We’re heading toward the season of Pentecost. I’ve been on the prowl for a good worship song on the Holy Spirit. Surprisingly, though evangelical modern worship is most influenced by Pentecostalism, there are few songs of quality which deal with the person and work of the Holy Spirit. My friend in North Carolina, Bruce Benedict of Cardiphonia (a robust site with all kinds of resources and reflections on worship and liturgy), has set an old Charles Wesley hymn, “Come, Thou Everlasting … Read More
Austin Lovelace, Church Music Legend, Passes into Glory
A few weeks ago, I developed a new friendship with someone I highly respect and admire. Austin Lovelace has influenced thousands of church musicians to the glory of God and the strengthening of Christ’s church cross-denominationally. When Dr. Lovelace and I spent that afternoon together over coffee, I had no idea how short the time would be. He was, of course, very old, but he was full of energy. Dr. Lovelace is certainly a traditionalist when it comes to worship. … Read More
On Worship: Consumerism, God as the “Sky Fairy,” and Authenticity
I’ve got a new friend, colleague, and ally in the quest to raise the bar on evangelical worship. His name is John Gooch. He’s a new M.Div. student (worship emphasis) at Denver Seminary, and even as he leads worship at various churches, he’s been a part of our pastor’s group committed to weekly reflection, mentorship, and accountability in ministry. John recently wrote a paper reflecting on Mark Driscoll’s, The Radical Reformission (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2004). This was part of an … Read More
Pascal’s Wager and Christ’s Presence in Communion
The most recent edition of RELEVANT Magazine contained an intriguing article by Jason Boyette, author of the “Pocket Guide” series of books…and a Baptist. Boyette openly wrestles with his tradition’s take on the presence of Christ in communion. Most Baptists traditionally believe that communion is purely symbolic and merely a remembrance…there is no special presence of Christ (whether spiritual or physical) in communion. This is sometimes called a “memorialist” position. Boyette offers some great thoughts as he entertains certain challenging Scripture passages and the majority tradition of the Church.
The Lectionary and the Holy Spirit’s Subversive Unification of the Church
My Catholic and Orthodox colleagues, brothers, sisters, and friends continually remind me (either explicitly or merely by their presence in my life) that one of the sad realities of Protestantism has been the fragmentation of Christ’s Church. I agree. We’re splintered. And I believe that this grieves the heart of God (John 17). However, I resonate (obviously) with Protestantism’s zeal for biblical truth and desire to seek the worship and work of the Church in its purest form possible, re-formed according to Scripture. This tension is something I’ve come to rest in…though it’s a restless rest.
Worship Leaders & Pastors: No Whining During Holy Week
Last night, after our Maundy Thursday Family Service, when almost everyone was gone, I noticed that the light in our Senior Pastor’s office was on. Don Sweeting will be leaving us in a few short weeks for a new call as President of Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, and I dearly love the man, so it was a peaceful opportunity to let him know how much I appreciate him and will miss him. Of course, Don and I have never been prone to brief conversations because we’re always rabbit trailing into discussions on theology, worship, and philosophy of ministry. Don mentioned something that resonated with me. He said something to the effect of, “Pastors that complain about the extra work load during Holy Week and Easter don’t realize what a blessing we have.”