Why Should Worship Leaders Study Theology?
Though the role of worship leader or worship pastor has held many different names, music ministry has been a primary function in most congregations for the majority of church history. Like other pastors, this role helps shapes the theological beliefs of a congregation. The delivery method differs from that of the teaching pastor, but through the selection of songs and scriptures, and calls to worship and other teaching moments within the context of worship, a worship pastor guides the congregants into both moments of worship and lifestyles of worship. By being intentional with corporate times of worship, the worship pastor aids in the spiritual formation of the congregation, just as any other pastor does. For the worship pastor to be successful in what is required to both lead a congregation in worship and teach them how to be worshippers, it is necessary that they apply themselves to the study of theology.
In the book, A Concise Dictionary of Theological Terms, Morgan and Peterson identify theological studies as consisting of four types of study; Biblical Theology, Historical Theology, Systematic Theology, and Practical Theology. Biblical Theology is the study of God’s unfolding story as it progresses from creation to new creation. This biblical storyline reveals, frames, arranges, and links biblical teachings. Historical Theology is the study of the church’s understanding of Scripture and its teaching over the centuries. Systematic Theology is the integrating and synthesizing of doctrinal conclusions based on exegetical, biblical, and historical theology. Finally, Practical Theology is the study of ways theology is applied to individuals and the church.(1)
Each area of theological study is necessary for the worship pastor. With Biblical Theology, we are able to connect the story of the Bible from beginning to end, allowing the congregational member to see the whole picture of God’s plan. With Historical Theology, we help the congregational member know that they are part of the story of the church that has held onto main beliefs for hundreds of years. Utilizing Systematic Theology, we help the congregation to build a strong foundation of belief; Practical Theology helps take the foundation of belief and put it into action.
While a teaching pastor may deliver a three-point sermon that informs and enlightens the congregation to God’s truth, it’s the job of the worship pastor to deliver a three-part sermon of songs, which points the congregation to the accurate revelation of God, while leading the congregation in a biblical founded response to Him and each other. If a worship pastor does not have a strong theological foundation to build on, he or she can shape the beliefs of the congregation in unbiblical ways. Without the foundation of theology, this could easily move from congregational worship to a counterfeit experience. From lyric choices to encouragements delivered by the worship pastor, to calls to worship and corporate prayer, it’s necessary for every intersection of corporate worship to be built on a foundation of Scripture and with a priority placed on our worship being acceptable in the eyes of God. This is our responsibility as pastors and leaders of worship in the church.
In conclusion, the local church is served a grave injustice when the expectations of its worship pastor are limited solely to talent and task management. From the biblical perspective, all parts of church leadership should be empowered to share the responsibility of shepherding the congregation, so the individual worshipper is able to mature and grow in their faith. The worship leader holds a valuable position as a teacher and should be a knowledgeable theologian, able to apply God’s Word for His glory and the edification of the church.
(1) Each definition was taken from the book “A Concise Dictionary of Theological Terms” by Christopher W. Morgan and Robert A. Peterson. B&H Publishing Group.
