Music at Youth Gathering - part 5

Purpose of Songs

Every song that was ever written served a purpose.  It is just as important when selecting a song for a gathering that we do it with purpose.  We should take into account the purpose the writer had when writing the song.  There is the occasional and controversial trend of worship bands leading a secular song.  While this can be effective as part of an overall theme, care should be taken considering such a course of action.  For example, a sermon or series on lust should probably not be branded with "I Want Your Sex" as sung by the same people who are anointed to lead us in engaging our maker.  Does that mean the song itself should be outlawed?  Not necessarily.  Why are you using the song?  Why that song?  Is there an alternative that is as effective in communicating the theme without relying on shock value?  If not, find someone else who knows more about music.

 

We should also take into account what purpose the song will serve during our own gathering.

 

Call to worship.  A call to worship is a song which invites the congregation to begin worship.  They declare what our intention is and what we're about to do, while simultaneously doing it.  "We're going to sing a song to you, God."  In some fellowships, it's the first song played which lets everyone know it's time to grab your coffee and sit down (don't even get me started).  Examples: We've Come to Declare; Come, Now is the Time to Worship; How Great is Our God; Mighty to Stand.

 

Vertical worship.  Vertical worship are songs sung to God, not just about God.  These songs are most appropriate for a worship gathering.  These songs use phrases such as "You are" (upward).  Examples include: Here I Am to Worship; Blessed Be Your Name; Draw Me Close; Better is One Day; Lift It.

 

Declaration/Anthem.  Declaration or Anthemic songs are songs sung about God.  These can be very emotionally inspirational and uniting of the community.  They can be a great way to conclude a gathering.  These songs will often say what we believe or what we will do.  These songs use phrases such as "God is", "He is", "we will", or some call to action like, "Tell the world that...".  Examples include: Our God is a Great God; How Great is Our God; Ancient of Days; Awesome God; Tell the World; Mighty to Stand.

 

Didactic/Teaching.  These songs teach something about doctrine or theology.  They are different from declaration or anthems in that they are designed to be informative.  A lot of children's songs are of this type, but also so many hymns.  Examples: Jesus Loves Me.

 

Prayer/Offering.  These are prayers that are sung.  These are great as special music, times of contemplation, or as a way to conclude a gathering.  Examples: You Said; Lift It.