Blinded

Drew Russell
Jul 24, 2017 · 3 min read

At first glance, the term “spiritual discipline” might seem legalistic and archaic. In our modern culture that sees little value or worth in absolute moral truths, the thought of discipline — spiritual or not — can be foreign and removed.

This disconnect presents a major problem for most conservative churches. The Gospel we are presenting and proclaiming from our platforms demands that its followers become well-trained and well-learned in the attributes of the faith. Yet, this task is simply impossible without the application of the disciplines that so many are quick to dismiss.

Of the many disciplines that could be discussed, the topic of this post will revolve around confession. Why is daily confession necessary for the believer? Can we incorporate this into our worship ministries? If so, how?

Photo Credit: Baptist Press

A lack of confession and repentance is running rampant in many congregations today and is truly a two-fold complication. It stems from both the heart of the believer and the instruction/modeling of leaders.

Though the main focus of this post is in regards to the latter, the former cannot go without mentioning. Proverbs reminds us of this:

“Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. (NLT)” — Proverbs 4:23

The heart and mindset of the believer is impacted by sin. Due to the fall of man, sin will be a struggle until Christ returns.

Without a doubt, Christ and His redemptive blood have justified born-again believers before God for eternity (Romans 5:1). But this does not excuse us from daily and intentional repentance. We cannot turn from sin if we do not confess and ask for guidance. We cannot fully experience the love and forgiveness of Christ if we are not willing to turn over the things that bind us. We cannot faithfully serve with joy when we are blinded by unrepentance.

Yet, I would be willing to assert that this monumental problem is, at least partially, due to a worship culture that is skewed unequally toward God’s love and acceptance rather than our desperate depravity. A culture that screams “come as you are” yet whispers “leave changed.”

As leaders, we must be diligent to model the full-scope of the Christian life to the souls God has entrusted us to shepherd. This duty is not a suggestion, it is a command. (2 Timothy 2:2) Perhaps the greatest way to incorporate this into our ministry’s DNA is to utilize our corporate gatherings for instruction in this regard.

There are several key ways a gathering body of believers can be shown and given opportunities to practice repentance.

With Our Prayers

When voicing these prayers, be intentional to ask for forgiveness in a corporately appropriate way. “Father, forgive us the moments we don’t trust you enough and guide us to realize we are completely dependent on You.” Phrases such as this have the potential to keep repentance on the minds of our people.

In Our Reponse Times

Using Specific and Intentional Moments

Reflections on Music, Worship, and Spiritual Formation

A collection of essays, blog posts, and insights from graduate students and faculty of the School of Church Music at SWBTS. We seek to contribute to the ongoing dialogue concerning issues of music, worship, spiritual formation, and the arts from a biblical worldview.

Thanks to David Toledo

Drew Russell

Written by

Reflections on Music, Worship, and Spiritual Formation

A collection of essays, blog posts, and insights from graduate students and faculty of the School of Church Music at SWBTS. We seek to contribute to the ongoing dialogue concerning issues of music, worship, spiritual formation, and the arts from a biblical worldview.

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