The Role of the Music Ministry in Today’s Church

                         By Kevin Mansco 

The church has a tremendous challenge of having a voice that is heard in a noisy society.  The church has to be able to spread “The Good News” in such a time where “anything goes” seems to be the mental motto.  The challenge of drawing souls to Christ is more difficult than ever.  How can this be done?  Well, one such way of achieving this is through the power of music. 

Music has the distinction of being universal.  Love for music is shared worldwide.  It has a unique gift in the sense that it can penetrate the mind without permission.  A certain song being played can trigger a special moment from the past.  Music, subconsciously, has the power to affect emotion.  When right, it is certainly something you can “feel”.  This is why music plays such a vital role in the church. 

Many churches realize the drawing power of music.  An excellent music ministry can draw many people to the church.  Through the power of music, church choirs can have a serious impact on the direction of someone’s life.  Life or death decisions can be influenced by what is sung and preached in church.  Church choirs speak the words, through song, that the congregation can’t speak for themselves.  This is why it is so important to maintain musical excellence. 

The music ministry plays the role of table setter in the church.  It sets the table while the pastor brings the food.  The table that is set should be that of fine china, exquisite centerpieces, fine linen napkins, the best silverware, and crystal glasses.  This will cause the congregation to have a greater expectation of the food they are about to receive.  In many cases, our church choirs are guilty of giving the congregation plastic forks, paper napkins, and styrofoam cups. 

The music ministry does NOT save souls.  Souls are saved by the preached word.  Romans 10:14-15 

“How, then can they call on the one they have not believed in?  And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?  And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?  And how can they preach unless they are sent?  As it is written, how beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” 

However, if the church has a lackluster music ministry, then no one will be around to hear that “good news”.  If they are around, then the pastor has the burden of preaching to a congregation that is frustrated from enduring music that doesn’t enhance, but offends. 

The place of music in the worship and life of believers has been one of prominence since the days of David.  Then, as now, a particular group of skilled musicians and singers was selected to assist in the worship of God through excellence in music.  The congregation looked upon this group as a leadership team committed to preparation and holiness.  I believe that in order to have an effective music ministry, we must be willing to carry on the tradition.