Karl Vaters and Bobby Gilles on Worship Music

6 Important Differences Between Performance Music And Worship Music

In performance, the focus is on the musicians. In worship, the focus is on Jesus.

Music has always been a point of contention in the church.

Hundreds of years ago church members argued over singing in harmony instead of unison (bye-bye, Gregorian chants!), then we argued over whether-or-not to use instruments, then over what instruments are appropriate for church music. Today we argue over word repetition, loudness, lights, fog, word repetition (see what I did there?), you name it.

Maybe I'm naïve, but when it comes to music I seldom see the church arguing over anything that's actually worth arguing over.

So what is worth arguing over – or at least taking seriously – when we’re talking about worship through music?

Here’s one.

We need to understand the differences between music for worship and music in performance. Read More

Expand Your Worship Song Themes With This Easy, Gospel-Centered System

Any worship pastor who has been crafting worship service liturgies for awhile knows the dilemma. So does any worship songwriter: How do I present new songs to the church that don’t just say the same thing? How do I make sure I’m providing a full gospel diet for worshipers?

I’ve reminded you of themes before, in articles such as 9 Proven (But Largely Forgotten) Themes For Worship Songs and Two Models of Prayer to Improve Your Worship Songwriting & Selection. But did you know our ancient church forebears also provided a powerful tool for ordering the very days of our lives after gospel rhythms, year after year? From the first day of Advent to Christ The King Sunday one year later, each season of the Christian Year focuses on a different part and aspect of Christ’s life and mission. Read More

Also See
9 Proven (But Largely Forgotten) Themes For Worship Songs
Two Models of Prayer to Improve Your Worship Songwriting & Selection