How Can I Keep From Singing: Episode 11

Episode XI: Contemporary Worship Music

The music of the church and culture have always had an interesting relationship, sometimes intentionally divergent and sometimes quite convergent. While the medieval church centered on the “otherness” of chant, Martin Luther eventually incorporated the popular style of the musical minstrels of his day with a more rhythmic and syncopated style of church singing. Mozart’s church masses sound much like his operas - the popular music of his day, though somewhat more reserved. Not surprising in our own era, there arose a more “contemporary” style of music, first emerging in youth campfire and retreat songs and later in full fledged services in the church, sometimes called “seeker services.” Over time, this movement forged its own path and particular character in the form of “praise and worship” songs, assisted in popularity through the rise of Christian radio stations. 

To some degree, its identity resonates in its rhythmic character, pop-like melodies, and instrumentation (guitars, drums, keys, etc.). However, the lyrics have evolved from more ambiguous texts (Draw Me Close to You) to updating of traditional hymns, to songs emphasizing evangelical theology (2nd birth, conversion), and are often richly centered on Christ’s story and salvation acts. In many ways, both the musical and theological content of this style of music echo the revival hymn era of the 19th century: catchy melodies, a more informal musical style, and a straightforward textual theology centered on Jesus’s gift of salvation and our personal response and transformation. Additionally, the lyrics are often written in second person language, sometimes similar to the Psalms in this manner, creating a sense of direct communication between sinner and savior. 

We’ll cover some of the more recent hits of the genre: “King of Kings”, “Our Father”, and the “Reckless Love of God”. And though the nature of Christian radio (and all radio) often makes for an emphasis on the latest and new songs, already many of the older praise and worship songs and choruses are making their way into modern hymnals. The best example of these contemporary hymns is perhaps “In Christ Alone.”

Many thanks to our special guest for today’s episode - FUMC Faithlink Worship leader, Samuel Zepeda!