Philosophy of Church Music

2. PHILOSOPHY OF WORSHIP

Definition
Worship is the first, most important thing the church and its constituents are on the earth for, and it is the endpoint of all true Christian service. Worship is the ascribing of glory to God in an encounter of created man with Creator God on His own terms­a righteousness that only He can supply. Consequently, while worship is an act of people, it is ultimately empowered by God.

Characteristics
Worship, by definition, is focused on God. It may take varying forms and may be a more-or-less afterthought in other Christian activities, but worship in the broadest sense is what the church in general and Christians in particular do. Directly or not, the believer in right relationship with God is practicing religion in everything he says and does. In addition, it is always a sacrificial act. If it doesn't cost something­in time, resources, or effort­it isn't worship.

Purpose
If worship is centered around God and is characterized by an overt or underlying focus on him, then its purpose is always an active one: to give God the glory due his name. It is never accidental; it is the sum and focus of all Christian service. It informs and properly orients all other ministries.


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