As far as certain chords, styles, etc. being contrary to true worship… not necessarily how I look at things, but again, appreciate the thoughts. Can a chord itself be “holy” or “satanic” or is it the intent behind it that makes it what it is…? For instance, you mention African tribal dances… my hope is that African Christ-followers worship God with music from their own culture and community, as Western music would have no more (and probably less) potential to connect with worshipers there.

-worship music should be an outpouring of the emotion we already feel as worshipers of a good and holy God, not designed to manipulate people into an emotion, the emotion should come first. we should make the music, the music should not make us. this makes music a mediator when Christ is the only mediator between God and man. music does not bring people into the presence of God, Christ’s blood does!

-suspended cords, ethereal sounds, vague and repetitive lyrics are a few of the characteristics of this new style of “worship music” that has it’s roots in paganism and yes it does remind me of african tribal dances and such. this kind of music is like a drug that emotionally manipulates people and in my opinion it is satanic.

As far as my community understanding: I think my worship volunteers, especially the leaders, know that authenticity is key, and that means taking an uncomfortably close look at how and why we do what we do. As far as the church on a whole, probably not, as we rarely get to talk about the specifics of worship leadership in a large group setting. When we do teach on worship, I emphasize that worship is really between the community and God… those of us on stage are really just there to facilitate, to “start the conversation” and then get out of the way.

I’m curious as to your congregations knowledge of your questioning? Is it something you try to be upfront about in your leadership?