I've always been a big propenent of choosings songs that either teach us about who God is or at least give us a language with which to praise/approach him. Those who know me could argue that I am guilty of emphasizing the text over the tune. Perhaps that is because in the Reformed tradition the Word has always been given primacy in the worship of God's people; not the Eucharist and not the music. That's an important value for me. I am always telling the worship team of my church that music is part of what we do but not the heart of what we do. But in recent weeks I was reminded of that passage in 1 Samuel 16:16 where Saul's servants said, "Let our lord now command your servants who are before you to seek out a man who is skillful in playing the lyre, and when the evil spirit from God is upon you, he will play it, and you will be well." Other passages talk about musicians who prophesied with their instruments (cf. 1 Chron. 25:1). In our corporate worship gatherings we often use guitar solos, long turnarounds, and improvisational sections that are instrumental in nature to lead in worship. There was a time when I would have felt the need to make apologies for that, but not anymore. Scripture warrants and encourages, I believe, texts that teach and tunes that inspire.
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People
- Bob Kauflin
Bob Kauflin is a consistently strong voice for worship reformation. He's a remarkable worship leader, musician, and pastor within the Sovereign Grace network of churches. - Stuart Townend
This is one of the most outstanding, hymn writers of today. - Paul Baloche
Paul has the unique ability of marrying singable melodies with simple, but thoughtful lyrics. - West Breedlove
Wonderul friend and excellent leader in worship
Books
John M. Frame: Worship in Spirit and Truth
I had the privilege of taking a class with this brilliant scholar and musician. I appreciate so much his holistic and helpful analysis of biblical worship.N.T. Wright: Simply Christian : Why Christianity Makes Sense
I haven't quite made it all the way through this book. What I have read, however, is excellent. At the very least, N. T. Wright has helped me understand what my starting point should be in presenting the gospel to people in a postmodern culture.Arthur G. Bennett: The Valley of Vision: A collection of Puritan Prayers & Devotions
Reggie Kidd: With One Voice
This is an excellent resource for any pastor or leader in worship. With theological insight, passion, and profundity Kidd addresses the subject of biblical worship from a uniquely Christ-centered perspective.
Welcome back to the blogosphere.
Your "wonderul" friend,
west.
Posted by: west | March 20, 2007 at 03:30 PM
Well said . . . we need eloquence in "both" languages, for they speak to us in different ways. When words and melodies honor one another they are a tremdendous force in the transformation of God's people.
I count it a priviledge to serve The Lord Jesus with you!
Posted by: Lana | March 21, 2007 at 05:50 AM
WHEN WORDS FAIL US, WE CAN OFTEN FIND UNSPOKEN WORSHIP AND EVEN COMFORT FROM A FAMILIAR MELODY OF PRAISE. WE CAN'T EVEN IMAGINE THE IMPACT OF GOD'S MUSIC WELL PLAYED. IT IS A TREMENDOUSLY POWERFUL INSTRUMENT TO THE HEART.
Posted by: Sharon | March 27, 2007 at 02:51 PM