This phase of the heart encourages a worshiper into a place where they can praise God for who He is, what He has done, and what we can expect from a God who keeps His promises. If I’m honest, most of the songs in our library are tagged with this category. It should be easy to see why.
Phases of the Heart: A Philosophy of Worship Music, Part 5
This might be the most intuitive group. Songs of invitation do just that: they invite us into this place of worship where we can begin to shake off the baggage we brought with us that might otherwise serve to hinder our praise.
Phases of the Heart: A Philosophy of Worship Music, Part 4
However, evaluating songs according to these “phases” creates a framework that we can also work within and help define songs for worship. Essentially, if a song cannot fit into one of these categories, it doesn’t belong in worship.
The Direction of Worship: A Philosophy of Worship Music, Part 3
Worship is adoration, physical or emotional acknowledgment of who God is and what he has done for us: it is our reply. Worship is directional. Corporate worship is a narrower, more focused take on that definition. When we gather, we do so to receive and to adore. We gather to receive the Word and the sacraments of forgiveness and grace, and praise Him together, as His body, corporately as one.
“In Christ Alone” A Philosophy of Worship Music, Part 2
As a first line of defense against worship that does not build up the church, I dive deep into song lyrics and the intent of the songwriter in communicating (confessing and proclaiming) the Gospel of Christ that comes from Scripture.