The Missing Element of Worship
It was a beautiful spring morning and people were trickling in just before the late service began at New Heights Christian Church. Josalyn, a relatively new Christian, caught sight of David as he walked through the back door of the church. They had dated three times, all within just the past couple of weeks. Unfortunately David had decided that Josalyn really wasn’t the person with whom he wanted to spend the rest of his life, so he ended the relationship. Josalyn, on the other hand, had enjoyed their times together. She had begun to think that David would be a good catch. But now she was miffed. What a slug, she thought. I can’t believe he’s got the nerve to still come to church. She dramatically turned in her seat and faced the opposite direction.

The Next Generation Is at Stake

Is youthful enthusiasm the most important commodity to have in order for a church’s worship ministry to succeed? Some people would answer that question with an emphatic, “Yes!” Others might not offer such a strong verbal assent, but would clearly demonstrate their agreement by the way they do things.

Uniformity in Worship

Indeed, unity in corporate worship is a high and noble goal. However, the Bible does not say that group worship must always be expressed in a uniform way. Deciding exactly where to draw the line against individuals expressing worship differently in a corporate setting is very difficult—perhaps impossible—to pinpoint with any precision. If someone sings a harmony line instead of the melody, is that disunity?

Winnie the Pooh on Corporate Worship
Frequently over the years, people have asked me whether it is necessary to be mostly spontaneous in culturally relevant worship (a common trend) or whether it is okay to plan everything ahead of time. My answer to this question is generally a resounding, “Yes.” Let me explain.

Worship Leaders and High School Coaches
I realize this article will be read by people in many areas of the country. Therefore, what I’m about to say might not be popular with everyone, but hear me out.