A philosophy of worship involves the way we approach worship and should include both a thorough analysis of and an explicit statement of our underlying presuppositions. Understanding our “worship worldview” (for example, the cultural background and formal training we bring to our task) will help us to understand why we worship the way we do. It is therefore important to articulate this worldview as clearly and precisely as possible (preferably in a written format). The examples given under the headings below are those of Vineyard churches. They can be used as is, or as a guide to creating one’s own philosophy of worship.
The Elements of a Worship Philosophy
Values. Although values are unseen and often unarticulated, they are very influential. They are like the excavation within which the foundation of a building is placed. The foundation defines the location and the limits of the building. The deeper the foundation, the higher the building can rise. Values affect what we think and, consequently, what we do. Our values are an intrinsic part of us, although we seldom think about them in a conscious fashion. They determine the ideas, principles, and concepts a person or group can accept, assimilate, remember, and transmit. They are fallible and must be constantly revised and reviewed in the light of Scripture.
The following are values held at the Vineyard that we seek to instill in those to whom we minister: Worship is given solely for God’s glory and honor (Deut. 5:6–10; Rom. 1:20–23). We are to be intimate and self-disclosing with God (Isa. 49:15–16; Eph. 4:13; Phil. 3:10). Nothing is done for effect or to manipulate God or people (cf. 1 Kings 18:26–29). We are committed to honesty and integrity (Eph. 4:15, 25; Col. 3:9). Although our worship may be emotional, we do not want to work up emotions. We want to “dial down” in worship and let our emotional responses flow out of our interaction with God (Rev. 1:17). We welcome the ministry of the Holy Spirit in whatever way he chooses to work among us (1 Thess. 5:19).
Priorities. Unlike values, priorities are seen. Priorities are not so much what is said, but what is done. Priorities grow out of values and may be likened to the pillars that sit along the edge of the value boundary. That is, they rise out of the foundation and hold the building together. Priorities are erected to give a visible form to values. Priorities are the things that are most important in terms of action, visibility, and resources (time, energy, and money).
The following priorities control the philosophy of worship at Vineyard churches: Our worship is directed and focused upon God himself. We do not sing about God, but to him (Ps. 100:1; Rev. 5:9–10, 12–13). Worship is a twofold communication process: We worship God, and he touches us. Remember that the term for worship, proskuneo (pronounced pros-kyu-nay-o), literally means “to kiss.” Worship is practiced as a lifestyle on both the corporate and individual levels (Col. 3:15–17). We set aside time to worship like the early Christians did. (Pliny the Younger wrote to the emperor Trajan that the first-century Christians would frequently worship far into the night, singing for hours at a time.)
We invest money for musical instruments and sound equipment so that we will have quality in our worship (1 Chron. 25:1–6). We expend energy to rehearse, set up, and prepare for worship (spontaneity is best when it is undergirded with thorough preparation). We teach others how to worship so that they may experience intimacy with God (Col. 3:16). We feel free to integrate change as our worship grows and expands. We are careful, though, to maintain consistency between our values and our priorities when we do initiate change.
Practices. Practices are sometimes seen and sometimes not seen. They hang upon priorities. Practices may be likened to the fittings in a building—the wiring, the plumbing, the air-conditioning and heating systems, the furniture, etc. These components are so common that they become almost invisible as they flow through the structure. They become visible only at the point at which they produce the intended effect. Remember that practices are symbols that communicate values and priorities even though these values and priorities may never be articulated verbally. Therefore, it is vital to make a conscious effort to ensure that our practices do indeed communicate our values and priorities.
The following are practices that are found in the worship of Vineyard churches: We engage in practices that are biblically sanctioned, either implicitly or explicitly. We encourage the whole person to enter into worship through the use of the body (raising hands, kneeling, bowing), soul (reading of Scripture, singing, shouting, recalling God’s works), spirit (Spirit to spirit, love, tongues). We worship whenever we gather in various groups and settings, even if the gatherings are spontaneous. We encourage an uninterrupted flow of worship; thus, we will sing many songs in succession without interjections from the worship leader. We worship in a contemporary musical style; this helps people to identify with what they are singing to God. We generally encourage moderate practices when we worship in corporate meetings so others are not distracted. We always seek to expand and deepen our present foundation. We seek new songs, new modes of expression, new experiences with God.
Four Basic Personality Types
In any given group, it is argued here, there are four basic personality types. Each responds to change in different ways. These must be taken into account when planning worship.
Radicals. These are people most open to and desirous of change. Typically, these people are radical in every area of their lives. When things become too settled, they usually leave to join another group.
Progressives. These individuals have some openness to change. They are often more stable in their lifestyles than “radicals” but have had a divergent past that continues to exercise an influence over their present views and practices.
Conservatives. These people are moderately resistant to change. They are the trustees of the traditions that are accepted in any given congregation.
Traditionalists. These individuals are least open to and desirous of change. Often their values, priorities, and practices are more in step with those of the past than with the present. These and the radicals will usually be the most difficult groups with which to work. The percentage of each personality type in relation to the whole group generally depends on the age of the group as a whole. Note that traditions are quickly and easily formed. Each personality group has its own function, value, and place in the life of the whole group.
Services
Like priorities, services are also seen. Services are structures that correspond with the particular rooms in a building—the living room, the dining room, the den, etc. Different services allow values and priorities to be further expressed in various ways. Services must accurately express our values and be appropriate to the context of a particular meeting (e.g., a full band versus an acoustic guitar).
The following services are part of the life of the Anaheim, California, Vineyard:
• Celebrations. These are often Sunday meetings but always include the various congregations from the church.
• Congregational meetings. These are gatherings of individuals who have shared interests or goals, such as youth groups, singles activities, etc.
• Kinships. These are small groups or home fellowships.
• Seminars. These provide the opportunity for further training and/or in-depth teaching on topics of interest to persons in the congregation.
• Other more spontaneous worship settings. These can range from spur-of-the-moment activities to beach barbecues, etc.
Implementing the Philosophy
First, give people time to learn new skills. Remember that everyone learns at a different pace. Consequently, introduce the right skill at the right time and be aware of the psychology of change: Change often results in unsettled responses, including fear, anger, insecurity, awkwardness, foolishness, feelings of being out of control, and vulnerability. Therefore, be as patient and understanding as possible. Respond lovingly with words of encouragement. Let people know that change is hard on the human psyche, and that they are doing well.
Second, reinforce the model, even after it is set. This is done through several means:
• Do it yourself. If you don’t, they won’t. Remember that Paul encouraged the Corinthians to follow him as he followed Christ (1 Cor. 11:1).
• Direct by not directing. Too much direction will stifle the people’s initiative by making them feel controlled.
• Let them do it. People learn best in a context that allows them to make mistakes.
Do the reinforcing before worship rather than during it. By not interrupting the flow of worship, we push worship toward intimacy. Make any corrective comments short and to the point without being critical or manipulative and be especially wary of saying, “The Lord told me _____________.” Also, periodic seminars are very helpful to teach and teach again—to deepen understanding and recall ability.