I have been thinking about how I would try to explain to someone in the church how we go about choosing our songs for a time of congregational worship - we know this and probably take these points almost for granted. However, I thought that it might be a useful reminder to 'state the obvious' and so here are 4 main practical things that came to mind.
Tell me what you think about these points - anything you would add to or take away?
1. Song Lyrics need to line up with scripture:
We can't assume that just because we trust the writer or the publisher that the song is true. We are all prone to error or miscommunication. Also, words sometimes mean different things to different people. As the worship leader, we must make sure that what we are asking the church to sing is clear and in-line with the Gospel.
2. Musical styles need to be culturally and periodically relevant:
Songs can be true lyrically, but out of date or context culturally. If we are asked to lead worship in an older congregation that loves hymns, we should be incorporating hymns. If it's leading a youth service, choose songs that are a bit more edgy. I also think we need to ensure that the majority of songs we use were written in the last few years. There's nothing wrong with pulling out an old favorite, but there is something important about using songs that are fresh to the church.
3. Songs need to be musically accessible:
We are blessed with a great team of musicians, and I think it is important that we learn to be better at 'playing to our strengths' in terms of song-choice. For example, if a song that has a brilliant percussion 'interlude' on the CD won't sound the same if our band line-up does not have percussion. This can be fine, so long as we are able to create an different arrangement that still keeps the sense of integrity about what the song is trying to say through the music (just as important as what the words are saying!) We also need to ensure that songs we use are within the sing-ability of the congregation.
4. Remember the potential of 'performance' songs and instrumental music:
There is a place for those songs that are not congregational, but that have a strong message for the church. Whether it's during the main part of the worship, as we break bread, before or after preach, there are some fantastic powerful songs that will minister to the congregation in ways corporate singing cannot. Let's not limit when we use these to our more 'special' meetings, such as Saviour King or Third Day, but be open to using them whenever we feel it will say something powerful.
I am so pleased that our worship leaders are really gifted musically and take their preparation of song lists very seriously and prayerfully. We have been experiencing some incredible times of worship, and I often feel that our song choices have a real sense of anointing running through them - so, let's keep on pushing in and stepping out with our times of worship.
God bless,
Simon
