There is an old trend in religion that I would label 'synthesized spirituality', and Pop-Christianity is not alone in its use of it. I am talking about the use of man-made things to elicit a reaction in the congregation that they then regard as the Spirit moving them. I have seen it time and again in many different churches. The music builds with each new song, generating a sense of excitement in the congregation then slows with the last song to create a hush. This is when you are supposed to feel like the Spirit is washing over you, preparing you to receive His Word. Unfortunately you are just feeling the influence of the music.
That music is powerful is a known fact. A simple song can take you back decades in your memory and reinstall the emotions you have associated with it for a time. It is easy to imagine many mistaking this as something supernatural, to feel like you are connected to a higher power. Recently I took my family to a very large church in Northern Kentucky that utilized a band for its worship. Drums, electric guitars, keyboard, the whole nine. As soon as the music, which was very contemporary, driving music, began to play; people started holding up 'Holy hands'. So, I assume that these people were feeling the presence of God through the music and held their hands up in response to His majesty and power? Okay, fine; I do find it odd that the music brings them this tangible sense of his presence but when the service featured Scripture, the Word of our living God, nary a hand could be seen! Surely if the masses could feel the presence of God from the music, they would be exultant at his Word! Sadly, no. The spirituality was only a product of the musical manipulation. I have been moved by music, but much more so by the Holy Scriptures.
1 comment:
Fantastic, Pete!
What you have described is EXACTLY why some churches use the music they do--so people can think they have been in the presence of God (or "experienced" God) based on their feelings. Our culture is totally sensually based--our music, art, clothing, etc. It is to appeal to the senses.
If they can't appeal to the senses, then the crowds won't continue to attend. It's the usual mentality of "get the crowds to come any way we can". So sad. God doesn't need a show or experience to reach people. I'm sure it does the exact opposite, actually. People have only experienced "church", not the Living God.
People should just get in the Word--now THERE'S life!
Blessings,
Jill J
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