I have been involved in music ministry for the past two decades. Serving in various ministries, regions, and contexts has exposed me to different approaches to arranging worship musical selections. One of my consistent observations is that music often sparks controversy in churches, with congregants holding strong preferences and artists known for their particularities. These experiences, coupled with my commitment to excellence as a minister of music, have inspired me to develop a specific approach to musical selection. Here are some insights I have gained to help craft worship services that honor God, foster unity, and ensure that corporate music effectively fulfills its sacred purpose.
Why Music?
Music is a vital element of church liturgy, serving as a powerful instrument for worship. It enables believers to share God’s truths with one another (Ephesians 5:19), offers an emotional outlet for expressing joy and gratitude to God (Psalm 84:4-6; James 5:13), and provides a creative means to adorn and teach divine truths (Psalm 150:3-5; Colossians 3:16). While the New Testament often emphasizes joy and thanksgiving, Christian music also embraces expressions of lament and judgment, as seen in the diverse themes of the Psalms. Thus, music promotes truth and fosters encouragement in ways conducive to corporate worship.
The Nature of Corporate Worship Music
Scripture highlights “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs” (Eph. 5:19 and Col. 3:16), affirming a wide variety of musical forms acceptable for worship. Yet, across all traditions, places, and times, corporate worship music should embody certain universal characteristics to fulfill its purpose.
First, songs must be God-directed. From Old Testament temple worship (1 Chronicles 16:23) to the Psalms (Psalm 95:1) and the worship in Revelation (Revelation 5:12), singing is an act of praise offered to the Lord. Music that focuses on individual experiences rather than God, as some contemporary Christian songs may do, fails to serve the purpose of corporate worship.
Second, songs should be congregational. Ephesians 5:19 instructs believers to sing “to one another,” implying that music should be accessible and unifying. Songs with challenging vocal ranges, complex styles, or too many that are unfamiliar can hinder participation and should be avoided.
Third, music must be biblical, embedding the “word of Christ” in the hearts of those who sing and hear (Colossians 3:16). Songs with false or unclear doctrine undermine the integrity of worship.
Fourth, corporate worship music should be orderly (1 Cor. 14:40). While instruments like drums or electric guitars are not inherently inappropriate, chaotic or overly loud music can disrupt a worshipful atmosphere. Careful attention to volume, performance style, and avoiding unexpected elements helps maintain a reverent focus.
Finally, music should flow from a Spirit-filled heart (Ephesians 5:18). Some charismatic traditions interpret this as a call for spontaneity in worship, while others adhere to structured liturgies. Regardless of approach, true worship carries an intangible, Spirit-led quality that transcends form. This requires worship leaders to be in right standing with God, addressing unconfessed sin to lead authentically.
By adhering to these principles, worship music can glorify God, edify the congregation, and reflect the Spirit’s presence, regardless of the tradition or setting.
Forming Worship Music Sets
When selecting songs for a Sunday service, I consider multiple factors, including current events, the liturgical calendar, and the sermon’s theme. Different Christian traditions weigh these elements variably—Anglicans often emphasize the liturgical calendar, choosing music tied to holy days and seasonal themes, while Baptists typically focus on aligning music with the sermon’s message.
I base my song choices on four key criteria:
Context: The occasion shapes selections. During Advent, I prioritize seasonal songs regardless of the sermon. In response to a national or church tragedy, I choose comforting hymns to reflect the moment’s gravity.
Sermon Text: I align songs with the preaching passage’s themes. For messages on future hope, I might select “I’ll Fly Away” or “In the Sweet By and By.” For justification, “In Christ Alone” or “Amazing Grace” reinforces the sermon’s focus.
Dynamism: I aim for balance across four elements: songs about God’s character (His holiness and love), songs responding to God (gratitude or awe), at least one song presenting the Gospel, and varied musical styles to enhance the service’s flow.
Service Flow: The service aims to foster genuine worship through intimacy with God. I start with songs highlighting God’s holiness, majesty, and power to refocus worshippers. Next, songs address human obligations, often prompting conviction. This is followed by musical assurance of pardon, exalting Christ’s person and work. Finally, there are at least two songs that tie directly to the sermon theme, culminating the worship service.
This approach ensures music complements the service’s spiritual and thematic goals, facilitating a meaningful connection between Christ and His church.
For a sermon based on the story of David and Goliath, I could begin with “Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise,” which underscores God’s immense power, unchanging nature, and self-sufficiency. Next, I might choose “Hail to Jesus” (based on Psalm 118) to highlight the certainty of future judgment. Following this, a gospel-focused hymn like “The Solid Rock” can reassure believers of God’s grace and love. As we approach the prayer before the sermon, a reflective hymn such as “Be Still My Soul” can encourage the congregation to trust that God is with them through any trial. After the sermon, “A Mighty Fortress” will reinforce the message of God’s strength and protection, echoing the triumph in David’s victory over Goliath.
Conlclusion
Selecting songs for corporate worship is a profound privilege that deepens the connection between believers, both themselves and their Savior. This task requires careful adherence to biblical principles guiding music’s purpose and boundaries, while considering the congregation’s specific context and traditions. Thoughtfully curating a worship set, rather than hastily assembling songs for mere appeal, yields rich rewards, fostering meaningful worship that glorifies God and edifies the church.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
