S) "31 Now these are those whom David appointed over the service of song in the house of the Lord, after the ark rested there."
1 Chronicles 6:31 (NASB)
O) This seems like such a departure from what I typically see in the church today. It seems like most worship teams I see are assembled based on two criteria, talent and volunteering. If a person has skill and will, they seem to make it onto the stage. It isn't to say that churches don't also hold their worship team members accountable to a higher standard (although, that's not always the case). I do think that, mostly, it's a position and ministry that is seen with a fair amount of responsibility. It's just that, I don't know that I've ever heard of a person who was told by leadership that they must serve on the worship team. Sometimes, a person may be on the team out of need, but I don't know that this is the same thing. How differently would a worship service go, if the worship leader wasn't the most talented musician or singer in the church, but was elected based on their humility and devotion?
A) I think there are a few things at work, there. Primarily, I'd say it comes down to the way leadership is seen in our culture. If we know our leaders are elected by God (see Romans 13:1), then we will be obedient to our leaders (unless they are leading in sin). But, that's rarely the case, as the rebellious heart of our culture (against all authorities, not just godly authority), has affected the heart of our church. On the flip-side, a person in a leadership position may need to be more bold in their obedience, and trust what they are hearing as God's command. It's hard to do, with an obstinate people, but fear of God must always trump fear of man.
P) Father, discipline me to be obedient to You, first and foremost. Continue to show me the absolute authority of Your word, so that I will be humble and teachable, able to be led, and willing to obey; not just You, God, but the authorities You establish over me. Change my heart to fear You more, and fear man less. I want to be completely devoted and obedient to You, LORD. I will submit to authority, and I will lead in obedience. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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