The event of gathering together to worship God is often called the worship experience. It may be a regular Sunday morning service, or a special “praise and worship” concert, or some other gathering with a spiritual theme. It is considered a “good” worship service when the songs and hymns offer religious inspiration; or the preaching provides theological stimulation for the mind; or just the assembling together with like-minded believers heightens that sense of belonging. By the end of the time spent “in church” one feels invigorated. And when the service, or an aspect of it, was “really good” we may look back and talk about how we “enjoyed” it. We want to relive the experience. We may even look forward with anticipation to the next event. Perhaps it will be the same or even better.
Worship service planners and leaders may hear the positive comments about the last event and be motivated to do their best to make sure the next one lives up to the “standard” of the last experience, if not surpass it. It becomes all about creating an event that generates the kind of emotions or that stimulates the kind of excitement that makes the moment memorable.
Peter witnessed the glorious transfiguration of Jesus—when Jesus’ face shone like the sun, his clothes became white as light, and Moses and Elijah appeared (Matthew 17.2-3). Peter was so inspired by the experience in the high mountain that he proposed to set up memorial tents in that place (Matthew 17.4). Perhaps he wanted to prolong the blessed moment and to linger in that blessed place. But Peter’s enthusiasm was misdirected and came out of ignorance (Luke 9.33). God interrupts his chatter, and tells Peter to listen to Jesus (Matthew 17.5). The event was to be more than just an experience; it was an encounter with the glorious Son of God. And when one truly encounters him, the only proper response is to submit to his leadership. An encounter with God leads to a transformation that extends way beyond the moment.
On the matter of preparing and leading in worship, Pastor Mike Leuken comments: “Our success as leaders is not in designing compelling experiences but in helping people live more fully under God.” True worship is not about having an experience that we enjoy, but an encounter with the living Lord that makes a difference in our lives.
This is not to say that we shouldn’t pay attention to preparing and leading worship properly; or that a well-organized program or a well-crafted sermon is not important. But all such efforts must serve the greater purpose of helping worshipers encounter God. Also, the people who do show up for the service must come, not with the expectation to “be inspired” but with a heart ready to meet with God.
—Keith Y. Jainga