This is aimed at children’s ministry, but has implications for us all.
If worship were simply singing songs, much of the New Testament wouldn’t make a whole lot of sense. For example…
Romans 12:1 (NIV) Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
Hebrews 13:15 (NIV) Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name.
Continual singing? That doesn’t make sense. And how can we offer our bodies as a living sacrifice merely through song? There’s got to be more to the equation.
It has been widely reported that the state of modern Christendom in Western society is one where millions of people are being reached “a mile wide”—that is, with quality family-based programs, culturally engaging messages and entertaining music—but often only “an inch deep.” Theologically, the average church attender today is purported to have more knowledge about the drink choices at the church espresso bar than the foundational tenants of the gospel he or she claims to fully believe and follow. There is a real degree of truth to these reports; in fact, songs written for 19th and 20th century children to feast on are now thought too meaty for 21st century adults to digest.
Yes, I know, I’ve posted this video many times. Well, here’s another time. At Linda’s request, Our God Is an Awesome God, by Michael W. Smith. I love this video. I especially love the way the whole audience breaks into song as soon as they hear the first few chords. Kind of gives one hope, doesn’t it?
