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.