Worship Matters: A Faithful Worship Leader

In Chapter 7 of his book, Kauflin states that being a good worship leader can not be equated to fame. When we look at other famous worship leaders with CD's and world tours, it is easy to wonder where we went wrong. However, being faithful to God is not about fame, but rather about being loyal to Him. It is so easy to get caught up in the music, but we must remember to please God and lead people to God's greatness. Opposition may arise, and we have to be aware of it-but as long as we know we please God, worship is true worship.

I think that it is very easy for worship leaders to be carried away with the music. After all, as musicians we tend to automatically worry about the quality of the music. I do agree that it is puzzling when somebody compliments us on the worship, because I feel that often they refer to the quality of the music, not the purpose of the music. I also feel like I tend to either worry too much about criticizism or not worry at all, but I realize that the only one I have to please is God.

Worship Matters: So What Does A Worship Leader Do?

In this week's assignment, I read chapter six of Bob Kauflin's book. The chapter starts off by giving an introduction of how worship leaders came to be throughout the history of churches. Next, Kauflin questions the importance of worship leaders, posing the question of whether or not they are more important than preachers. He answers this by stating that worship comes in more forms than simply music, but also in ways excluding music. The term "worship leader" is debated because some claim it implies worship only occurs in the singing part of a church meeting, rather than throughout life. However, Kauflin asserts that the most important worship leader is Jesus, and the rest of us, as worship leaders, should convey God's greatness to the congregation through combining music and words.

I believe that the term "worship leader" is coined that way because it is shortened from "worship music". Worship music as a whole is amazing, but in no way is musical worship leading more important than preaching. While worship music may lead many to Christ, preaching allows the congregation to become stronger Christians and learn of the Word of God. Worship is no more or no less important among other elements of a church meeting. I believe that the term "worship leader" should still apply to those who lead worship music in church, but it is important to realize that worship occurs in so many more ways than music; worship is also evident through using other gifts to glorify God's name.

Worship Matters: The Leader

We read part one of Bob Kauflin's book, which was concerned with worship team as leaders. He starts off questioning the impact of a worship leader on others and the importance of being one. Kauflin then asserts that the heart is the most important aspect of a good worship, because it is so easy for one to become sidetracked with idolatry or self-obsession and forget what really matters. In the end, everything is owed to God and the gifts and talents He blessed each individual with. Kauflin also states that it is important to not only carry out worship in each Sunday service, but also to practice a life of Christianity in love and conduct throughout our lives.

I personally agree with Kauflin's statements in the first part of his book. I feel as if it is so easy to focus on the quality of the music I produce that I somewhat lose focus on the only reason why I'm up and performing in the first place: God. I believe that worship is productive when both skill and passion for Christ is combined. I also want to be able to carry out biblical leadership more than worship on a Sunday, and should pay attention to the example I set in the way I live my life.