A couple of weeks ago I touched on a subject of how to foster unity and cohesiveness in two areas of the local church– Worship and Media. In this article I’ll be discussing how to cultivate a bond between those two areas and the local church body that they serve.
It’s a question that I’ve read in many articles. I’ve heard it in multiple breakout sessions at all types of church conferences. I’ve read it in forums, and in social media groups. The question is “What way is the right way?” pertaining to Worship and Media.
The “way” can refer to an assortment of different subjects. Examples:
Music- ” Contemporary worship, or hymns?”
Tech- ” Moving lights, or no moving lights?”
Scripture reference- ” KJV, NIV, or The Message?”
This list could go on for pages upon pages!
There was a discussion, recently, in one of the groups I participate in. The topic was- “What level of brightness should your house lights be at during your worship service?” This was one of the longest threads I had participated within this particular group. Many had opinions that lighting had a huge impact on cultivating an atmosphere of worship- that a dimmer setting would help lessen distractions for the congregates participating in the service. Others disagreed- “…..if people can’t read their hymnals or their bibles, how would they know what to sing or read?” –or- “…dimming the lights doesn’t help people stay focused on The Lord, it helps them stay focused on the worship band”. (By the way, I’m paraphrasing). Most of us have had discussions similar to these with church members, volunteers, and perhaps fellow leadership. Typically there are not a lot of theological conclusions to these modern issues.
So, whose opinion is right as it pertains to these topics in worship and media?
The answer: Your Church’s Culture. It’s our jobs as leaders within our local church to understand the culture of those who make up the church body. God made each one of us as individuals, different and unique. Each one of us, together, form the local church body. Which in turn means that every local church body is different and unique in one way or another. We, as pastors or leaders, are called to be shepherds of the church’s expression- body, soul, and spirit. It is important that we spend time on our knees in prayer asking for Gods direction and an understanding of the church we serve (1 Chronicles 12:32). So really, there isn’t a formula that works for all, but God does have a plan for each one of His local church bodies.
So no matter if it’s haze or no haze, Young & Free or Gaither Homcoming (all though Bill is on Crowders new album- Neon Steeple 🙂 ), bright fluorescent or candlelight- It’s about where your church is and what will help you communicate the grace, love, and sovereignty of Jesus Christ to all who gather for worship. Know also that there are seasons in your church. What was once “the way” may be the stepping stone to something fresh and new! This is why it is so important to pray individually, and with fellow church leadership, for God to give you a true heart for your church and an understanding of where your church is, and where it’s heading.
I’m Playing at Someone Else’s Church!