Theology of Worship? February 9, 2009
Posted by Dan R. Dick in Church Leadership, Congregational Life, The United Methodist Church.Tags: Church Leadership, The United Methodist Church, worship
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A few year’s ago, I attended worship at a hot, new, up-and-coming congregation situated in a strip mall, eschewing anything smacking of “traditional” church (at least in The United Methodist system). We sang a lot of ‘contemporary’ tunes, saw a ‘post-modern’ dramatic interpretation of scripture (in mime and ‘liturgical’ dance) and heard a very funny ‘message’ that neglected to mention God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit. The only prayer offered during the service instructed us to “Leave here and be the change you want to see,” at the very end, before the band broke into a hard-rock anthem guaranteed to blast people out the doors. I had a chance to talk with the pastor and worship leader over lunch, and I asked the question, “So, what is your theology of worship?” The pastor scrunched up his brow and said, “What do you mean by that?” I explained, “what are the underlying beliefs and motivations about God and the worship of God that shape and inform what you offer as leaders?” The worship leader chimed in, “We don’t really think that way. Worship is about giving people a memorable experience.” The pastor added, “Our theology of worship is engage, inspire, entertain, and excite.”
