generation and culture that has been on the earth!  How is someone who lived and died in Asia a thousand years ago going to relate to "Amazing Grace?"  How does someone who died of old age in the 60's relate to the music of Delirious? I also believe that ALL of the music we write here on Earth is imperfect, compared to what we will sing in heaven.  It goes back again to the point that worship is for GOD, not us.  I could go on with this, but let me get to the meat of your question.

Here are some of the pros of a blended service:

If done carefully, it can bridge generations.  I need to point out, however, that because of our consumer society, where we can watch or listen to whatever we want during the week, people tend to have less tolerance for musical styles that they do not like.  In that case, the intolerant will "shut down" during the songs that are offensive to them, and often stay mad or distracted during the entire worship time.  This is more prevalent in the U.S., because we are taught from such an early age that our "rights" are so important.  We have a difficult time with the biblical principle of dieing to ourselves.

Next point: It allows us to rediscover some good music from past generations.  This is especially effective if the old songs can be brought into current styles and instrumentations.

Here are some cons of a blended service:

It can lead to choosing songs based on a predetermined quota, instead of what God is doing on a particular Sunday.  In this case, the attempt to "break free" from an inflexible tradition only serves to create a new one.

If the flow between styles is not taken into consideration, worship can be "choppy,"  like flipping the channels on a radio. It's also difficult to create a worship team, or band, that can do both styles well.  "A Mighty Fortress is Our God" does not necessarily sound good on a guitar, but a Pipe Organ can create an atmosphere with the song that brings the worshiper into the presence of God.  Likewise, most modern praise songs are not conducive to a traditional organ sound.

It creates an atmosphere of "my songs" and "their songs" in worship, and can make worshipping in unity very difficult.  In some churches, music has become a divisive tool of the enemy.  It's very sad.  Regardless of when the song was written, or if we call it a hymn or a chorus, it needs to draw and lead people into the presence of God and give the Lord glory.  How sad when we turn it into a point of selfishness.

So, do I think there is room for multiple styles in a service?  To make it work and still make sure the focus is on the Lord is very difficult.  In our church, I think we might have done one planned hymn in the past six months, except for Christmas.  There have been several times, however, that we have spontaneously gone into an unplanned hymn when it worked with what was happening in worship.  In our repetoire of around 100 songs, I think there are six or seven hymns.  We treat them not as something separate, but just like any of the other songs.  I would say never do a hymn just because you need to "do a hymn."  Do hymns because they fit with the entire worship set, and they are supporting the "big picture" in worship for that particular meeting.  Again, I have found that if I try to please people, I will always fail.  But if I try to please God through the unique insight that He gives me as a leader, then there is no such thing as failure.  I think it is impossible to create a worship atmosphere that ALL people feel comfortable in, this side of heaven.

In all that I have said here, know that I am speaking in generalizations from my experiences.  Every church is unique, and the bottom line is what works for you.  I will forward your letter and my response to my worship leader,  and see if she has any further insight to give you.   May God bless your ministry as you lead His people into His presence!

In His Service,

Ken Sockwell

Weekly Worship Topics

I'm worship leader for our church in San Francisco and we have a church of many denominational backgrounds. The pastor and I are working on doing short snibbets of teaching on worship each Sunday to help the congregation better understand worship. Would you know or have any of this information? I'm looking at this information not from the perspective of what the Min of Music/Worship leader qualifications are, but information for the congregation to understand, what is worship, how is it demonstrated and why is it demonstrated in that manner.

I'm looking for some real practical stuff that will challenge and inspire.

Thanks!

T.

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Hi

Thanks for your question. When teaching on worship to a congregation, I always start by laying a foundation of restoration, that is, that what we are trying to do is restore the freedom and spirit of worship that is found in the scriptures. So much of what we do today in our "liturgy" is based on traditions and historical circumstances, not the Word. A good book (actually, an average book) on this topic is "Open Worship." I do not agree with the authors conclusions, but there are some historical references that are interesting. I've taught on this before, but don't really have a lot of notes on the topic. Most of my conclusions and observations came from teaching music history at Pacific Christian College.

Beyond that, I would look into the following topics to use as small, weekly worship teachings. They are not in any order necessarily:

1. Worship is for God, not us. 2. Worship is the first ministry (pre fall of man.) 3. Worship is diverse. (Looking at biblical expressions.) 4. Worship is intimate (Study the Greek word proskeneo) 5. Worship is eternal. (Revelations.) 6. Worship is radical. (Study of David dancing before the Ark.) 7. God speaks to us through worship. (Conviction, knowledge...) 8. We are worthy to worship. (through the blood of Jesus.) 9. Worship is active, not passive. 10. Worship is Creative. (We are created in a Creative God's image.)

Hope this sparks some things for you. I pray that you will help bring understanding of Biblical worship to your congregation!

Blessings,

Ken

The Practical for the Part Time Leader

Ken,

Enjoyed your page. My name is J. I've been leading worship in a church of about 200 for four years now. I attended Bible College to study music and worship leading. For dough I'm a honda car salesman. I love leading worship.

Our team consists of a drummer, bass player, keys(me) and two singers.

My pastor and I met last night to discuss some of his concerns regarding my leadership. He feels a rigidity in my leading. He gave some specific examples(i love that!!!!.....worship can be SO subjective). I agreed with the heart of what he shared and believe as a man under authority it is my responsibility to make some changes. Therein lies my problem.

I haven't been where I feel the Lord wants to take us. I do, however, believe that besides prayer there are practical things we can do as a team to change and experience more of a freedom and joy in praise and worship. I'd like to ask you a couple questions:

1. You mentioned "practices have to be more than GOING THROUGH THE SONGLIST. I agree. But HOW do you implement that with a musically challenged team? (It seems like we just have enought tme as it is to prepare the upcoming Sunday service......and yet I know we must "experience" the Lord in our practices if we expect to experience HIm on Sunday. I"m after practical suggestions here. What would you do if you were me?

2. You mentioned"the team needs teaching on the area of praise and worship" i agree. But as a full-time employee I struggle with limited time to prepare.......AND.......I think some of the freedom we're after as a team might come if I talked less....not more. Sometimes I think I try too hard- makes the team feel tense...chokes the flow. What do you think about using videos to teach P&W concepts. Any you suggest?

3. Please.....I realize you don't know me or my church...but pray....ask God to give you some answers for me. I'm believing God for a change on our team that will produce much fruit for His glory.(I'm praying too Ken)

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Hi

Thanks for your questions. I get a lot of questions, but the "practical" ones are sometimes the hardest to answer. Sometimes it's hard to hit on the right answer, since denomination, geographical locations, average age of congregation, etc. all effect the situation. I'll do my best at tackling your questions. If you need any clarification or have any more insight that might help, let me know.

Let me start by saying that there will be a limit to what you can do being a full-time employee in another field, and I'm sure this is a primary cause of your frustrations. I don't know if the church is paying you or you are volunteer, but I figure that the MINIMUM a person needs just to prepare and lead for Sunday mornings is about 10 hours a week, and that is very conservative. A leader can not do much development or training in that period of time, especially working full time also. Pastors need to realize that the church will reap what they invest into. It has taken me 20 years in the ministry to finally have my needs met by the body instead of having to do "side work" to supplement my income and make ends meet. A study of the Levitical priests would be in order for most church leaders. ( paid out of the tithe, full-time, worship in focus...) Anyway, I will try to answer these questions with "part-time" or "no-time" in mind.

I also sense some stress and frustration in your writing. This is probably due to your calling (worship leading) being hampered by having to sell cars. Time is not on your side. I would sit down with your pastor and prayerfully consider what your time will realistically permit you to do and what may need to be cut from your responsibilities until the time comes that the church brings you on in a greater role and provides for your needs.

Now, the questions:

1. You mentioned "practices have to be more than GOING THROUGH THE SONGLIST. I agree. But HOW do you implement that with a musically challenged team? (It seems like we just have enough time as it is to prepare the upcoming Sunday service......and yet I know we must "experience" the Lord in our practices if we expect to experience Him on Sunday. I'm after practical suggestions here. What would you do?

First, you do not need to have all of the musicians play all of the time. Lead a few songs with just your keyboard once in a while. It will also take the pressure off of your rehearsal time, possibly freeing up time for worship in that context.

I also see it unnecessary to rehearse songs for Sunday that everyone knows well already. If you've been doing certain songs for years (or months), everyone should know them well enough to wing it. If not, making a practice tape of your basic repetoire for them to practice with at home is a good idea. (Just you and your keyboard.) I push my team members to work out all of their parts at home. If they come to rehearsal unprepared, they generally will not participate on Sunday morning. You can not make up for your team's lack of preparation on their own. Counting services, rehearsals, etc., I expect about 8 hours of time from my members. It is also important to realize that the era of 4 chord worship teams is quickly coming to an end. Our team is doing some moderately difficult things these days. I've found myself having to practice and learn new chord voicings to keep up. Worship music is maturing, so a higher level of musicianship is being required.

You might also consider having an extra rehearsal every month (on a Friday night or Saturday) just to worship together. Make it more of a social event: food, etc. The musicians need not even play at first. You just lead them and experience the worship dynamic without any musical expectations.

2. You mentioned the team needs teaching on the area of praise and worship" i agree. But as a full-time employee I struggle with limited time to prepare.......AND.......I think some of the freedom we're after as a team might come if I talked less....not more. Sometimes I think I try too hard- makes the team feel tense...chokes the flow. What do you think about using videos to teach P&W concepts. Any you suggest?

Time is your greatest enemy here. Videos can help, but I find they are impersonal. A good friend of mine, Terry Butler, has released a video through the Vineyard called "Worship Team Dynamics." It is excellent. I might also suggest that you invite your pastor to teach your team on worship concepts. If there is not time at a rehearsal, then tape some teachings for them. Also, look for local worship conferences and seminars that your members can attend. Finally, if any of your team members have web access, there is a growing number of worship based web sites. Just do some keyword searches.

As far as saying too much, I can relate. I am a task oriented person and can easily talk, schedule, plan myself into a hole, alienating large groups of people in the process. The Lord has reminded me of the Nike slogan "Just do it." My new motto is "Just Worship." Bottomline: if we are not worshipping we are spinning our wheels. Sometimes we need to shut up, simplify and get back to our first love. (I feel like I'm preaching to myself!!)

I hope this helps. May God bless you as you seek His will for your ministry and your team.

In His Service,

Ken Sockwell

Drums and Scripture

I'd like to introduce my congregation to contemp worship, but the main >resistance (yes, led by a few older folks) is having a drum set in the sanctuary . Any scriptures, or scriptural principles, or Christian books to recommend on supporting the use of drums, strong beat, etc? I find cymbals and tamberines in the Bible but no drums per se.

I belong to a Church with about 100 regular attenders. Pastor and many others in my age group (40-55) very supportive of contemp worship. The few that are traditionally- minded, when it comes to worship, may find drums offensive, so we plan to introduce a praise band, with drums and guitar (I'm the guitarist) on a Sunday night praise night this summer. Depending on the response, we will incorporate the praise band into regular Sunday morning worship. My drummer is talented and coming to weekly practice sessions, but does not want to offend anyone (he's kept his drum kit unused in his garage ever since his wife said drums are not "scriptural") and I'm looking for scriptural references to support him.

Thanks,

S.

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Hi S.

I have been at the same place as you regarding introducing contemporary drums and worship into traditional settings. I was brought on as part-time Minister of Worship at a church about your size in 1990. I had lead there several times and brought in a full team whenever I came (drums, bass, guitars, etc.) At that stage, I lead primarily from piano and the older folks referred to me as the "paid pianist." Whatever I did was O.K. before coming on staff, since my coming was an "event" and not an every Sunday affair.

A good friend of mine had just gone through a divorce and was very needy spiritually, so I invited him to join me at this church and "bring his drums along." He was not a "loud" drummer by any means, but very sensitive to the music and the Spirit. After just the first week, I could see a difference in his life. Playing as part of our worship team was not only ministering to us, but to him also.

About a month later, my pastor called me into his office. He told me that we had to "loose the drums" because it bothered ONE of our older ladies and she had given the pastor an ultimatum: the drums go or she goes. Since I could not submit to my pastors leadership in this area (because of my convictions and understanding of scripture regarding instruments), I had to tell him that if the drums went, I would have to go. (When they brought me on, the church knew exactly what I was going to do. ) The outcome was that she left, taking her entire family (kids, grand kids, etc.) with her and we went on in worship.

Regarding drums not being scriptural: it is important to realize that nothing in scripture tells us NOT to use drums. However, tambourines and cymbals were used as rhythmic instruments for the same purpose that drums are now. Furthermore, if we say that drums are not scriptural because they are not in the word, then we must not use organs, pianos, violins and other strings, classical guitars, and most other instruments in the orchestra! Because "drum sets" were not invented prior to the writing of the scriptures, does that discount them? Should we not drive cars to church because early believers did not? Should we not use hymn books or overheads because the early believers did not have them? Should we not use TV as an evangelistic tool because television is not mentioned in the gospels? Exclusionary Christianity is birthed out of personal prejudice, using scripture to justify what we want to believe instead of what the spirit of the scriptures leads us to. If someone wants to justify not using drums, then they need to be consistent in all other areas of their Christian walk. (As the Bride of Christ, the church is inconsistent to say the least!)

It is also important to point out that when scripture mentions instruments, we have no way of knowing what they really were at that time. As far as I know, no Old Testament instruments have survived. It is possible that a tambourine was more drum-like that it is today and could have been played differently, for example. (I have a Masters of Music degree and taught music history at a Christian College for five years, so I have researched this stuff!) Also, what we call "Contemporary Worship" is really more like biblical worship than the "agricultural revolution" based hymns of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The reason these hymns have stuck around so much longer than what came before is the continued availability of printing presses and, now, electronic media. But, all of that is another topic.

Bottom line: if your pastor and leadership are in support of the move to contemporary worship, then you should pursue it regardless of opinions of the "sheep". The shepherds lead the sheep to greener pastures. Sometimes the sheep have to be prodded to move. I am truly blessed being at my church. We are as contemporary as we can get (it even pushes me sometimes, and I'm the worship pastor!) We have two full worship teams, a dance team, drama team, mime team... the fullness of Creativity in worship operating as our creative God, in whos image we are made, intended. When someone complains about something, I take it to prayer and scripture. However, I am not submitted to the body at large, but to my pastors and elders. I am here to serve the body's needs, which sometimes is not their wants.

I'm not sure how wise it is to respond to your question on a Sunday when I've been up since 6:00 am! Anyway, submit all of this to prayer and throw out any bones that you find! Your response back to me is also encouraged.

May our Saviour richly bless your ministry and my the Spirit guide you in every decision.

Serving the body with you,

Ken Sockwell

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Ken,

Thanks for the encouraging words, and sharing the experience of a "musical pioneer", having trodden this path ahead of me. After reading your words, I'm more confident than ever that this is indeed the path the Lord wants me on, as well as our church. I'll assume it is OK to print your response and share it with my drummer. Also, I'll try to remember to send you a brief report on our progress towards fulfilling the vision of seeing our church where yours is already at, in terms of contemporary worship and creative ministry to this generation.

Thanks again! May God richly bless your ministry.

Your brother in Christ,

S.

Planning a Worship Seminar

Dear Ken

Just ran across your page: very insightful. Our church is planning to have a worship conference for worship leaders and team members. What do you consider to be the top five considerations for subject matter?

Pastor C.

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Hi C.,

At conferences that I have taught at, I have tried to balance the spiritual and the practical. It's also important, if this is the first time you've done a conference with this group of people, to do some basic "Worship 101" kind of teaching so you all begin on the same page.

Therefore, my top five topics would be:

1. Worship: What is it and who is it for.

2. Qualifications and expectations of leaders and team members: spiritual and practical.

3. Worship Shepherding: discerning the needs of those you are called to lead.

4. Spirit-guided worship: free praise, prophecy, song of the Lord.

5. Song selection, worship flow and chord transitions.

I hope this helps. Each group is so different in it's understanding of worship dynamics, it's hard to come up with five topics that would be generic.

In His Service,

Ken

New Songs and Chord Relativity

We have a relatively small Praise and Worship group, Keyboard, Drummer, Rythum Guitar (no lead), Bass Guitar and four or five Singers. In the last year or so we have started moving to a style of music to what is being done in places like Toronto, Brownsville and the like. The music is from Hillsongs in Australia,, Vineyard, and some Hosanna.

Our problem has been with our rythum guitar player. he is roughly about 62 yrs old and has been involved in christian music for over 40 years. Alot of the arrangements of the "new" music drives him bonkers because he says that the musical chords that are used are not relative, especially the music from Australia. There are also songs where the chord that is being played by the band is not necessarily the same note being used by the singers. He says that is totally against all musical theory and it really bothers him.

The music that he is accustomed to is very traditional and the chord structure is very simple and he said that the Holy Spirit really moved back in those days. When we present a new arrangement it is very disheartening because he immediately starts to change the chords that are on the music to fit what he believes it should be. It really causes dischord not only in the music becaus everyone else is playing what is written, but also with the band members as well.

He is a very important part of our ministry and has been in the Praise group for many years. I love the Praise music from the past, However I beleive that God is moving in a new way with the music that is being used all over the world today and I believe that it is important that we come to a resolution to this situation so as not to grieve the Holy Spirit during our Worship services.

My Question to you is, Have you ever run across a situation like this and if you did how did you hanlde it?

Also can you give some insite to the chord relativity theories used by some of these composers so that I can perhaps shed some light as to why the music is written in this manner.

Any other advice that you may be able to offer would be appreciated.

In His Service,

A.V.

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Hello A.V.

Thank you for your letter. I think that your situation is not so uncommon. I've had some similar situations regarding people who wanted to change the music to suit what they thought it should sound like. I hope my experience brings insight to your situation.

I taught music theory at a Christian College in Fullerton for five years. I have a Masters Degree in Theory and Composition. I know rules of theory. However, the rules of "common practice" as they are know, have never applied to "popular" music idioms historically. In fact, if trail-blazing Christian composers had never challenged the status quo, we would still be singing Gregorian chant in Latin for our worship! In all areas of art, it was the breaking of rules that lead to new discovery and the ultimate advancement of expression. God made us creative, in His image. I believe the freedom we have in Christ also breaks us from traditional forms, including those that governed music in the centuries preceding ours.

I do not agree with changing the chord structures that a composer has PURPOSEFULLY put down. I think we need to honor chords, keys and lyrics. No one would think of rewriting Bach, or putting a three piece suit on the statue of David. We should honor other's creative expressions. I once lost a worship leader that was under me at a church over the subject of song keys. She would lower EVERYTHING into the same key: her key. When I asked her not to do it anymore, she quit. She did not realize it, but she changed the mood and intention of every song she lowered.

As far as "why" composers use certain progressions and what justifies them, it's irrelevant. I have found, however, that I can chart out almost anything and make it fit the rules of theory, calling misfit chords the "five of three", or the "minor three of five" etc. So someone who says that the chords are not "relative" doesn't truly understand musical relativity in the scholastic sense. Also, discords (the band playing one thing and the vocals singing something else) are a very common twentieth-century tool, even in "serious" music. Much of it too has come from the Jazz and black gospel influence on Contemporary Christian Worship (I would say that especially for the Hillsongs stuff.) The lowered third, called a blue note, sung against a major chord is acceptable in today's music and has been for almost 100 years!

Having said all of that, the bottom line is submission. Anyone and everyone on your team needs to submit to your leadership and authority. Look at Hebrews 13:17 "Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you." Even if you are not the "main" leader, when you are running a rehearsal, you are the operating in pastor/teacher role. Your guitar player should change nothing without your permission. Also, all members, whether they are 16 or 60, should be actively seeking to grow in their skill. That's a valid biblical principle (study the Levitical priests regarding music.) Being on a worship team is not a right: it is a priviledge and a calling. Those who are unwilling to "follow the cloud" are often left behind.

My advice (opinion) is to talk this over with your pastor. If he is in agreement, or gives you the freedom, I would confront this man with the "discord" that his actions are having on the team, his need to submit to leadership and the growth opportunity for him in learning new musical "sounds", sounds that ARE acceptable in the time we live in. One very important thing that I have learned is that people NEED to be confronted, less disunity prevents you from carrying out your task of pointing others to the Father in worship. I am reminded of Matthew 5, the story of removing your eye or hand, lest the whole body be ruined. Again, the most important thing here is SUBMISSION TO LEADERSHIP.

Blessings to you and your ministry.

Ken Sockwell

Struggling

Dear Brother Sockwell:

I have known the Lord since 1982, I am presently 32 years of age I had been a minister of music up to a year and a half ago. I got saved in a pentecostal church and moved with the assistant pastor and his family to another city about 350 miles away to start a church. The pastor who is 11 years older than myself, Him and I became best of friends. He is not your typical preacher. He is very much down to earth and sometimes a little more than is called for by most standards. I am not judging him because his anointing and ministry reaches out to people that otherwise would never step into a church. He comes from a family line of ministers, he is a 3rd generation pentecostal preacher. His family is well known ...and you would probably know their ministry if I told you. But for the sake of confidentiality I don't feel proper in revealing their name.

My situation is that he for years has had a struggle with fear of failing in ministry even though he is tremendous at preaching and ministering. The problem though is that he has taken some routes and made some decisions that I couldn't agree with. The routes he took were more than likely chosen from his fears of failure. BUT! I cannot say that in total certainty. It may also been the leading of the Lord for him as well. There are many things but the ones that deal directly in regards to me and the reason I'm writing you are: the area of praise and worship.

He long ago left the traditional aspect of pentecostal worship which I feel was a good move for us and we went to a more biblical perspective of praise and worship which I am sure that is yours as well from reading the web site. Our praise and worship were intense and meaningful but it didn't bring in the crowds. I don't know why. I am not an ego maniac. I don't exalt myself in my music or abilities. I rejoice that I was able to take 10 people that was afraid to sing and encouraged them that today they are tremendously talented and anointed. Their talent even excels mine by far. The pastor turned to another style of ministry of which I feels leaves the emphasis of Praise and adoration of God to a more let's feel good stuff. I like let's feel good stuff, I play it often, but I feel that it can never replace praise and worship. However that was the decision that he wanted and that was the way that I had to go. But it was and is my conviction that, that kind of ministry opens the door for things not sacred. The worship team, many left because they felt that the music was too earthy. I agree that God moves people out sometimes because they can't go with the flow. But I couldn't leave because the pastor is my friend and I didn't know where I could go. I stayed and tried doing things the way that he asked but it wasn't enough. Needless to say it came to a point where we had to part. I was devastated and he was hurt. That was 2 years ago. A few months later we restored our friendship but we realized that we could no longer work in ministry together.

My dilemma is this. I have been sitting for a long time. My heart aches to do the work of the ministry. I am presently in a church that is complacent where they are at. They already have a minister of music and most of the churches that I have visited are similar. I have a strong biblical foundation in my life and I don't feel that it is wise to attend a church that doesn't share like faith. My foundation can basically be seen in a book by James Beall "Laying the foundation". It is a popular book and pretty much states my faith. But the churches around other than the one that I helped to raise don't agree in these pertinent areas. I am not qualified to be a pastor. It horrifies me to even think of being one. I have no release. I have been praying for an answer and this is the first time I have shared this with anyone. The only reason that I am doing so with you at this time is that I had not been "on-line" before and I stumbled upon your web site. I am not thinking you are the answer but perhaps you might have some wisdom that I might acquire.

M.

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Hello

Thank your for your patience in my reply. Our senior pastor is on a sabbatical, another pastor is on vacation, so the rest of us are filling in the gaps.

I can relate to a lot of what you have been through. I have a best friend who I almost started a church with. However, the Lord was gracious. He allowed us to tour together for a few years which made me realize how different our philosophies of ministry were. Although we had a season apart, we are once again very close.

My wife and I attended a church here in Southern California during a very pivotal time in our worship development. When we first came, there were 75 people. I guess there are around 2000+ by now, and the pastor has moved on to a VERY large church in the midwest. He was instrumental in mentoring me in my early transitional days from "song leader" to "worship leader". However, he was very controlling at the time and also had an intense fear of failure. He also made some decisions, closed some works of the Spirit down, and put a lid on worship out of fear. Fear of failure and fear of the Spirit. Although he had often spoke of my role in the future of the church, we made a mutual decision to part ways. As you said of your friend:

> he has taken some routes and made some decisions that I couldn't agree with.

My pastor also felt it was more important for the congregation to "feel good" than to "bring a sacrifice of praise". I just recently left another church for these same reasons. My response to this is simple: We are called to meet the <needs> of people, not their wants. People <need> to learn deeper areas of worship. And the truth is, being in the presence of God is not always comfortable. There is conviction, healing, deliverance... you name it. I am convinced that if we try to meet the <wants> of the people, we may miss meeting the <wants> of our Lord. This is why the <seeker> philosophy bothers me so much. It is not biblical. I would rather have 10 people who are living out their salvation than 1000 who want to be entertained and feel good.

As far as your team leaving because the music was too <earthy>, I'm not sure what that means. If they left because the music sounded like the world, then there could have been a religious spirit at work in them. Our God is a creative being and we are made in His image: creative. I believe that a lot of the music of the world is meant for the church, but misdirected. (Not the songs necessarily, but the styles.) If there was never musical growth or change in the church, then we would all be singing Gregorian chant. I believe in redeeming that which the enemy has tried to steal away. So, I can't think of any style of music that couldn't be used as worship in one way or another, although there are many styles that I would not personally like. Getting the church to accept a variety of worship is not an easy thing, however. Everyone knows what they want and Americans have an attitude that fosters "me-ism", so there is little tolerance for change or difference.

You also wrote:

I have been sitting for a long time. My heart aches to do the work of the ministry. I am presently in a church that is complacent where they are at. They already have a minister of music and most of the churches that I have visited are similar. I have a strong biblical foundation in my life and I don't feel that it is wise to attend a church that doesn't share like faith. My foundation can basically be seen in a book by James Beall "Laying the foundation". It is a popular book and preety much states my faith. But the churches around other than the one that I helped to raise don't agree in these pertinent areas. I am not qualified to be a pastor. It horrifies me to even think of being one. I have no release. I have been praying for an answer and this is the first time I have shared this with anyone. The only reason that I am doing so with you at this time is that I had not been "on-line" before and I stumbled upon your web site. I am not thinking you are the answer but perhaps you might have some wisdom that I might acquire.

This compells me to tell you of my recent journey. In 1994, the church that I was a part of (full time minister of worship) closed it's doors as a result of alleged immorality in the pastor and pour handling of the situation. The next week, I went to my current church  with a Prophetic friend of mine from New Zealand who was ministering there. I instantly felt at home. The pastor and I became friends. My family began to attend there while I was between ministries. It seemed like the perfect church for me and I was drawn to it very deeply. However, there was a worship leader already in place. He was good, people loved him... The Lord began to give me dreams of ministering there. Soon, I was invited to lead worship when the leader was on vacation. It was the most incredible leading experience of my life. I became very depressed over the whole situation, as it seemed the impossible dream.

I too began to visit other churches in the area. None agreed with my philosophy of worship and ministry. During this time, I interviewed for about 14 positions around the States, but none seemed right. At one time, I almost moved to Silver Springs, Maryland, and joined the staff of a large Pentecostal church there (I am by definition a Charismatic Baptist.) I eventually came on staff at a small church near my home. It was a mismatch like never before. ( I am still getting over that one.) This just accelerated my frustration. I would sit up at night crying and asking the Lord to give me the desire of my heart.

Last summer, the worship leader at my current church decided to go on the mission field as of December '96. When the pastor asked him if he had any ideas of who could replace him, he said that I was the only one he knew who could do the job. After one meeting with the elders, they invited me to join them. The Lord gave me the desire of my heart.

Here at my church, I am a pastor, equal with the other pastors. I do counseling, preaching... all that pastor stuff. Like you, I did not feel qualified. For the first few months when people would call me <Pastor Ken>, I would cringe. I felt so unworthy. I still feel so unworthy. But the Lord uses my weakness and ministers greatly. I still can not sign my name <Pastor Ken.> In saying this, I guess I just want you to know that if the Lord calls you to some form of pastoring, there will be nothing to fear. He will be made perfect in your weakness. I am not sure how compelled you are to minister at the church you are now attending, but if you are, pray that the Lord will give you the wisdom to know what your part is. I had to wait over two years for the Lord to answer my prayers. It was worth the wait. I did not have the grace back then to do what I am doing now.

It seems I've just been rambling, but I hope this speaks to you in some way. As with any word, encouragement, prophecy, etc. etc., pray about everything and test everything. But I hope this confirms some things for you.

Blessings,

Ken

Multi-Cultural Worship

Hey brother!

I've looked through your stuff and it sounds like you have a handle on worship! My friend and I have a vision for multi-cultural worship in the specific area of youth throughout the world as a means of evangelism and bringing back the KING!

I'm wondering if you can help us with any idea's that you may have concerning muli-cultural worship re: Youth!

I'm currently working for my M.A. in Church Leadership and working on a project in which I will be moving towards making the vision a reality.

In Him,

Dan

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Hi

You probably will have a better chance at multi-cultural worship with youth than with adults. "Seasoned" Christians are sometimes tolerant of diversity, but generally do not embrace it. That is why so many people go church-hopping because they don't like some worship styles.

My only suggestion is to make sure that in seeking cultural diversity that you do not create something that is inconsistent. This generally happens when diversity or culture itself takes precedence over the purpose of worship. Make sure everything maintains intimacy and focus on Jesus.

Blessings,

Ken

Location of Worship Team vs Cosmetics

I'm a worship leader / adult choir director, who would like to know your thoughts on an issue. Approximately one year ago I moved our worship band, (10) pcs., from one of the far front corners to the stage of our sanctuary. The reasoning was two fold; to be able to properly mic, control and distribute their sound, and to have close proximity, for the purpose of their direction.

The wrinkle I did not expect, was that of some of our congregation balking at the sight of it (distracting). Upon my soliciting people, most did not mind either way, but the cosmetically concerned, put sufficient pressure on our the pastor to return it to it's original corner. For one year now I've joyfully worked with the condition. And now I believe it is time to revisit it again.

We encounter weekly musical "train wrecks" because of the distance and difficulty of the worship band being able to see me and any key or tempo signals; and the sound quality concern continues. Some of our most glorious seasons of praise and worship had cold water thrown on them because of missed cues. Well, truly, there are no sour grapes here, a little perfectionism yes; a desire to "Study to show thyself approved unto God," YES; you would agree that God deserves our very best. The staging is the band and choir is very tasteful, all concealed behind wainscoting. It is just that they are there!! I believe I need to re-visit the subject, and also that of our parishioners, that have difficulty keeping their eyes and mind on worship, and not that of a new stage situation.

Rom 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Your thoughts,

B.

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Hi

I am of the opinion that it is not always best to give <sheep> what they want, but do what is needed. The example of this in scripture that always comes to mind is Jesus and the rich young ruler. The Lord did not compromise his message and ended up letting the man go.

In the case of where to put your worship team, there are several factors that I see. (Of course I don't know the <flavor> of your church, age group, etc.) First, your pastor made the decision to move the team back to the original location. Right or wrong, we as leaders are under submission to our pastors. So, if he is not willing to try it again, there may not be much you can do about it. I would, however, let him know what you <can't> do because of the musical limitations the set-up causes.

Second, there <may> be other issues under the surface in your people reacting to the change of location and calling it distracting. It could be a number of things: Bringing the leadership closer to the people may bring intimacy in worship to a place beyond their comfort zone. (As long as those guitars and drums are over thar, I'll tolerate it!) Older folks may complain about the noise, or feel like the team is <taking over>. Regardless, I would pray for the <real> reasons to become apparent and, with the blessing of your pastor, deal with them. Unfortunately, people who have been in the church for a while often think they are beyond growing any more and resist any change. I change things so much that our people <can't> grow too comfortable. The heart of the gospel is change. The battle cry of the Lord is change.

I hope this helps a little. I think the key issue is discerning the <real> issues.

Blessings,

Ken

Do YOU have a worship question? Email me at
worshipquestions@musiken.info