POPULARITY
Categories
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Evangelism & Missions", First Grade Bible Presentation, Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).19. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20. and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 NIV) 8. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8 NIV)
Send us a textAuthentic Worship vs Cultural Compromise: A Wake-Up Call with Reverend Ben CooperWhat happens when worldly rhythms infiltrate our worship? In this powerful and timely episode of Christian Straight Talk, Reverend Ben Cooper strips away the layers of compromise and emotionalism in modern Christian culture to reveal the true heart of worship—Scripture, prayer, and spiritual breakthrough.Reverend Ben opens with a bold question: Have we allowed the culture of the world to dictate the sound of the church? He challenges what he calls the “weak, woke, and worldly” direction of today's worship music, warning that many songs now reflect secular patterns more than they do the sacred power of the Holy Spirit. While emotional highs are common, Cooper explains, genuine breakthrough is rare without the Word of God anchoring our worship.Drawing from Acts 16, Cooper unpacks the story of Paul and Silas singing Psalms in prison, demonstrating how Scripture-based worship carries a unique spiritual authority. He urges believers to rediscover the power of daily prayers rooted in the Psalms—especially Psalm 23—which he claims can accomplish more in spiritual warfare than many popular worship songs ever could. “If you want breakthrough, prayer starts—and from prayer, worship flows,” he declares with conviction.This message isn't about style—it's about spiritual depth. Reverend Ben walks listeners through Romans 15:13, emphasizing that true joy and peace come from the God of hope, not from fleeting emotional moments. He addresses the inner conflict that so many believers face today—faith vs. fear—and uses the vivid imagery of “two boxers in the ring” to describe the intensity of the spiritual battle within.One of the most powerful moments in this episode is his reflection on the woman with the issue of blood from Luke 8. Using this story as a metaphor, Cooper asks: Are you willing to get low, to fight through the crowd, to get on your hands and knees if that's what it takes to reach Jesus? In a world filled with noise, distraction, and crowd-driven Christianity, this call to personal pursuit of Christ is both challenging and deeply liberating.Reverend Ben Cooper's message is clear: It's time for the church to move beyond surface-level worship and reclaim its spiritual authority through prayer, Scripture, and Holy Spirit-led worship. This episode will challenge your view of what worship is, stir your spiritual hunger, and equip you to stand firm in an age of compromise.
Samson has hit bottom. He ended up with his eyes gouged out, grinding grain like an ox, mocked by his enemies. And maybe that's where some of you are. Not literally, but spiritually. Shamed. Stuck. Beaten down. But here's the hope: Failure is an event, not a person. When Samson prayed, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please strengthen me just once more…”, he was stepping back into his calling. He was giving his last breath not for himself, but for God's purposes.
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "When Tragedy Strikes", Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).1. As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. 2. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?3. My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me all day long, “Where is your God?”4. These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go to the house of God under the protection of the Mighty One with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng.5, Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.6. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.7. Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.8. By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life.9. I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?”10. My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?”11. Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. 1. Vindicate me, my God, and plead my cause against an unfaithful nation. Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked. 2. You are God my stronghold. Why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?3. Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4. Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God.5. Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.Psalm 42 and 43 (NIV)
Today is the fifth Sunday of our current sermon series: On the Potter's WheelCan we know what God cares about?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "When Tragedy Strikes", Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).1. As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God. 2. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?3. My tears have been my food day and night, while people say to me all day long, “Where is your God?”4. These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go to the house of God under the protection of the Mighty One with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng.5, Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.6. My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon—from Mount Mizar.7. Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.8. By day the Lord directs his love, at night his song is with me—a prayer to the God of my life.9. I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?”10. My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?”11. Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. 1. Vindicate me, my God, and plead my cause against an unfaithful nation. Rescue me from those who are deceitful and wicked. 2. You are God my stronghold. Why have you rejected me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?3. Send me your light and your faithful care, let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy mountain, to the place where you dwell. 4. Then I will go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the lyre, O God, my God.5. Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.Psalm 42 and 43 (NIV)
Emotional impulsiveness can derail even the strongest of men. Samson was physically powerful and divinely gifted, but he was emotion-driven rather than Spirit-led. Samson allowed his emotions, particularly anger and pride, to dictate his actions, leading to a cycle of revenge, violence, and, ultimately, loss. We must reject emotional impulsiveness and instead pursue humility, accountability, and self-awareness, and admit our need for God's help and strength.
Emotional impulsiveness can derail even the strongest of men. Samson was physically powerful and divinely gifted, but he was emotion-driven rather than Spirit-led. Samson allowed his emotions, particularly anger and pride, to dictate his actions, leading to a cycle of revenge, violence, and, ultimately, loss. We must reject emotional impulsiveness and instead pursue humility, accountability, and self-awareness, and admit our need for God's help and strength.
Today is the fourth Sunday of this sermon series: On the Potter's WheelHow do you make good moral/ethical decisions in real time?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: The Lord's Day", Video Presentation, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 8. “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10. but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (Exodus 20:8-11 NIV)
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: The Lord's Day", Video Presentation, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 8. “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. 9. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, 10. but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your male or female servant, nor your animals, nor any foreigner residing in your towns. 11. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy. (Exodus 20:8-11 NIV)
Today is the third Sunday of this sermon series: On the Potter's WheelIn what area of your life is fear too loud a voice?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Samson was a man set apart by God from birth, empowered with supernatural strength, and bound by Nazarite vows. Despite his divine calling, Samson repeatedly made destructive choices—he was a powerful man with a dangerously weak will. He had so much God-given potential, yet again and again, he made poor decisions and self-destructed. But while Satan loves to make strong men weak, God delights in making weak men strong.
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: The Church", Children's Time, VBS Kids, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service). 15. “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” 16. Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” 17. Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. 18. And I tell you that you are Peter,[a] and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. (Matthew 16:15-18 NIV)
Today is the second Sunday of this sermon series: On the Potter's WheelWho or what ill you "bend the knee for"?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Salvation and Grace", Baptism Video, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 16. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17 NIV) 8. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9. not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV)
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Salvation and Grace", Baptism Video, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 16. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17 NIV) 8. For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— 9. not by works, so that no one can boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV)
Happy Father's Day! Today is the first Sunday of this sermon series: On the Potter's WheelOn a scale of one to ten, how important to you is making wise decisions?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Man and Sin", Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Serviced). 26. Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27. So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:26-26 NIV)
Is modern Christian music too worldly… or are we just uncomfortable with God moving through a sound we don't control? In this video, I unpack why I actually love artists like Brandon Lake, Forrest Frank, and TAYA, and share my own story of being delivered from secular music. From screaming lyrics in the pit to shouting praises in worship, I've seen firsthand how music can be either a doorway to bondage, or a weapon of freedom. So, in this vid, we'll talk about the difference between legalism and real discernment, why worship doesn't need to sound traditional to be anointed, and how God is reclaiming sound in this generation.
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Man and Sin", Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Serviced). 26. Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” 27. So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:26-26 NIV)
Today is the last Sunday of the sermon series: WITH - In All Ways - For Always; exploring the nature of our relationship with God.Does God set us up for failure or success?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
The post Why Modern Worship Songs Are Leaving Out What Matters Most appeared first on Straight Truth Podcast.
In this episode, Dr. Richard Caldwell addresses the growing trend of shallow worship music that seeks to be accessible to unbelievers by removing biblical language. He explains why true worship requires spiritual regeneration and must be grounded in scripture, not emotional appeal or cultural relatability. The discussion highlights the danger of seeker-driven worship services and emphasizes that Christian worship is for believers and must teach, edify, and proclaim the truth of God using the very words He chose to reveal Himself.
In this episode, Dr. Richard Caldwell addresses the growing trend of shallow worship music that seeks to be accessible to unbelievers by removing biblical language. He explains why true worship requires spiritual regeneration and must be grounded in scripture, not emotional appeal or cultural relatability. The discussion highlights the danger of seeker-driven worship services and emphasizes that Christian worship is for believers and must teach, edify, and proclaim the truth of God using the very words He chose to reveal Himself.
A new MP3 sermon from Founders Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Why Modern Worship Songs Are Leaving Out What Matters Most Subtitle: 01 Straight Truth Podcast Speaker: Richard Caldwell Jr. Broadcaster: Founders Baptist Church Event: Podcast Date: 6/6/2025 Bible: Colossians 3:16; Isaiah 6:3 Length: 11 min.
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: God the Spirit", Staff Anniversary Recognition, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 16. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17. the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. 26. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. (John 14:16-17, 26 NIV)
Today is the 6th Sunday of the sermon series: WITH - In All Ways - For Always; exploring the nature of our relationship with God.How invested is God in you?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "What Has God Called You To?", Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 20. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” 9 . Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 2:20-21; 6:9-10 NIV)
Chris Skoglund (Pastor of Recreation & Family Ministries), "What Has God Called You To?", Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 20. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” 9 . Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians 2:20-21; 6:9-10 NIV)
Today is the 5th Sunday of the sermon series: WITH - In All Ways - For Always; exploring the nature of our relationship with God.What place does God have in your life?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Today is the 4th Sunday of the sermon series: WITH - In All Ways - For Always; exploring the nature of our relationship with God.How is God changing you?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: God the Son", Children's Time, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 1. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2. He was with God in the beginning. 3. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome[ it. (John 1:1-5 NIV)
Happy Mother's Day! Today is the third Sunday of the sermon series: WITH - In All Ways - For Always; exploring the nature of our relationship with God.Why has God chosen you? How does God think of you?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: God the Father", Presentation of High School Graduates, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).14. God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.'” (Exodus 3:14 NIV)
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: God the Father", Presentation of High School Graduates, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service).14. God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.'” (Exodus 3:14 NIV)
Today is the second Sunday of the sermon series: WITH - In All Ways. For Always, exploring the nature of our relationship with God.With 8.2 billion people on earth, how important are you in God's eyes?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Holy Scripture", Violin/Organ duet, Children's Time, Choir, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service). 16. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17. so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (II Timothy 3:16-17 NIV)
In this episode of the Westminster Effects Doxology Podcast, we dive into the importance of lyrical analysis and discernment in evaluating popular worship music. They discuss why they critique prominent figures and ministries like Elevation Worship, Steven Furtick, Bethel Music, and Cory Asbury, emphasizing the need to examine songs and teachings through the lens of Sola Scriptura and Tota Scriptura. The conversation explores how theological accuracy in worship impacts the church and offers guidance on approaching discernment thoughtfully without "dropping nukes" on every issue.Subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, Overcast, and YouTube.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and X.Join the discussion at the Westminster Effects Green Room.Buy your guitar effects at westminstereffects.com.
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Principles of Faith - What We Believe: Holy Scripture", Violin/Organ duet, Children's Time, Choir, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service). 16. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17. so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (II Timothy 3:16-17 NIV)
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Resurrection Freedom", Baptism Video, Video Presentation, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 31. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33. They answered him, “We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” 34. Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:31-36 NIV)
Today we begin a new sermon series: WITH - In All Ways. For Always. We'll explore the nature of our relationship with God.God wants to be WITH you! Agree or disagree?Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "Resurrection Freedom", Baptism Video, Video Presentation, Modern Worship Praise Team (11:15 Service). 31. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33. They answered him, “We are Abraham's descendants and have never been slaves of anyone. How can you say that we shall be set free?” 34. Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. 35. Now a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. 36. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. (John 8:31-36 NIV)
Happy Easter - He is Risen! Today is the final Sunday of our Lenten sermon series: Journey With JeremiahThe Journey to Easter is the only way to LIVE!Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "The Love of God", Handbells, Children's Time, Choir, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service).16. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17 NIV)8. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV)
Podcast Notes: The Future of Worship Leading with David Santistevan Episode Overview In this episode of the Church Front Worship and Tech Podcast, Luke Jackson interviews David Santistevan, a seasoned worship pastor, podcast host, and ministry coach. David shares insights from his 25 years in worship ministry, including his experience as a local church worship pastor, his five years traveling the country in an RV, and his current work helping churches develop healthy worship cultures. Time Stamps & Key Points Introduction [00:00] David opens with reflections on the current state of worship ministry Concerns about worship becoming too automated and standardized The danger of "sleepwalking through worship" when relying too heavily on technology David's Background [01:15] 25 years in worship ministry Host of the Beyond Sunday podcast for 12 years Served as a worship pastor at his home church in Pittsburgh for 12 years Sold his house and traveled in an RV with his family for 5 years Currently based in Orlando, Florida The RV Journey [03:42] Family decision to sell everything and travel Visited nearly 40 national parks and all lower 48 states Combined adventure with ministry - partnering with churches for training and workshops Recording the podcast from their RV wherever they had WiFi Beyond Sunday Podcast [05:59] Started as a blog before transitioning to a podcast Focus on practical worship ministry topics Emphasis on serving the "underdog" local church worship leader Has recorded over 330 episodes interviewing worship leaders and artists Covers everything from rehearsal techniques to team development Reconnecting with Unique Church Identity [13:12] David's concerns about homogenization in church worship "What God's doing at Bethel is wonderful, but what God's doing at my church is amazing as well" Warning against equating worship ministry success with being a worship artist Encouragement to embrace your church's uniqueness and "don't despise small beginnings" "Worship ministry isn't about writing songs or being cool... it's about loving people and making disciples" Ministry Longevity vs. Career Advancement [18:28] Discussion about the "climbing the ladder" mentality in worship ministry Importance of evaluating church culture and staff health Some worship pastors finding renewed joy in smaller churches after megachurch burnout Warning against "shiny object syndrome" - the constant pursuit of the next opportunity "Maybe instead of transplanting yourself to a team that's more put together, God is calling you to invest in your little team" Working with Different Church Cultures [22:32] David's experience serving diverse churches during his RV travels Finding common ground across different worship styles and approaches Universal desire for authenticity and encountering God Helping teams focus on playing together rather than just playing perfectly "Rehearsal practice is personal and rehearsal is relational" Over-Programmed Worship [26:22] The shift away from midweek rehearsals and its impact Getting too focused on executing flawless services Missing the relational and spiritual elements of worship preparation "We've gotten really good at pulling off excellent services... but we miss out on the presence-based flow in worship" Finding Balance Between Structure and Flow [29:36] Importance of unity with church leadership before making changes Building trust with your pastor before introducing new worship approaches The problem with "playlist worship" - hitting play and running on autopilot Practical suggestions: planning fewer songs to create more space Introducing medleys and acapella moments for more organic worship Creating Powerful Worship Moments [35:29] Planning intentional space in every worship set The power of quiet moments when the band drops out Creating opportunities for the congregation to sing without amplification "My favorite moments of worship are when the band has dropped out and the people of God are just singing at the top of their lungs" Incorporating simple refrains that don't require people to think too much The State of Worship Songwriting [40:15] Reflection on the current trends in worship songwriting Concerns about songwriting becoming an idol Provocative suggestion: "What if we just went on a worship songwriting fast for six months?" Benefits of focusing less on what's trending and more on what local congregations need Balance between developing creativity and obsessing over new songs Current Worship Influences [47:05] David mentions Aiden King's "Thank You So Much Jesus" as a recent favorite Discussion of the distinction between worship music as a listening category versus congregational worship David's love for ambient, instrumental music (particularly Hammock) The therapeutic value of music without lyrics for worship leaders Conclusion [51:02] Where to find David: Instagram and YouTube @BeyondSundayWorship David's appreciation for the Church Front ministry and resources Key Quotes "We're sounding the same, we're doing the same songs in the same way... it's almost like we're on autopilot a little bit." "Don't despise how small your church is right now... that's the beauty of the body of Christ." "Worship ministry isn't about writing songs, it's not about being cool... it's about loving people. It's about making disciples." "My favorite moments of worship are when the band has dropped out and the people of God are just singing at the top of their lungs." "What if we just went on a worship songwriting fast for six months? What would that do for us if we just stopped writing songs and releasing worship music for a little bit?" Resources Mentioned Beyond Sunday Worship (David's ministry) Beyond Sunday podcast Aiden King's music Hammock (ambient instrumental music) Action Steps Evaluate whether your worship ministry has become too programmed or automated Plan intentional spaces in your worship sets for organic moments Consider the unique identity of your church rather than copying megachurch models Build trust with your leadership before introducing significant worship style changes Balance excellence with authenticity in your approach to worship Connect & Continue Follow David Santistevan on Instagram and YouTube @BeyondSundayWorship Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN
Dr. Brian Hill (Senior Pastor), "The Love of God", Handbells, Children's Time, Choir, Blended Worship Praise Team (8:45 Service).16. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. (John 3:16-17 NIV)8. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:8 NIV)
Today is Palm Sunday, and the sixth Sunday of our Lenten sermon series: Journey With JeremiahThe Journey to Easter is hard and requires hope to sustain us.Let's connect! Text "connect" to 513-216-9896 or click the link below: https://connect-card.com/41p3h89OBidharwIMUHR
Host Karen Jensen-Salisbury speaks with Daniel Amstutz about his many decades as a lead worshipper, and how fellow worshippers can awaken to the Life and Spirit within. Guest information: www.danielamstutzcollective.com Our website: www.oasisnetwork.org
Watch us on YouTube! https://youtu.be/t5hH5sfRHS4Can you still testify or preach after a public 'fall from Grace'? Some people say "No!". The guys break it down. Also, Modern Worship vs. Hymns: what are the positives and negatives of each expression?#joerogan #podcast #mensministry #christianliving #biblestudy #cussing #charliekirk #joerogan #jasonwhitlock #fearless #menshealth #christianliving #vincevaughn #timtebow #christianmotivation #churchmemes #mensministry #promiskeepers #timtebow #patrickbetdavid