Some of us at church got into an off-topic discussion this afternoon. Here was the question: Is it okay/appropriate for a non-Christian person to be playing on a worship team at a church? We heard the postives and negatives from both sides (in a heated way) and then actually returned to the topic we were supposed to be discussing.
I'm going to hold off on my opinion of this matter, at least until asked for it, but am curious to hear the thoughts of any of you who read? Would it make a difference to you to find out (I am by no means implying this is true, just asking the question) that a worship leader is not a Christian? Does their role on the team make a difference, for example, the leader vs. a drummer or bass player?
Most people's initial reaction is to say that there shouldn't be non-Christians on a worship team. If this is your stance (I still am not saying my stance yet) I would ask one follow up question: What parts of church involvement are acceptable for non-Christians, and how did you come to that conclusion?
Curious to have this discussion. Keep it civil, there is no need for anger here.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
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1 comments:
A very interesting question sure to have emotion involved. Obviously there is the point of view that exposing non-Christians to Christian worship of God and Christ and Holy Spirit can help lead them to Christ, which should be the ultimate goal. The question can be raised, can non-Christians "ethically" lead a worship service, or instead of lead, participate in the worship ministry? That leads to another question, why would they want to? Is it part of their journey learning to walk with Christ? Is it something else having to do with a skill they have (God Given?) that they want to use?
Does their participating hurt or help? And who does it hurt or help?
I believe this is a case by case basis, where it could be good or bad but, to assume there is a "right" answer is too simplistic approach. Is God working through them (the non-Christian) to reach others, or even them? To assume we know God's plans is too prideful. To assume God would only use Christians to effect his desire is to prideful! Is the right message coming from them?
I don't come close to knowing how God uses Chrisitians and non-Christians in his plans but believe he could be using them for good. To assume one single position on the question is a human approach and while that's the WORLD we operate in, God's plans are beyond our understanding. Since non of us is without sin, why can't a sinner be doing Gods work even if he/she doesn't know it? Maybe they are reacting to God and Christ's message but haven't recognized it yet. I believe automatically excluding a non-Christian from worship, or contributing to a worship team in not in the spirt a Christian should be operating from. More thought required.
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