| ||||||||||||||||||
|
Browse our Bookshelf Favorites store for big savings on popular fiction, nonfiction, children's books, and more. |
Product Details
Would you like to update product info or give feedback on images? |
Morgenthaler begins this idea of worship evangelism in the understanding that seekers are looking for an encounter with God, and the church is where they should find it. "They are hungry to see evidence of God at work in our hearts" (40)! If this is so, evangelism is a natural outgrowth.
The section in chapter three discussing what it means to worship in spirit and in truth was very insightful. Our desire for truth grows out of our worship in the spirit. In turn, our worship in truth which brings us to a greater understanding of who God is enlivens and broadens our worship in spirit.
In her chapter discussing the reasons for worship evangelism, Morgenthaler underscores that Christians and seekers find common ground at the foot of the cross, and so it is in worship. She sees worship as a great "leveler." In public worship, all must come before God broken and in need of restoration. There is room and a place for all in worship.
Morgenthaler dedicates a significant portion of the book to application of her theories. Many helpful tips and suggestions are included. For example, on page 118, Morgenthaler poses some important questions for the reader/worship leader to consider like, "What is one thing the people can do for themselves this week that we as a worship staff typically do for them?"
My only contention with book centered around Morgenthaler's discussion on how to keep boomers from leaving the church again - or any other group for that matter. She suggests the key lies in the boomers worship experience. At this point, I feel that Morganthaler's scope is much to narrow. There is more to a church, the community of believers, than worship or evangelism or worship evangelism. Worship that inspires belief will not result in long term commitments to the church or God no matter how good, relevant, or meaningful it is. Worship alone will never keep or connect anyone long-term. Believing without belonging results in leaving. Authentic Christian community is essential to longevity.
Overall, Worship Evangelism is a landmark book for pastors and worship leaders. The worship principles of this book, if properly applied will lead both Christians and seekers to an encounter with God.
Morgenthaler takes exception with the current "seeker-friendly" service which supposedly attracts the unchurched without exposing them to "worship." Through extensive research Morgenthaler shows the steady decline of these churches and a generation hungry for worship that inspires and ultimately reaches the unchurched.
According to Morgenthaler, effective corporate worship needs four basic elements (essentials): (1) Nearness - a sense of God's presence; (2) Knowledge - worship centered on Christ; (3) Vulnerability - opening up to God; and (4) Interaction - participating in a relationship with God and others (1999:96-97).
While Morgenthaler gives some practical "hands-on" material, much of her work is devoted to building a solid theological and cultural foundation for worship evangelism.
Morgenthaler again and again emphasizes this point throughout her work. I agree wholeheartedly with her conclusion, but wish she had chosen a better means to support it. This volume draws heavily upon the sociological definitions of "boomer" and "buster." It interviews various worship leaders to get their perspectives on what is currently effective for them in ministry. It rambles in an almost endless explanation of what is required to reach "Seeker Bob" and "Shopper Bruce."
The bottom line here is that Morgenthaler's destination is commendable. Genuine worship CAN reach the unchurched for Christ. Her method of getting the reader to that destination however, is mediocre at best and could stand much improvement.
I would recommend that if anyone is interesting in learning more about this book, borrow, don't buy. Skim, don't read. The time and energy spent in covering every page would be better invested elsewhere.
|