Today: the place for spontaneity as a worship leader
New Testament
- Evidence for spontaneity in worship, 1 Corinthians 14:25-26
- However, need for orderliness, 1 Corinthians 14:40
Erickson: “the spirit moves through spontaneity. The spirit also moves through form and structure. Obviously, for Paul both dimensions are vital to the dynamics of worship.”
Erickson: “…a balance between structure and freedom is easier to attain in theory than in practice. The tension between the two can become a source of discord within a congregation. The pastoral challenge is to maintain a creative balance amidst these two constantly shifting elements”
Key Principle: “Everything must be done so that the church may be built up” (1 Corinthians 14:26)
Before you go spontaneous:
- Discuss the place of spontaneity with leadership
- Agree on principles and practicals as a worship team
- Get feedback
Enabling spontaneity:
- Do not abandon structure – it enables freedom
- Give the service structure to your team as far in advance as possible
Practicals:
- Extend a song
- Add/change a song
- Read/quote a scripture
- Pray
- Say a few words
What else can you think of / have you seen?
Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.
Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.
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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)
God bless, Malcolm
PS: If you would like some coaching in spiritual disciplines, look me up here.
PPS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John
