Intro to the Theology & Practice of Worship

The biblical concept of worship and the appropriate utilization of music in its public forms. Identifies the conditions, qualities, and ingredients that most enhance the integrity and meaningfulness of public worship.

This course contributes to the fulfillment of the core outcomes for the Master of Divinity degree with three specific goals:

1. To examine the biblical foundation for the authentic worship of God.

2. To develop practical skills in planning and leading public worship.

3. To explore issues related to the use of music in public worship.

Cognitive Objectives

1. The biblical foundations for the worship of God.

Note: a one-hour course includes approximately 60 hours of outside study. However, the research component of this course moves 10 hours of in-class time to off-site research.

1. Reading Assignments (15 hours)

Students must read, at familiarity level, 500 pages from the book list. Students must also read all printed supplements distributed in class. due: October 16

2. Written Application (15 hours)

Students must write a ten-page paper on music in worship. This project is to address the value of music as an element of worship, the current use and misuse of music in evangelical churches, the current challenges facing worship leaders, and possible responses to those challenges. This is to be accomplished with a study group comprised of 3-5 students. The group must meet at least once to discuss the project, and the paper must be read by at least one other member of the study group before it is submitted. due: October 16

3. Worship Research (30 hours)

Students must participate in a cross-cultural worship research project. Students will choose from three cross-cultural ministry options and will approach the project as part of a group. The research results will take two forms. Each student will write a 10-page paper. Each group will develop and deliver a 60-minute presentation to the class. Details for each of these will be provided in first class session. due: December 4

Sept. 18 Emphasis: understanding the concept of worship

Oct. 2 Emphasis: understanding the mechanics of worship

Oct. 16 Emphasis: understanding the dynamics of worship

Oct. 30 Group Research

Nov. 13 Group Research

Dec. 4 Research Presentations

A+ 99-100% A 95-98% A- 94-93%

B+ 92-91% B 90-88% B- 87-86%

C+ 85-84% C 83-81% C- 80-79%

D+ 78-77% D 76-74% D- 73-70%

1. Attendance

Student attendance will be recorded for each class. One unexcused absence is permitted. Any absence beyond that one may decrease the course standing by one full grade. It is the responsibility of each student to obtain any missed material or assignment instructions from others students.

2. Written Assignments

All written assignments must be submitted on time, at the beginning of class. Late papers will be reduced one letter grade per week unless a valid excuse is provided and approved.

Unless the professor indicates otherwise, papers must be written to a near-thesis standard, in accordance with MLA. They must be typed and include a title page with the student’s name and box number on it. English grammar, idiom and spelling must be up to graduate level. Qualities valued include clarity, conciseness, comprehensiveness, cohesiveness, and correctness.

Note: 10% of the grade will be on "form," i.e., conformity to the above standards. The purpose for this is to motivate Western Seminary students to present work in a manner that reflects the quality of the content.