Church Music
My friend Andy just posted about the schism that’s been happening as a result of differing musical tastes in people. Suddenly we have Hip Hop church which is different from Rock Church who think Country Church is abysmal because they just wish they were Bluegrass Church. I’d like to add a bit to what he had to say:
- Is Blended Worship a real option or a sad compromise from traditional to contemporary.
Yes and no. Redone hymns can be *incredible.* But sometimes “Blended” is like going to Steak-n-Shake and finding they “shook” them together. Bleh. - Should Music Style Be a Church Growth Strategy? (Or at least part of strategy discussion)
Music can definitely get people in the building. But isn’t it secondary at best? Relationships grow churches, not flashing lights. But since people are now professional consumers of music, virtually everyone can tell when the music “isn’t right” and needs improvement. Excellence is important, but authenticity is better.
Good corporate worship should:
- Communicate Jesus
- Be theologically sound
- Maintain some standard of aesthetic excellence.
I’m concerned that we miss the first two in pursuit of the third.
Tags: edgy, music, traditional, worship
Posted on Tuesday, December 15th in Church Theory.
After catching up on my eblasts today. I got this Gem from Andy Stanley.
http://www.catalystspace.com/content/read/music_m...
I feel another blog about this.
Just shooting straight, I think that excellence and authenticity are both essential. Let's face it, churches that constantly emphasize that it's more about the "heart" or "authenticity" than excellence, probably have music and/or vocalists that suck. On the other hand, if a church constantly talks about their excellence and how it's paramount, they may in fact be disguising some deeper heart issues.
I'm not going to lie…if there isn't excellence, I'm not going to keep attend the church even if it's authentic. And vice versa. I say keep both standards high or don't do it at all.
Hey Josh. I agree standards should be high. thanks for stopping by.
I found your blog on google and read a few of your other posts. I just added you to my Google News Reader. Keep up the good work. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.