By reducing worship to an issue of preference, we've reduced its importance, made ourselves into a cultural laughingstock, and hindered the church's mission. Read more

The problem is that these "rediscovered" hymns aren't really hymns at all. Read more

The only tradition in contemporary church culture is reinvention. That is the only Lord and Savior they seem to know. Read more

"Make America Great Again" is not Christian in statement or purpose, and its blatant use of the Trump campaign slogan is something that church should quickly, unequivocally shun. Read more

The New Testament is clear that to follow Christ is to affirm that he is Lord, not Caesar. Some of us need that reminder this time of year. Read more

At last night’s “Celebrate Freedom Rally,” the choir and orchestra of First Baptist Dallas premiered a new song.  As of today, it is now available in the CCLI database for any church who wishes to sing it. Here is the text: Make America great again Make America great again Lift the torch of freedom all across the land Step into the future joining hand in hand And make America great again Yes make America great again. Americans from ev’ry corner... Read more

I have to tell you, folks, it's not always clear if the American evangelical church thinks of itself first as American or Christian. Read more

In all seriousness, can someone please tell me how this is in any way appropriate for corporate worship? What would a Christian from another country say? Would they recognize their place in this church? What about those for whom this has not been such a great country? What about those who still bear the stripes callously inflicted upon their ancestors’ backs? What about those who don’t claim the Christian faith? Would they come away from such a celebration understanding anything... Read more

Oh sure, not everyone is a potential Callas or Pavarotti. But the truth is that everyone can sing, because singing is a skill, not a talent. Read more

“Oceans” is the greatest worship song ever. – Every Contemporary Worship Leader Ever, apparently If you’ve been in contemporary worship circles, you already get what I’m talking about. In case you’ve somehow been fortunate enough to avoid it, or you’ve been living under a rock for the past four years, I’ll provide a little background. “Oceans” is a 2013 hit by the Australian music empire Hillsong. And when I say “hit,” I mean it. “Oceans” parked its waterlogged strains atop... Read more