Worship Leaders are Teachers

Studies show that most people remember a very small percentage of what they hear. This means that after an average Sunday morning service, people may not remember most of what the pastor spoke, but they will be singing the chorus of the song you sang for days or weeks to come. When you lead worship, you're doing so much more than preparing people to hear your pastor preach. You are teaching and shepherding them.

"King David didn't write songs because he needed a hobby; it was his way of training people in the knowledge of God."

One of the primary ways King David taught his nation was through song. Seventy-three of the Psalms were penned by David (almost half the book), and some estimate that he may have written as many as 3,000 psalms total. The writing of these songs wasn’t because he needed a hobby; it was his way of training people in the knowledge of God. David's songs are still active today, forming the basis for much of what we still sing. Can you imagine a song that you write today being looked at, studied, and sung two thousand years from now? How would it hold up?

"Let not many of you desire to become worship leaders - John Piper"

I love what John Piper says: “Let not many of you desire to become worship leaders.” He, of course, is referring to the verse in James 3:1 where James says “Let not many of you become teachers,” because those who teach will be judged more strictly. It’s a strong statement that definitely applies to worship leaders as well. One of the most intense aspects of leadership is the higher accountability to which leaders are held. The fact that you’re given the ability to affect and influence entire rooms full of people on a weekly basis is both an honor and a sobering reality.

"Sometimes our influence can feel so weak. But I promise, you’re having an impact on your team and congregation far beyond what you can see with your eyes."

Sometimes our influence can feel so weak. But I promise, you’re having an impact on your team and congregation far beyond what you can see with your eyes. The songs you write, the songs you sing, and the way you lead both on and off the platform is teaching people.

Take a moment and consider, what are you teaching people? I'd love to hear what you find.