3. Build worship on a holistic value set.
Here is where values come in. They spring from your worship philosophy. When we in the Vineyard family (my church movement) talk about worship, words like “intimacy with God,” “accessibility,” “integrity,” “cultural connection” and “kingdom expectation” come to the fore. Not all worship movements approach worship with all of these same values before them.
What are your church’s values? Phrases like “equipping the saints” and words like “simplicity,” “healing” and “mission” are used when we in the Vineyard family talk about worship. God is the subject of the worship sentence is one of our mantras. We are the objects of his love (Jn. 4:19). Songs are a place we go to meet with God. But life is a place we go to partner with God. Think holistically and make a big deal out of your values; it changes the music.
4. Choose a worship leader with both heart and skill.
You are praying for someone who has a passion to grow in Christ and the basic musical skills it takes to lead worship, attract musicians, and build arrangements and bands. Logistic skills are vital for scheduling, and pastoral skills for keeping the team on track.
5. Get your worship leader visiting churches.
By osmosis, values seep in. Name your worship values, then expose your worship leader to those values in other communities as often as possible. Immersion is best for a season, if possible. In the Vineyard, it’s the way we do it. Bring in role models as well. It’s worth it.
6. Get your worship leader studying.
They need skill, values, ministry and even theological input. We can’t leave a worship leader just to the making of music and the creating of experiences. It’s not enough. They are as visible as you in pastoring the community in worship. Care for them; lead them. (I developed this for that very purpose.)
7. Remember that what you have is enough.
Worship music that sounds good can open people to God in beautiful ways. Don’t be in a rush to gather a crowd of musicians. The music will just sound bad. Keep the bar high, work with the instruments you have, and help those sound great.
8. Embrace that an acoustic band is cool today.
Like the “what you have is en0ugh” line above, this tip reminds us that “acoustic” is always an “in” sound—leverage it to create an alternative vibe to the rockfest many churches try to recreate. Use pads and loops to fill out acoustic sounds. And buy a cajon. My goodness. A cajon.
