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Right on again Joe, this has been a pet peeve of mine for years too. I really enjoy what you share. This is not getting posted but you might want to check the wording on item 10. Blessings brother.
Well said, and true. It is really awesome when this is not the case. It is one of the many things I thank Him for when I am in worship at the church I attend now. I am watching and learning so I may be a help when its time to move. I will be saving this article.
When the worship leader does have an intimate personal relationship with Jesus and they are truly worshipping the music attracts the Holy Spirit and it draws you into his presence. It is all about ministering to God not man. I listen to those leaders . Michael W . Smith comes to mind.
Bishop you nailed it!
alot of churches think its an entertainment buissnes. ..but God is not into an entertainment buissnes. ……..church has got it all wrong….
I totally agree. Seen it many times.
The whole “shebang” is a performance. These 10 things can apply to each & every “ministry function” of today’s dysfunctional “church.”
OMG! Most of todays contemporary worship leaders have truly missed it, the DYSFUNCTIONAL church as it stands has no accountability for standards of living for its worship teams, musicians, worship leaders and its sad……Thank you for this article.
Sad but true in a lot of cases in many churches. Leadership is solely responsible for allowing profane ubiquitous methods of Worship to a Holy God! It’s not worship it’s flesh and entertainment God ignores!
100% Correct!
You are correct in your analysis of praise and worship today. I refuse to deal with hirelings, it has never worked for me and it hinders worship.
True true true!!!!!!
Glory to God! The TRUTH finally showed up! This has been TRUE for the last 45 years of me being in church… I’ve seen it all, thank you Jesus for taking on a different path…. I would not trade it for nothing; intimacy with Holy Spirit is definitely the way to go.
God is about to SHUT DOWN a lot of these entertainment centers….just pay attention, and watch God; He said it to me privately, but he’s about to bring it to pass PUBLICLY!
It’s ALL about JESUS! Thank you for sharing the truths of the condition of the church. It’s time to get back to the heart of worship.
Though they may sing well, the Alabaster bottle remains sealed. They touch the flesh but not the spirit. Let us pray for the Body of Christ to serve God and not the Pastors.
I would add that many are ignorant about worship, they have not been taught or required to study the subject of worship.
Some worship leaders use the Bible study time on a Sunday for “music” practice instead of being in the Bible study hour with the rest of the congregation.
Amen! Many have eclipsed the focus of Worship which should be Christ. Wise men from the east came enquiring after where the Christ is born, saying, “We have seen His star in the east, but have come to WORSHIP HIM”. The star they followed led them to the vicinity of Bethlehem and then disappeared – at which point they had to make diligent search to locate Him. They eventually did find Him, first presenting themselves and secondly gifts to Him. Many so called worship leaders shine too bright such that they distract from the object of Worship, viz. God. The ‘STAR’ must lead you to a revelation of the CHRIST and then disappear, so that not the star is remembered, but the worship experience with the Christ. When this is the case, people will willingly offer themselves like the wise men did, and secondly present their gifts to the Lord. Otherwise many of God’s ‘stars’ end up spiritually bankrupt as ‘disasters’. Thanks for the writing Bishop Joseph Mattera.
Amen!!!!!
I won’t say they are spiritually bankrupt. I will say most of them are spiritually lagging. Truth is that some of them think of their difficult learning experience and think the sacrifice stands for their salvation. And that is a fantasy. Church pastors too seem to be all about church music than the gospel preaching. God help us to be right ijn.
Well spoken and accurate. So which one of the teachers that these worship leaders serve with will Learn the skills to father these young ones and not just use them for their skill set and popularity?…. we have many teachers in Christ but not many Fathers. We are seeing how far teachers have brought us. We need mother’s and father’s in Christ now please.
True…Father help us all to be TRUE!
This have been the best I have read thank you for this 10 inside of worship yes it is the word of god first then the reason why we worship him
I have heard that churches today actually (hire)musicians. ….there no anointing behind that…and not only is there not any anoiting …its not right…maybe im being to critical. ..im sorry if i am but maybe GOD WILL USE THAT TO BRING SALVATION. …
I agree, I am a seasoned worship leader and have stepped into some church doors with an awful lot of great performers and,lol I have watched them render performances that likened unto many worldy bands- but when you note their attitudes in church, slipping out the back and not staying for the sermon or playing games and texting during it, then you can get not just the feel for the lack of anointing and sincerity, but also for where the heart is, and why they are really there.. However I have tried to get into a position as a seasoned leader, but churches now require a trained and educated person, rather than seasoned and aoointed one- and I cant help but think from what I have seen over and over, that we have traded folks who know how to get along, are responsible, are actually truly invested, and are seeking God, for those who have great training but no experience or true passion for God.
I say amen to your 10 reasons Bishop Joseph Mattera! I wouldn’t doubt that you have 10 more reasons brother, but it is the truth and this is a wake up call because the pastors are guilty of putting singers on a pinnacle. I am a singer also and I experienced these same things yesterday! some one calls it: The mere performance of an hour and in most cases these singers don’t have the anointing and they have no skills for singing, and what is heartbreaking about this is, after these lifeless and dry bones performances many pastors will ascribe it to God! In the majority of cases it would be more of a blessing if the pastor didn’t sanction it because they are also lying. I know of a case where the musician just came only on Sunday and stir up the emotions of the people and he was getting much more money than the pastor, and the pastor didn’t have a problem with the musician making more money than himself. Folks our churches are in big trouble with these so-called praise and worship singers who knows nothing about praising and worshiping God> However, with Bishop Mattera and a few of us who could discern, There is still hope because God have a few folks who are not ignorant of the devises of the devil. If you look closely at these worship professionals, the men are wearing tight and skimpy clothes and the women are exposing their over weight bodies. I do not understand why a Jewish woman or a Muslim who never claim to have the Holy Spirit to teach the how to dress are dressing in a more modest way than so many of our praise and worship singers! The blessings about these 10 reasons discussion is that God’s people are saying Amen and I believe that this is a sign that there is hope. We need to pray for so many pastors who cannot draw a line of distinction between the things of the flesh and the things of the Spirit.
First of all, I am SICK of SLICK. Anointing requires No High Grade Technology. That said, there is a distinct difference between singing About the LORD vs. singing To our LORD…As a former worship leader over 20 years ago, for me it was never about I ME MY…(fill in the blank) during Sunday morning worship. Yet somehow in houses I’ve gone to worship in, a constant personal narrative seems to be the order each and every Sunday morning service between all songs – this is very distracting from focusing on the presence of the Lord as it pulls attention to the speaker. I had been taught that my role was to lead the congregation (and dare I say demonstrate humility before my King) This was sometimes done by singing the first words of a line in the song (there were no automatic / power point projectors) and then just continue by adoring the Lord – Most people entered into that personal focus upon Him. Anyway, I believe adjustments are on the way…. Great Observations – I concur wholeheartedly – God Bless You Brother Joseph !!
So sad to hear this,worship leaders role in the service is to usher the people into God’s presence. Those in authority please dont let anyone to join the team if not spiritually equipped coz it wil just result to a mere perf
performer.we have to worship God and no annointi
So blessed by this word. An impactful public ministry must be a product of a dedicated private ministry to Jesus Christ.
You cannot serve your world with what your Lord has not served you with…
Such good observation almost ruined by a silly grammatical blunder, please know the difference between THAN and THEN. See point number 5.
Thanks for sharing Sir
I remember when Kirk Franklin started blurring the lines between secular and spiritual, the excuse was, “As long as he’s bringing young people into the church whats the problem?” I think he taught people it was ok to live in the world and in the church at the same time and so now churches are reaping the fruits of the seeds sown by that attitude, in a negative way in terms of what is holy and positive if it means more dough for your church.
Lol good Job Teacher
Besides being a life style, worship is and should be holy. Many perform for the crowd while we should be ministering on to the Lord. The Bishop is 100% correct. We need to get back to the basics. How’s this for basic: Without Holiness No One Shall See The Lord. Most of my best worship time onto the Lord is when I’m home and as I walk by my piano the Spirit of the Lord pulls me and sits me bown and in His presence I begin to pour out worship that’s filled with praise. Thank you Jesus.
As an author you should know basic grammar rules: “More THAN”, not “more then”
as a pastor and trans? Your trans?
You people are doing great for God; so powerful. God bless you for the massive impact
As far as I’ve been able to ascertain the word hymn is found in three scriptures and the word hymns in two. Somewhere along the line we’ve gotten things backwards. The most powerful and important aspect of any worship experience is when The Word of God goes forth under the anointing of The Holy Spirit. I know it has been said that satan was once the heavenly choir director even though I’ve never found any scripture to back this up. However I believe that he has used two things very well to hinder the spreading of the Gospel in many of our churches. Music and Politics. Jesus said if we would lift him up then he would draw all men unto him. Our Worship experience should always be about him and him alone. I remember when I was an aspiring artist I was told if I had sex with a well known male artist that I could get a record deal. Well I had a very successful career in the Recording Industry without compromising. Yet with all of my accomplishments when I was struck with Fibromyalgia it was and has been The Word of God that has sustained me through the years. Most of the time when I fellowship with various churches I purposely arrive when I know the Word is about to be preached. I still love music however now there is no comparison between my Love for Music and my Hunger and Thirst for God’s Word!!!!
True true true
Number 10 should be number 1 in the list
As long as people want their ears tickled there will be a market for such teachers and their form of worship! (2 Timothy 4:3, 4)
When we imitate the world to be relevant what should we expect.
This is a wonderful article. We are looking at Christian Superstar Singers, not born again believers who lead worship out their experience. Many of them are leading it out of their ability of being able to sing. I am praying for the real singer worshipers come back to the front and lead worship in many of our churches again.
I totally agree with this article, God PLEASE help ME and others!!!!!!
As worship leaders it should never be about us, we must remain humble and remember we are nothing but the conduit for Him to flow through. It’s all about HIM.
I truly enjoyed this article and I totally agree with every point made. I have been a worship leader and it has never been about me. You must truly open up your heart to God in order to lead others into the presence of the Lord! Lord help me to remember.
Sad, but true!
Thank you for the iron sharpening discussion. Now let’s remember to keep all worship leaders in prayer. May God truly be revealed to each worship leader so they we remember he deserves and gets all the glory and the honor. For it truly isn’t about us, but all about Jesus! Keep On!
I totally agree with this article. Thank you for sharing.
Good stuff here and sadly all true!
so very true
This is so true. Hallelujah! Worship is never about us its all about Jesus. We can ‘t be worship leaders and not worshippers this is when it it a show. THANKS for this article.
May the Spirit of God continually convict worship leaders to have a constant and personal intimacy with Jesus…
I do definitely concur!
Some of these points I agree with, but others I think are missing the broader picture.
I believe there are a lot of people that connect more to God through worship with their community than they do from hearing one man talk a about a zany mishap with his family this week.
After being around for awhile, I can easily say that the diversity of new revelations I can take away from a sermon are pretty slim.
Instead of switching it up, and making space for a wide variety of the congregation to share, we often listen to just one person. Maybe two, or three.
On top of that many pastors seem to belabour their 5 minute message out to 45 minutes.
Consistently.
I personally would get more spiritual fulfillment out of going for a coffee, and meditating in the lobby, or maybe having a discussion with friends than sitting through most sermons.
Great article.. point 6 has me thinking though, I’ve seen MANY pastors leave out of the sanctuary after they minister , most often to refresh themselves. I’ve seen MANY pastors not even enter the sanctuary for Corporate worship & they only come in right before it’s time for them to minister. When a TRUE worship leader MINISTERS (I take issue with using the word PERFORM) for anywhere from 30-45 minutes they too need to refresh themselves (grab a swig of water- catch their breath- before rejoining the congregation) I think people take for granted the amount of work it takes to allow the Holy SPIRIT to use you to prepare the hearts of the people to receive the word. It’s REWARDING, IT’s challenging at times, and It’s MINISTRY all of the time. Now, to be clear- I’m not saying it’s cool to totally leave a service and then go hang out in the studio or whatever- but what I AM saying is for this particular one- it may not ALWAYS be an issue of spiritual misgivings or immaturity.
Yea I think your article is ridiculously one sided.
All of this can be true about preachers as well
This is great. As a musician and worship leader myself, will continually allow the Holy Spirit to purge my heart as a believer. I believe it starts with the senior leaders on down the ladder to put in place the right structure. Most of all, it’s the fire of the Holy Spirit who will purge those whose hearts are centered on themselves. God, the Holy Spirit, can deal with the hearts of the singers and musicians who are divas and celebrities. Also, for those Christian Artist out there must realize what their purpose is when ministering to people. It’s so easy to get caught up in the glamor of being out front. It may be something one should seek God about and prepare for before actually going out in the public’s eye.
#truth
Performers depend on their Talents. Worshipers depend on God and His Anointing=)
What an awful article
Good article !
https://circleofhopeaudioart.bandcamp.com/
Finally someone else is speaking the passion of my heart. This needs to be exposed in our churches and the standard needs to be raised, because lifestyle and ministry walk hand and hand!
Finally someone else is speaking the passion of my heart. This needs to be exposed in our churches and the standard needs to be raised, because lifestyle and ministry walk hand and hand!
We encountered many of the same issues. And decided to create teaching tools fur worship leaders
Never read such terrible rubbish – so dishonouring of many people I know personally who totally love God and love to serve Him in all humility. Sorry that you have such a narrow perspective on many who have chosen to love Jesus and serve him this way. This article breaks my heart.
Excellent article, I do think it applies to all areas of ministry…preaching, teaching, even hospitality ..
Amen, simply AMEN!
Some of the points in this article would apply to any position of public ministry and not just for worship leaders and musicians (tough receiving correction and being idolised etc). I think the way this article has been written is potentially quite divisive and damaging to the Church where week after week across the world tens of thousands of leaders and musicians give many hours to volunteer in their Churches. Anyone who thinks that worship ministry is all about being on stage and adored should come along to Church first thing on a Sunday morning and see the band help set up instruments, move staging blocks and help serve the Church in this way. Sadly I think this article is very negative towards many people who genuinely love serving Jesus and His Church!
Insightful
Jesus! As a worship leader and psalmist I appreciate this! This is so true. Help us get right so The Lord is glorified not our flesh
Finally the truth comes out thank you sir
This is awesome
Praise and worship that is anointed by the Holy Spirit is the most powerful form of worship.
Food for thought:).
Love it! Worth the read! !
As a worship leader in KENYA EAST AFRICA. I agree with Bro Joseph Mattera I have seen worship leaders leave Churches to go to the highest bidder.I have also been approached to leave “my Church” and be given money to become a worship leader somewhere else. Thank God for knowing am not a hiring. My loyalty to God comes first! I did share the article with several friends with whom we are praying, encouraging and advocating the Kenyan Church on Facebook for revival ( WHAT DOES THE BIBLE ACTUALLY SAY….) Our group on facebook.Thank you Pastor Joseph Mattera for sharing
Amen, no one mad but the devil
Very true, the truth,finally revealed
Not a 100% true…their pastors has a responsibility and accountability to their worship leaders! It’s your fault why you allow them to play in your church in the first place…
Yessss, WOW, the article should be posted at the door of.many buildings that are being called CHURCH!! Umm.My GOD…..
As a student of, I greatly admire worship leaders. Many times I wish I could be up there on stage and suite in people’s hearts the same feeling they do in mine. The worship teams I know are so humble and driven. I didn’t know there were churches that centered their services so much more around the music than worship. Shows how powerful music, especially God’s music, can be.
Amen! I whole heartedly agree with this…
the generalization of a group is so real right now.
True
I am amazed at the hubris and pretentious nature of this article. You may want to put that gavel down
Interesting read!
Sir I think this is spot-on! I agree with every word in this article. However, I feel this isn’t telling the whole story. There is a flip side to this. As a Spirit filled professional full-time musician, Sundays can be an important part of ones income. Like the pastor, church accountant or etc, it would be great to make your living supporting a strong church body pursuing the missional purposes of Christ; but often the churches whose pay is most helpful have the worst theology and discipleship concepts or lack thereof. I recently when touring, gigs and studio sessions slow down, I’ve had to sub as a “hireling” at some great paying, worst preaching churches. I’ve sat in sermons after I play and literally have to excuse myself to the hallway out of disgust of the out-of-context, ethnocentric teaching the goes far away from the study I learned during my time in seminary. Because music, to most is looked at as a hobby and not a profession, people say get another job and go to a bible teaching church. And generally the arts aren’t supported well or valued at the more sound churches for some reason. This doesn’t take away from anything in your (well written) article, but I wanted to add the point that churches can be just as much to blame for this sad result as the musicians and singers.
Shalom to all…so long as Christ is glorified, Christ finished work is preached and sung! No problems, right?
This is a great article. I like the objectivity. If one reads this article carefully he/she wil see its not judgemental and that in my mind is crucial
Here’s an idea: how about you stop using Christianese to muddle the ongoing idolatry people like you place on the organized church and just say, “Here’s a Bible, read it, work out your relationship with Jesus through it” and call it good? Because that keeps things like Christ Covenant Coalition and megachurch networks from rolling in the dough. It keeps centralized power at the top amongst “bishops”, pastors, and other corporate leaders and keeps fleecing the faithful who think they’re being Biblical, but are really just propagating the culture of Christianity which favors mindless submission to authority over critical thought and removal of idolization of the “process” of Christianity.
How about you just point out the mindlessness and lack of creativity that comes from the “Christian music industry”? South Park put it best: these bands are writing standard old love songs and replacing a couple of key words with “Jesus”.
White-washed tombs, pit of vipers, a blight on Jesus Christ, the lot of you.
Great. These are the issues addressed at Deeper Level Conference every year. Thank you Lord for confirmation and affirmation. I love You. Amen.
Wow!! As a worship leader, I am horrified to think that one could feel it is ok to lead worship without living a life of worship unto God!
NUMBER 6 is absolutely correct !!!!!!
numbers 1,2,and 6 is most definite !!!!
I agree. But, I’ve also seen these exact same traits among “traditional” musicians and music leaders.
Wow so true and sad! Me as a worship leader have learn to always gave him the honor the praise and especially the glory not for fame not for money and not for me but all to him cause he gave his all to us! There has to be order in the church and were there is no order there is no blessings and nothing happens cause God see the game in church and he wont be mocked! Prayer and fasting crying out to The Lord cause these are the last days seek him in spirit and in true cause he knows everyone heart! And everyone would have to gave account for what they did either for his glory or thiers!!!!
This is especially true of large Black churches!
It is so hip these days to poo poo well known or talented worship “artists”. If they have a cool haircut or a boutique amplifier they are just “performing”. Yawn. Wake me up when someone wants to have a discussion about how we set these guys up to fail and UNDERVALUE their gifts and service. Most of them are barely paid. They are bi-vocational out of necessity, which takes them away from family during the week and on weekends. It high-demand and low appreciation. Those guys/gals SERVE. I am so over the attitude many of you have about the really talented ones. Why do you think they leave the church? Oh yeah…you think it’s because they are egomaniacs and false worshippers. It’s because you take advantage of them and refuse to take responsibility for taking care of them. Luckily for the good ones, the world is going to value what they do. The crummy ones just stay in the church where the talent bar is lower.
It suppose to be about God not ourselves! What ever happened to seeking The Lord and his anointing,
Amen!!!!!!!
There’s a lot of truth in this article!
Wrong!!! We are to quick to point fingers at the front line when they stubble. Look at the language is this article..’They and Them’ If your worship leaders are bankrupt its because church leadership is bankrupt. If this is nationwide, what does it say for church leaders nationwide? A donkey never gives birth to a pig. This is not new, even the late great Andre Crouch experienced this. Church leaders are willing to exploit/expend people for the fuel of their “Vision”and selfish ambition. Failure to realize that the people are the ministry. Most leaders reject the idea that when they hire a worship leader they are in fact taking on a personal disciple. Sadly, most leaders don’t want that responsibility their goal is to hire the gift for a fee (as cheap as possible) without owning responsibility for the life.
A thought provoking article. I’ve also seen churches whose focus is to attract youth replace lead singers or send them to other locations after they become “too old”. Very sad.
Great insight. In full agreement that spiritual bankruptcy is unacceptable; however, the church is supposed to be a disciple center to equip the congregants to be effective and influencial in all areas of culture. It should also be unacceptable that the church hasn’t done a good job of training biblically sound AND competitive teams. Will not get into a strategy here :), but I will say after 30 years in the system. The church MUST do a better in the equipping dept. This goes far beyond worship attendance, tithing, and Bible study. #skillsdevelopment.
Everyone is beyond with talent, but no one is born with skills, that takes prayer, training, and hard work.
I really love how you deliver your personal experience to the worship leader and members.. I hope and pray that your massage will bring something to the next level.. stay bless sir.
So true, its the anointing that breaks the yoke of bondage, not talent, if its talent, then we are just entertaining the church body. God help us
I have no idea who this guy is who wrote this article- but where has he been worshipping? This isn’t the standard in our church or any of my pastor friends churches.
Wow. Spot on. Seems like for the past 7-8 months, we worship pastors have been taking a beating in these blogs. I have yet to read an article that asks this important question: who are making the decisions and hires that have led to these numerous issues in today’s worship
IDear Brother in Christ.
In regards to your recent article in Charisma–“Is Gods old covenant law still Relevant?
As a disciple of Christ for 50 years, in the prophetic for 37, and having been graciously used by God to apostolically pioneer the first Pentecostal college ministry in Boston at Northeastern Univ., which also spread to other schools. (Chi Alpha) (We experienced a beautiful revival of Gods manifest presence.)
My hope is that the authentic Spirit of prophecy presented here builds in you a deeper revelation of Jesus Christ. i believe what is presented is crucial for you, my brother.
Behold
The Biblical revelation and knowledge of Jesus Christ instructs clearly that: Christ is the end of the old law (Rom. 10:4) and the beginning of the new covenant law. The law of Christ. The Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. Where as we walk in the Spirit we will not carry out the desires of the flesh.
Paul was not under the law.( 1Cor.9:20)
Paul said he was under Gods new covenant law of Christ… ( 1 Cor. 9:21 + 2 Cor. 2:14 – 3:18)
To be OC Torah obedient or to be NC Christ obedient was clearly decided at the council of Jerusalem in Acts 15. It is biblically accursed to teach required Torah to blood bought children of God!
God, in Christ, has made us adequate as servants and ministers of a new covenant. Not of the letter, but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. Christ has made us His letter…with the Spirit of the Living God, NOT ON TABLETS OF STONE, but on tablets of the human heart.( Christ Himself In us!)
Scripture must interpret scripture and no where is the Torah, or the old covenant law, separated into 2, 3 or 4 sections, in the entirety of the Bible. This is a religious tradition of man; not of God. Inherent in the 613 unified Torah requirements is the blessing/ curse dynamic. Christ Jesus has already fulfilled the OC Torah at Calvary where He absorbed all the curses of Torah and retains all the blessings. As in required tithing of $; it’s a sin against God and a sin against Jesus new covenant blood to even suggest the inherent curses of Torah!
We should seek to ” be found in Him, not having a righteousness of our own, derived from the Torah, but that which comes through faith in Christ.” (Philippians 3:9)
We “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ” ( 2 Peter 3:18) by ” As you have received Christ Jesus as Lord, so walk in Him.” (Col. 2:6), ——-“by grace through faith”
“Jesus abolished in his flesh the enmity, which is the law of commandments contained in ordinances, that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace.” (Eph 2:15)
“…..we were made to die to the Law through the body of Christ…so we might be joined to Him and bear fruit for Him.” (Romans 7:4)
The Decalogue has 20 explicit mentions and clear allusions in the New Testament. If we count only the places in which the Ten commandments are explicitly mentioned the number dwindles to 11. If we count only those places where one or more of the laws of the Decalogue is issued as a command, there appear to be only six occasions in the NT. Of these, three of the six occasions tanspire while the Lord Jesus Christ and the disciples were still living under the old covenant. ( in the Synoptic Gospels.) That leaves only 3 places in the last 24 books of the NT where the law of the Decalogue is quoted as a command. Clearly, Teaching Torah obedience to blood bought children of God is anathema. (Gal. 1:1-9)
The Law came through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ.
When the priesthood is changed by necessity there takes place a change of Law also. (Hebrews 7:12 + Psalm 110)
Jesus Christ is our High Priest of the new covenant we are born again into!!
i pray God quickens Christ Himself, in all His new covenant glory. To homogenize covenants is like pouring new wine into old wineskins or cutting a patch off a new shirt to sew on the old shirt.
But many say “the old wine is good enough……” Bless you Sir!
Well said Bishop Mattera. May God raise up worshipers with a Heart like David. Who minister to the Lord skillfully but with a heart of devotion first!
I love this. As a worship leader I pray that my heart remain pure and spirit lead. Its all about Jesus
:STANDING OVATION:
Church Folk Revolution
Dude you need help! You sound like a self righteous bully!
This article is just confirmation of how this could happen:
http://pimppreacher.com/post/110222204185/say-what-now-james-fortune-was-restored
Pray for them and show them Love. Christ Loves them we all miss the mark sometimes. Don’t judge God knows. Nothing is hidden from God.
I understand where you’re coming from and the concerns you are having with the trends of today’s worship ministry. HOWEVER, that picture is of my band. I led worship with them for 3 years and they are like family for me. I know every one of them personally. Our head worship leader has a pastor’s heart and provides many opportunities to grow spiritually including bi-weekly praise and worship meetings for the band and production teams so that we have our own time to just worship the Lord. We sit in two services every weekend to hear our pastor speak. All of those people have also been there since I started attending nearly 6 years ago, and faithfully attend on a weekly basis. As I said, I can definitely respect your concerns in general. But please be careful to not use photos of people that you are unfamiliar with. I know their hearts and their lives, and they love the Lord and love to worship.
This is completely untrue of the many worship leaders I know personally. This article is so pathetic and does nothing but tear down the church. Please quit tearing the church down and go share JESUS
If we Chistians spent more energy on evangelism and less on cannibalism, imagine how the Bride would look!!
There is only room for one “accuser of the Bretheren”
This is so true. Yet most pastors in worship leading is to turn up full volume to get people hype up. Its know longer worship but noise. That’s why you don’t see any signs wonders or miracles or the gifs of the Spirit moving much anymore, and we still don’t get it!!!!
Hmmmm, Wonder who Jesus would invite to lead worship.
I have learned over the years that there are many great singers in the world but not everyone is anointed.. But those that are anointed aren’t the reason they are anointed.. It’s good to recognize that
Then we should be praying for them !!!!
I lead the worship service at my church and can say I have at one point point or another struggled with some of these talking points. Number 6 however blows me away.
It is very true.
I agree 100% also I need to add one thing I’ve noticed those that are in leadership also are too controlling that they stifle the Holy Spirit. ..
Good article. Although the writer’s points are true, it has an advance assumption and sweeping generalization in ‘Spiritual Bankruptcy’, We must put ourselves in an encouraging stance rather than in a judgmental one. While some churches have paid worship leaders, a lot of them have volunteers who have desire to serve God. Some, in spite of their struggles like some christians, still try to help and fill the missing parts. It is just too bad for some who have talents, they need to be on the stage, the lime light. Albeit a lot of them have no ambition for stardom. While almost 50% of church services is ministry of music and 50% is ministry of the Word, the focus of most churches in training, resources and yes even positions and titles are for the preachers. I wish the church will not be content in just waiting for musical people to come or for worst just wait for talented secular entertainer to become a christian. Let us take part in supporting their training from the ground up like we do to produce spiritual leaders. Maybe, just maybe they can use their talent as their full time profession with no judgement from the church. The worship leaders need our encouragement.
Great article but you needed an eleventh point; filled with demons!
Great article. Food for thought for all…
Any worship session that does not turn your eyes to God is not worship. That being said, I strongly believe that the worship leader must be FIRST a spiritual leader in the church!
If there are people in the band who are not believers, but the pastor still invites them to play Sunday after Sunday, what are the spiritual ramifications for the congregation?
Pastor’s, some not all, must also share in the disappointment and let down. We still have Pastor’s in it for the “me, me, me” and not for God’s total glory and, who can I influence to get in between the sheets or who can I manipulate to get in between the sheets because of my power and position. I’m leaving a church now, refusing to sing for that very reason.
Mr. Mattera, This may be your experience, but in no way is it endemic in the Church the way your article suggests.
Truth
Praise and worship should only be ALL OF CHRIST and NONE of self.
I think one of the keywords you used is “perform”. Worship isn’t about performance. Pure worship is a lifestyle. We were all created to worship and as a result will worship something 24/7.
This is very true and dangerous. We need to question how this entered our gates. In this time of delusion we must correct the wrong pattern we have designed for the church and turnback the the pattern Christ designed for the churc. I do workshops on Christianity and the arts around the country and see more out of order , than in irder.
Thank you for sharing this from your heart. I pray this msg will convict and encourage!
churches don’t want the overweight housewife who sings her tail off leading worship anymore. They have to compete with the media culture and think everyone should look as Faith Hill, and others. When I see the overused head nods, and glory hands up in the air looking to the balcony I see it for what it is…farce.. I while a extreme lover of Jesus, and a pro bass player for decades have tried to lead volunteer church bands but it is just not possible. The talent is usually not there. I like to say, man is sinful including the and most men are full of shaving cream. When a person looks too good it’s probably a created personality and image. You see it fall time and time again. Personally while a lover of great performers and ROCK SECULAR style I prefer a great choir and Organ music at church. Contemporary Worship is usually cheesy to me. Thank God the Lord will lead worship in heaven. Viva Chris Tomlin and all the rockers! They have created an industry of fans that can’t be sustained in the local church. Tomlin’s songs are amazing but when key changed and attempted by amateur musicians at churches anywhere the art he created gets destroyed by ineptness.
I need to know what the biblical qualifications are for a “trans-local minister”? Seems like Mattera invented a position of leadership that does not exist in scripture.
( Great article otherwise.)
These people are not real followers of Christ . Because they sings lovely you feel the song but living the life is a whole lot of different story. Foolers far from God
WoW. What a generalist. If is was that easy…. Typical. american conclusies.
He’s right, but his comments also apply to the everyday Christian, who wilk not say grace in public
Jeremiah couldn’t of had better prospective
so so true
I agree. Worship is about interning in to the presents of God. Not lifting ourselves up but lifting God up. As a worship leader myself, I don’t want people to see me but I want them to see the God in me. See how to enter in to worship. For its not aboutr it’s about God and setting the atmosphere for God’s presence to inter in. Keep telling like it is man of God
These 10 reason have infected to many of our churches. It’s the truth we are constantly competing. I truly believe if we apply more of christ the energy will be dynamic.
Woooow,this is so timely.we have talking about this for along time in our worship team.God must saying something about worship and worshipers.Let him who has ears hear what the spirit is saying to the churches.
This article is a perfect example of why people look at the church and think, why would I want to be there. If I join, it wont be long before some pious person will tear me down for something I have done wrong. I believe build each other up is the proper mantra for the church, this article just tears down from its high pulpit. No thanks.
I am a professional gospel drummer, have been playing for over 4 decades and I could not agree more with this article. All the 10 points as impressive as they are can be summarized in one word; “PRIDE”. Satan was once the minister of music remember? Pride is the cornerstone that fuels the elimination of God out of the equation and makes it very easy for the so called “christian” musician to go on stage and make it happen musically technically speaking, while their heart is far from Christ and far from the CAUSE of winning souls through music and worship altogether. It’s basically a big spiritual masquerade centered around self indulgence and self absorbency. There are a few great worship leaders though, some of them relatively unknown, one of them is Matt Perkins.
I am a professional gospel drummer, have been playing for over 4 decades and I could not agree more with this article. All the 10 points as impressive as they are can be summarized in one word; “PRIDE”. Satan was once the minister of music remember? Pride is the cornerstone that fuels the elimination of God out of the equation and makes it very easy for the so called “christian” musician to go on stage and make it happen musically technically speaking, while their heart is far from Christ and far from the CAUSE of winning souls through music and worship altogether. It’s basically a big spiritual masquerade centered around self indulgence and self absorbency. There are a few great worship leaders though, some of them relatively unknown, one of them is Matt Perkins.
As a minister and musician I couldn’t agree more. There is a difference between talent and anointing… I don’t know how musicians can participate in worship service without the anointing of the Spirit of God.it does help when congregations seek to be uplifted, equipped and inspired rather than entertained.
Where have you been all this time the church needs to hear more of this in all the areas of ministry not in the music alone thank you.
Great article. If only this could be taught more through out the church world in general.
Great article. If only this could be taught more through out the church world in general.
I agree with all the reasons stated. It distills to just two sins….Vanity and Idolatry .
Yes no.2 for me is the main thing they commited carnality sort of Fornification and they thought they are completely untouchble.
This all came about when they stopped Testimony services allowing Grandma and others to sing songs pressing on their hearts and rather have Praise Leaders, who can hold a note, to sing all the praise songs. Instead of songs coming from the bottom of the souls, we have sing-alongs. We all need to pray, attend Bible Studies, and have a true relationship with God if we want to minister to others.
I don’t know where/how/if this fits into the conversation but the lyrics of today’s songs tend to be horrible. They’re all over the place or they borrow from other songs or the imagery is bizarre or even unscriptural. (Two examples of “unscripturalness”: 1) “Death is alive.” (In the Bible, death is an enemy to be defeated. It is never “alive!”) 2) “[Jesus] took the keys from death and Hell.” (Actually the Bible says that Jesus took the keys OF death and Hell–not from them.)
I highly disagree! We have a big church and band. Our band consist of members of the leadership college and volunteer that spend there time and talents worshipping God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit ! After every song we clap and cheer and give all the glory to GOD!
I’m a worship leader and you are spot on with this top 10 list. Most worship leaders leave service after they finish singing. They are idolized. They’re immature and don’t study the word a they should. They enjoy the gift without rerecognizing honoring the gift give, God. I believe we think too highly of ourselves. Thank you for helping me see me.
I just wanted to say–as a fellow musician and worship leader–thank you for writing these things. I play with Climbing Blind, a band that leads worship at Disciple Now and other church events as well as play our own written music inspired by what God has done for us. I can say from experience, these are issues that people need to be aware are currently affecting those that lead so many of us in worship. Particularly, this is a great set of tools by which worship leaders and Christian-based musicians can examine themselves–with guidance from the Holy Spirit, of course. I can say some of these are things I’ve dealt with personally to some degree or another–particularly point 9. With God’s help, over the past year I’ve overcome that. It’s always good to have this as a reference though.
The only caveat I’d have with this article is what Rashida has already communicated: regarding point 6, worship leaders and pastors need to be able to refresh themselves AND do so in an inconspicuous manner (i.e. going to a private room instead of going right to a seat in the sanctuary being pumped up, exhausted, gasping for air, when it could be a distraction for some of the congregation). I say that because that’s what I usually have to do myself. But it’s always good to be aware of why it is you’re leaving: do you need refreshment or are you leaving merely to discuss where you’ll be going to eat next? That sort of thing.
Overall, great article. And the spirit and main idea behind it are 100% on-point. Again, thank you for this. I will be keeping this as a reference to continually strengthen myself as well as those around me.
You are on point with this article.
I was in a great choir who really worship in Spirit and Truth. It was evident in all four of our CD and three DVDs Christ Tabernacle Choir in Queens, New York. No longer together. The one thing that did keep us together was prayer. A church that prays together stays together. Our music Pastor went on to Pastor another church but I thank God for his leadership and God anointing over his life. He was a great composer of words for his own songs that God gave him. It is always evident when sing with the anointing. It’s a Spirit to Spirit experience. When the Holy Spirit isn’t there then it’s just fluff!
Great Article
This article speaksv a lot of truth that is not limited to only worship leaders but many who work in ministry where they are serving others or in positions of authority. I believe pastors do speak with and attempt to address to lack of spirituality among those serving in music ministry. I also believe this pastor pray for them and extends grace and Mecry to them in hoes that their service to God will help strengthen their resolve in Christ. We as people focus on our praise and worship brothers and sisters more because they are out front. Truth of the matter is these same spiritual
Any one can praise, but not everyone can worship because they haven’t been reborn in the Spirit. Those that worship Him must do so in Spirit and in Truth!!
As a drummer (A passion for bashing & clashing) God’s put me in 4 different churches.
It’s not only been a growing experience but I feel it has also been a training in different levels of worship to bring me where I’m at now. I enjoy playing to the fullest every time.
It appears to me that the worship band & congregation feed off of one another. When I see them worshipping & praising God along with us playing, it can get me pumped up & I think to myself “Go God go!” I have a problem with the word “professional.” I think that can more pertain to the rate of pay one gets. People like that come off too seriously & technically about the way things are sounding & want to keep doing it over numerous times until they think it’s okay & drive everybody else nuts until then. They really should lighten up. Isn’t God pleased to hear us loving back on Him with music? It’s important to maintain a rhythm & it helps a lot to stay in time. I like to think as myself as spiritual. That to me goes beyond professional.
And remember, professionals built the Titanic, amateurs built the arc.
These same signs of spiritual immaturity is found among many in the body of Christ. The way to resolve this problem requires first to let the love of Jesus guide our actions. In this case praying for these individuals and setting up structure with the church clergy to not only hold those in music ministry accountable but to mentor them and be source of inspiration and true understanding. They are in fact a large part of the church liturgy to help prepare the way for the word of God. Because of this it also stands to reason we must be mindful of attacks of Satan to discredit the importance of the work they do or discourage others who are praying often studying the word and receiving the preached word. Because doing away with praise n worship is not the answer nor should be those who need prayer love and guidance.
I would like to know if I can translate this passage to Chinese and share on my blog?
How does one know that a person is so genuinely connecting to God in worship services? How does a pastor know that a musician is inwardly perfect? How does one pastor deal with a situation where a talented musician from outside the church wants to get ingolved in a music ministry right away? Who and when is the perfect time for an unbeliever to hold a music ministry in the church? And lastly, isn’t God who is in the best position to determine that a person’s heart is rightly and pure? Does a pastor know exactly that every person in his church is morally good and spiritually prepared for a music ministry? Isn’t possible that through the music ministry a person can experience a progressive change in his or life?
This is so true of any role in ministry .
It’s a joint responsibility from the Pastors all the way down to the congregation. A workman is worthee of his hire, there are cases where the church should take care of their own. That means if an indivuale has a true calling to be a worshiper or church musician then why not pay them their worth. Too many times we push our talented gift people to the world because they recognize and are willing to pay for what they recognize is a gift.
Wow! I spent the last 17 years in Nashville before moving last May. You NAILED it. I know of one “Big Name” worship leader who is a “gun-for-hire” and who divorced his second wife within weeks of reconnecting with his high school sweetheart on Facebook. They hid the fact that they lived together for two years before their recent marriage. I wonder if anyone would even care.
He who is without sin… that’s all. I see alot of religious posturing but no humility from the writer. …
For God’s glory only
Man, I’m glad I don’t sing in church anymore. I didn’t realize how evil I was.
In scripture it says to worshiP The Lord in spirit and in truth
It is amazing that many of the P&W persuasion assume this is addressed only to them. I didn’t get that from this article. I like some contemporary music, but basically, I am traditional. When I say that, I mean that the preaching of the Word is the “main event.” In too many churches, that has taken a back seat to music. When the P&W folks say “worship,” they seem to mean music. God speaks to us through His Word. That is why so many of the hymns are based in Scripture and not someone’s EXPERIENCE. When you find a song that says, ” I, ME, AND MY” more than it says “He, Him, and His,” you need to think twice before you include it in a corporate worship service. Most of all, music should be a preparation of hearts before the pastor steps to the pulpit, opens up that Holy Book and feeds his flock the food (message) that God has given him.
Weirdo.
Sadly, this is so true. I’ve need a Worship Leader for over 35 years and I’m also the Seniir Leader. I would not allow anyone, no matter how talented, to be a part of our team unless they served God from the heart every week! Before I was Saved music was my god and all I wanted was to sing in a rock n roll band. The 1st Church I co-founded built a tremendous worship team but one night I saw that I was nothing more than a PR man for Jesus with the way I led the song service and pumped the people up. It he moment I saw that I put the mike down and walked away until He cleansed my heart. Than, when I picked it back up, I was truly a Worship Leader. PTL
They have become for pay actors and put on a concert!
Love the article love all points.
Unfortunately much of what you have written is true. I know as a worship leader for over 10 years many of the better musicians church hop for pay and go where the buck is. But in their defense they have to eat as well and many church’s don’t appreciate or compensate for the work that is put into Sunday worship. Much of it has to do with maturity both spiritual and chronological. Many worship leaders are young and need some mentoring. Competition is ingrained into musicians. It begins in middle school and continues through college and the workforce. They are always auditioning for a position based on talent. Ego will always be a part of this field but church’s have to teach a congregation about worship. What it is and what it isn’t.
Being a worship leader is never easy and will never be…music is an art that needs to be perfected. However, after one has transcended the level of mastering the art, it is prudent to ensure a personal relationship with the one being worshiped. Simply put, well done music is a bridge to experiencing God but only if done in the standards of God.The furthest a worshiper can take a congregation spiritually is where they (the worshipers) have been. It is impossible to show the way when can barely see it. Again, how will you know the destination if you have never been there? Effective worship and exhortation can only be done by spiritually mature worshipers. That said, it is not wise to post judgmental comments on individuals that lead worship. simply not right.
So true!
I agree and am a worship leader. However, these all too common church criticism are becoming just that. I should write a blog about people who criticize church with no reference to scripture. My point is you can criticize ANYTHING but we have enough people outside the body doing that. Again, all good points but something’s just go without saying and we rely on individual church leadership with the help of the Holy Spirit. Imo
I dont even need to read this. I can sum em all up in ONE reason! They have never read and studied the Bible in it’s entirety not ONE SINGLE TIME!
I thank God that under my Bishop you get in the word or you will be sat down. Relationship with Jesus is first. That’s. What I want
Being involved in the music ministry is both extremely rewarding, and difficult/dangerous.
It is quite fun and exhilarating to play with fellow musicians. And God inhabits the praises of His people.
But, remember that satan was an angel with much musical talent, and I believe that Christian musicians are a target.
Much prayer and fasting should be made for your “entertainers”
Please keep them lifted before the throne of God.
Wow every point mentioned I agree with totally and because of that prayer is indeed needed, let us pray….
Very true! Worship is birthed out of a deep yearning and hunger to connect with God, to know Him more, to be like Him and be used of Him the way He wants! It is not a performance or audition of talent and skill but a move to quench the thirst of knowing God n experience His love at a level closer than personal. May the true worshippers arise to display praise of the one true God and not just come up with feel good lines; but worshippers who are led solely by the Spirit and directed/inspired by the word of God.
#Insight
GREAT article. I would say one thing about #6. We have multiple services. I do expect my musicians to be in one entire service, but not every entire service. If they stay for the first service, most of them usually leave after the music in the second service. They give so much of their time. We keep a few around for music during the invitation time.
Good word and so often unfortunately true.
thanks pastor for the add I am a worship leader and that’s so true,pomp,razzmatazz, swag, fashion,westernization,class,concert and performance is slowly characterizing our our worship… may God deliver us from ‘this spirit of this age’ and get us back to worshiping in spirit and in truth
This is also true of teachers and other leaders in the church. Though worship leaders are in front of the congregation, teachers sometimes think that their study, if they did it at all, and standing before a class teaching is all that they need. I know, I have been guilty of it.
This is what I have been saying for over a decade. Wow thanks
With more than 40 years of ministry under my belt, I can truly say that this article is right on target. In every point.
I think what is sad is that performance focused worship has become the drawcard to many believers, not the word of God. Maybe God stays outside most of these services and comes in when His Spirit detects hunger from the worshippers for His word. When the people of God come prepared to meet with Him before entering a service then perhaps we wouldn’t need all the props and pretense anymore. Worship has radically changed, you cannot deny this. The question we have to carefully consider is “Who do we really worship?” Two questions: Which are you? 1) Do I come to a meeting to hear the Word and meet with God amongst His people, the Church? 2) Do I come to Church, the building, to enjoy the great Music/Worship and meet with the people? Which are you???
Too true Joel
You stated it so clearly…Praise the Lord
I think this message should reach to all Kenyan gospel artists…..
Sad but true
Thanks a lot for that amazing article. I have to re-examine my heart as a worship leader
Having been in ministry for more than two decades & on several worship teams, about all I can add to this article is a great big, hearty, massive, crystal clear AMEN. Musicians are often thin skinned overly sensitive megalomaniacs who don’t realize that it is not about them or their talent, it is about exalting God Almighty because HE alone is worthy. As worshipers we MUST rely upon the anointing of the Holy Spirit & realize that we are leading others into worship & ushering in the presence of God in our midst.
As a professor of mine told us in Bible school, “I would rather hear an anointed crow than a carnal canary. Selah.”
What a disappointing article! From what I can tell this article is driven by an older generation that doesn’t understand the up and coming generation and doesn’t want to. They just want to kick them out and replace it with their worship or performs (which is both if you read the bible correctly). Why don’t you focus on mentor ship instead of discipline. The younger generations wants to learn. And the only thing they’re learning is that the older generation doesn’t care about them because there different. Things change but the great commissions still remains. Stop judging and start mentoring. We loose so much talent to the other side because Christians don’t know what to do with real talent. A good example of what to do to move the gospel and culture forward is to take a look at the way Hillsong gives leadership and vision to a multitude of cultures and generations.
Like Martha chose ministry over relationship, but Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet because she wanted the relationship with Jesus. This was true worship. If they don’t get their hearts right they may find themselves saying on that day “Lord, Lord, haven’t we —–?”
Pastor,they are real facts.
So what are we going to do about this. Writing articles is bringing out the truth about SOME worship leaders but are we going to pray that God changes their heart. It’s time to stop talking about change and being about change. We allow these same worship leaders to “perform” but we do not hold them accountable. That is unfair to write about them and not speak to them about this situation. I’m just sayin!!!!
This also true about pastors dont stop with worship this problem has corrupted the pay staff of the church .The problem start from the on down you got it backwards
I would prefer one single guitar player (remember the 70’s,) who has a heart for God than a talented, famous and prideful worship band.
I have learned alot from reading this.
Great article !!
Spot on. Back to basics.
The Father says He is looking for true worshippers those who will worship Him in truth and in spirit. He is looking for worshippers not performers. pastor well said
Woow ,,… great staff … the gospel truth indeed
I’VE BEEN IN CHURCHES IN MY PAST THAT THE WORSHIP TEAM IS SEPARATE FROM THE CONGREGATION.. IT’S A SHAME WHEN THEY PUT THEMSELVES ABOVE EVERYONE ELSE, AND IT’S NOT SUPPOSED TO BE THAT WAY. WE ARE ALL SUPPOSED TO BE FOLLOWERS OF CHRIST….
Awesome article that I believe is right on! I honor him for speaking the inconvenient, unpopular truth. May the Lord continue to bless your ministry.
i was wondering when someone was gonna comment on the current state of church worship and music ministry.
yes we are way to trendy for our own good……when we need people who are full of the spirit and leadership that teach and allow the flow of the ministering gifts of the Spirit.
in australia it was disheartening for me to see church allowing people on their platforms just because they were on tv…..in the olden days people were judged by their ministry background and charactor/integrity.
churches dont want to lose their talent so we have double standards. not to mention us making idols of the musicians.
and im sad to write this cause i’ve been in worships teams and involved in christian music for over 2o years in this country and my heart is for the christian musicians who are called in the music industry who need discipleship and support.
i think some musicians are called to be an influence in the world and should be paid as thats their ministry….and why shouldn’t the body bless them…..if your church has members that builds why not pay them and bless them to build your church building….. etc etc…
but somewhere along the long no matter who you are if you belong to jesus you need to sacrifice for his church gifts aside…..
we are over looking other amazing gifts which bless people so much go with your groups/churches strengths it common sense. i still dont get why churches outreach and have not follow up or place for the people they outreach too….sorry another topic..lol
my heart is to see Gods redeeming love and anointing released in all the arts…as hes a creative God…..and all areas of influence……the good news is Gods people WIN….
Sweeping statements. Same could be said about preachers.
You are on point. Worship as a way of life must be the agenda. Only God should impress us, since he is the giver of every good and perfect gift.
Seems like this author has an axe to grind by painting people with such a broad brush. I guess the same thing could be said of pastors with mega churches. What is their real motivation ? Or does everyone have to have an agenda ? And if this ministry is so corrupt maybe we should do away with it in our churches .. Oh wait I’m painting it with a broad brush. Shame on me . Shame on this author for generalizing .
Amen! I have often wondered why the worship team is not hidden behind a screen ,, showing Christ not them to direct focus on Him in worship..
True
Wonderful and very informative article. 🙂 This is truly a big help for me and my team. God bless you!
I’m sick in my heart of all this talk. Everyone seems to think that they r the only person on the planet that knows how to worship. Everyone seems to think that they know the deepest heart of others. Let the perfect worshipper step forth. He can then start casting stones at the rest of us idol worshippers. Just worship! If u don’t like what is going on go to another church or better yet go out in the woods and worship God, Him in his perfection and u in yours. I’m sick to death of these articles. Signed: just another worship leader doing the best he can.
Just worship the Lord people.
YES YES
You forgot to add in your article how the primaddonas treat the technical staff. I have seen over the years the rippling effects when the worship leader comes in for a sound check / practice and they berate the sound guy. The morale is lowered when the leader does not lead positively and does not arrive to church in prayed up manner. As you mentioned the pastor will not deal with negative behavior because they may lose their star worship leader. Your article reminds that sometimes God ministers in spite of us being there thinking we are God’s gift to worship. Excellent article.
Hi my name is Mark and I guess I found my way to this page because I am searching for spirituality that is authentic and real but the only articles I can find to help me on my journey seem to tell me the “8 things wrong with the Church” and the “10 failures of Christian leaders” etc. Can somebody please tell me where to find the “5 things right with the Church” or even the “65 peoples lives who were changed this week”? Ps: I’ve been trying to read the Bible myself & I read the other day that the Church is the Bride of Christ? I have to be honest if you went out of your way to say judgmental things about my wife like this I don’t think we could be friends. I would really like to read some nice things about Jesus’ wife.. can you tell me where to find them?
We must be as David always have a repentant heart ! Lord We Worship You In Spirit & In Truth This Day & Every Day. …peace&bless0ngs!!!
So true. Thanks for sharing your observation and experience. Let’s commit this to prayer using this article as eye opener. Lack of accountability and also emotional immaturity contribute a lot to this bankruptcy.
Performing is an art while worship is a spiritual act.
Left out another reason that worship leaders are spiritually bankrupt…The politics within worship ministry! I’ve been involved in worship ministry on and off for the better part of 20 years and I am someone who has paid my dues to get there! In my opinion, worship ministry is extremely political! Worship leaders will often get their relatives or close fiends involved before they go with an “outsider” even a musically and spiritually qualified one. Or they have their favorites they use every sunday, ignoring the rotation that they themselves put into place. This is the one thing I have seen consistently throughout my years in worship ministry!
Having a congregation stand and sing for 30 – 45 minutes is absolutely too long, especially when a chorus is sung over and over and over…..I call that cheer leading. I know a couple of churches where people hide out until the excessive singing is over and then go in to hear the Word of God.
I could write 10 points to say you wrote this article to make yourself look more holier than thou. But only Jesus knows your heart and intentions so perhaps we should all bite are tongues and quit telling other Christians what we think we know
God is more concerned about the state of ones heart than He is about their service.
Very thought provoking. We have been hearing our choir director talk about hiring a soprano. This is helpful. If they are not part of our faith journey I think it would be harmful.
I’d disagree with part of #1 (the part about not being committed to just one church). In my opinion, that does not matter. “The church” is all of us – I get annoyed at how territorial some churches become. We’re all soldiers in the same fight against the same enemy. If a worship band contains members of different churches, that’s all the better. It’s more important to be loyal to God than to a particular structure with a steeple on it.
Yes well said,the spirit of PRIDE takes over just as it did in heaven with satan,however prayer is the key and reading the word will keep them connected to the ANOINTING that is ness asary in order for them to lead the church in true worship.We must decrease so HE can increase!!!
Worship and the Word go together.
One of the many purposes and benefits of Worship is that it prepares the heart to receive the Word that usually follows. It’s the revelation and and faith presented in the teaching of the Holy Scripture [rightly divided] that has the sole power to change people’s lives. As a worshiper who happens to be a musician, I would exit to the back of the stage to receive God’s message for myself. In some occasions the Pastor would call upon me to step up to assist musically for whatever purpose he needed. If I am not in the moment as he is doing his part or detached by not being present then I would fall short of the mark. Music is not Worship. Being a musician does not make you a worshiper or Worship Leader. The Scripture also tells us to “. . know those who labor amongst you.” The work of the Church is a serious one.
Thank you for your words of wisdom. I have worshiped and praised the Lord in song since I was a little girl. I am not an entertainer. I have always sung for the Lord in my local church, weddings , funerals, outreaches and anywhere He has wanted me to sing. I gave my heart to the Lord as a young girl(I’m almost 60) and my relationship with Him is the most important relationship in my life. I have seen examples of the degradation in the gospel music industry you mentioned in your article and even examples you didn’t mention. I learned very early in life that worshiping and praising God in any public arena is meant to be an overflow of your praise and worship of Him in private. Thank you again for sharing His wisdom.
I don’t get it at all. Sorry but the points don’t make factual sense. Sorry.
Its good to know prerequisite for being a member of music ministry was
It’s good to know prerequisite for being a member of any ministry was discipleship , trainings in evangelism, and anything in between, should be rooted with the Word before anything else especially music ministry, who happens to bring the congregation to worship God, should be a cleaned and filled vessels, holy and acceptable to Him..Peace.
They should have the same standards as a preacher or a deacon….. namely the husband of one wife or wife of one husband….
I would add that most, if not all, of this stems from a lack of discipleship and teaching about what true worship is. My observation (from asking many people) is that most pastors don’t teach about biblical worship and the congregation, and even the worship team/choir, are just expected to know what they’re supposed to be doing during that time. (As well as how to prepare for it during the week – as if worship were just a Sunday thing.) This has become my passion and the reason for writing my worship study, “Worship and the Word” http://pamelahaddix.com/worship-and-the-word-about-the-book/, and for my worship blog, http://pamelahaddix.com/. I would love to see the Church discover God’s purpose for us as His worshipers! It would be life-changing and church-changing! Thanks for this post, Joseph.
About #6- I’ve helped with leading worship before and we might stay for the first service or leave during the second, or in the case of Alpha, only stay for a few of the sessions because the videos are good but the same each year. So the people you saw leave may have sat through a previous service. But some of the others make sense and it’s a good reminder for Christian musicians.
This would not happen if there was discernment within the leaders of the church. Who picks, hire’s these worship leaders and musicians? I’ve been a worship leader for most of my 55 years of age, and in almost all our churches in Puerto Rico the “play for pay” system doesn’t exist, but the truth is that the treatment as exposed in this article towards some worship leaders and especially musicians (both my brothers are musicians) is totally anti-biblical. Sin is sin. Also true that a person who was an artist before coming to Christ is also treated in “special ” or better said, different way than those, like me, whom have given all our lives to God as worship leaders and teachers. Those who reject this article or do not agree must examine their spiritual life because it’s not easy to accept what’s wrong in the church. Let’s join together and pray for a real revival amongst us worship leaders, musicians and church leadership, let us bring our hearts together as one for this is our Lord’s desire!
Powerful article.
Outstanding article, brother. The purity and humility of worshipping our Father is lost in some cases. I don’t think that all worship leaders, bands, choirs or dancers are in this boat, but sensationalism of the performance without reverence equals a taste that our Lord spits out! The congregation we lead is depending on us to help direct them towards Jesus and open a channel of love towards Him. I lead worship from time to time and I have to admit that I have to empty me of me and center on our Lord. My sin I struggle with is pride, and that is a way that I can quickly cheapen any action. We must constantly, consistently pray that we are nothing without Him. Love this article….convicting, but wonderful. Thank you for the reminder that I am just an instrument; without our Holy Father playing us, we are nothing. Love you all, and for those who are upset by this, just a suggestion; check yourselves with this! I am convicted, thanks be to God. I pray that we do nothing but the Lords bidding.
One of my biggest peeves is a Christian band member that doesn’t attend church. You cannot effectively minister to others when you are not in fellowship with the body.
How true? Well said and sometimes truth does hurt. Parents have an aspiration to show case their children’s talent. Today church has become a platform to raise performers.
Just because you see people up on stage that don’t look like you, don’t worship like you, and don’t fit your mold, don’t sing your songs, does not make them “superstar” singers. this is a horrible article. Not all the facts are put out here. Poor perspective. Can’t wait to hear more from you 🙂
Judge not and be not Judged Mattera I do not know your heart or the people who lead whorship. Who knows peoples spiritual bankrupt we all are until Jesus comes.
This reminds me of the song The Heart of Worship by Matt Redman! My church chior sang it once. Our music minister, David Oliver, really stressed to us the importance that our priase and worship is All about Him and nothing about us or our talent!
This article nails it. As a mid 40’s worship pastor I could see this coming a few years back and greatly warned of it. Unfortunately in many of today’s church’s, ‘wow’ trumps the ‘Word.’
Are contemporary Christian worship leaders actually spiritually bankrupt? I am trying to think of one example. I appreciate the “warnings” in this article. But the title would lead one to believe that we are all spiritually bankrupt and, although I’m sure some of us are, There is nothing in the article that illustrates that. It just feels like “worship leader bashing” to me.
How about … “their leadership demand of such a high standard for their weekly musical performances and team responsibilities leaves them with less and less time to seek God on a personal basis….overworked and stressed to fulfill their demans it’s hard not to get spiritually backrupt…” Just saying….
a lot of finger pointing going on around here
Talent makes for good entertainment unless it yields itself to leading of the Holy Spirit. However most services are geared at 15-25 min of music and 40 min of preaching and then an alter call on que. Within these paramaters I would find it most difficult for any musician anointed or not to rise to him/hers spiritual Sunday morning potential. Although the musician is responsible for their ever maturing relationship in Christ, it’s the mainstream ideoligical ways of the church and it’s fear of man who is to blame for the weekend entertainment. Just as we utilize only a small percetage of the brain, so it goes with the Sunday morning program. In the same way we expect God to grace us with His Glory under the restraints that we have placed in our years of traditional praise. Many of us started our walk with Christ under the current religious structure, so whats wrong with the status quo? AS the days grow shorter and the Lord draws nearer so does His enemies. Our societies are changing at an increased rate. Governments seldom reverse course and man has acted in ways prdicted by the prophetic Word. As sin intensefies and the secular system gains more traction, the cinematic church will lose it’s attraction and those who worship Him in spirit and truth will be drawn to the anointed Lord and His ministers. If you were raised in the church then surely you have been kept by His grace. If you were snatched out of the very flames of hell then surly you have received great mercy. But no matter how you came into the kingdom, the kingdom and it’s children are getting ready to suffer more spiritual violence manifested in many physical ways. The everyday church in all its well meaningful ways will become exposed and shown naked if not dressed in the garments of praise. It will become more and more obvious in the coming days of those who have left their first love (Jesus) and traded him in for the talents and appearances of this world. And if you can’t tell the difference, then most likely you are worshiping in the wrong place.
I think this article is very unfairly written by stating “CC Worship Leaders are bankrupt”. I have worked with many leaders, both Comtemporary and Traditional, that ARE doing things the right way! Let’s give some credit to them! I have been in church situations where you could easily substitute “pastors” or “deacons” or other church positions where you inserted “worship leaders”. There is always a lack of Godliness anywhere there is a person in any position takes their eyes off of God, and allows the world to enter in. ALL leaders must stay focused on God!
Thank you! Thank you! As someone who was involved in full time ministry in Florida during the 90’s when the mega church worship team/choir was so popular. I see this as the downfall many churches make today. They put too much emphasis and dependence on the singers and worship leaders, when they do not even know or understand what “allowing the Holy Spirt to lead in every facet of the service”, means. I have experienced leaders and team members more concerned about their pay than about what God wanted to do. Where being saved was not expected as long as you can play an instrument, carry a tune, or connect in some way with the church members. God cannot and will not move when He is not the center of the service. Satan uses this as a tool to mislead and make you believe the church is growing because people are coming, but not coming for the right reasons. Only when God is allowed the leadership and we are the servants can He move and cause growth, not necessarily in just the church, but in the lives of those that come to hear from Him. We need to make sure that we do not fall prey to the schemes of the enenemy. If we can keep Ephesians, chapter 4, verse 12 as our purpose, we can be a church that is equipped for “the edifying of the body of Christ”. That should be our rule for leadership. (Read Ephesians chapter 4)
We are to worship not come for a show. So grateful my church isn’t into that at all. Our present worship team are all whole heartedly committed to the church and there’s such a difference in the move of the Spirit when it’s real and not a performance.
“TEN REASONS MANY CONTEMPORARY CHRISTIAN WORSHIP LEADERS ARE SPIRITUALLY BANKRUPT”
I think why so many feathers get ruffled is the words “contemporary Christian” as in genre.
I’ve seen deep, Spirit led, traditional and contemporary leaders. Is the performance minded worship leader who dictatorally directs a choir without love and grace, any different from the performance minded worship leader who doesn’t participate in the life of the church?
I think the truth is that the title was controversial because there are “hired hands” in every genre of worship.
Further, there are huge assumptions being made about “them” because they are not “us”. Might I point us back to Romans 14:4 – Who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
How about “TEN REASONS MANY WORSHIP LEADERS ARE SPIRITUALLY BANKRUPT”? If you’re spiritually bankrupt, it doesn’t matter if you’re singing choruses, contemporary, hymns, or playing handbells.
Bach Chorale style worship leaders were obviously corrupt because they weren’t leading Gregorian Chants. Cantors obviously are performers. Even though the Messiah was an oratorio straight from scripture, that Baroque style was far to flowery and that precision in performance necessary to sing those runs takes away from the understanding of the word. It just becomes performance for performance’s sake. :/ Really?
How many times does Satan use a divisive article like this in the hands of someone fighting his genre wars to discourage a faithful servant?
You wrote: “I am amazed with how often I see many worship team members leave the service after they perform. I guess they think that the highlight of the service was their performance and everything else that ensues, including preaching, is a letdown.”
No, that’s not the reason, and I think you know what the real reason is. Leading worship is work. The team arrives an hour, sometimes two hours before the congregation, and works at getting the music right for longer than most people spend in church. After they’ve actually led worship, they have an opportunity to relax, so they do.
The solution to this “problem” is the same as the solution to several of the other problems named in this article: don’t count on the Sunday service as the musicians’ contact with the church. They should have a separate spiritual time together on another day, when they have no responsibility to the church. Home meetings work wonders.
PS: Every word of this comment comes from decades of personal experience leading worship. Trust me; this works.
Hold up!
Did You say, “Trans local pastor”?
For three decades.
” Many pastors have a Superficial relationship with the Lord”.
Your article?
“Beware!” of False Prophets.
Totally! Confusus.
Yep, those are ten very good reasons. I have long believed along those same lines concerning the matter. There are probably other reasons as well. One other reason is that they don’t worship God in private at home. Geniune, truly anointed (not just talented), effective at leading people into the presence of God, worship leaders are those who find their way into God’s presence when they’re alone. I don’t believe people can publicly lead others to a place they’re not privately familiar with.
Megan, I love your comment, God often uses crooked sticks to draw straight lines. I have seen this happen, and say, ‘Well go figure!’ But it would be so much better if worship leaders and teams were themselves godly worshippers and truly, not just in front of the crowd, but truly reverenced the presence of the Lord.
If the congregation is more concerned that the band is not Christian enough than what the music has to say to them, there’s something wrong. Obviously we want the band to believe what they’re singing, but we and they are all in the midst of growth continually. Consider all the people employed by the church. I’d rather have a CPA who is traveling the faith journey (with all the hits and misses along the way) handling church accounts than a devoted Christian who can’t handle money properly.
This is true on so many levels
PowerFull and True
Your photo of Elevation Worship brought my attention to this article. I certainly hope you didn’t mean to imply that their gifted and anointed leaders fall into any category described in your article. I have no doubt people like that exist….and hopefully you can change to a picture that accurately represents those of which you speak.