Date
5-25-2023
Department
School of Music
Degree
Doctor of Philosophy
Chair
Scott Connell
Keywords
worship, worship theology, worship principles, worship planning, pastoral training, seminary, sermon writing, sermon preparation, sermon delivery, spiritual growth, spiritual formation, church leadership, church growth, liturgy
Disciplines
Christianity | Liturgy and Worship
Recommended Citation
Newbill, Janicka E., "Embedding the Theology and Principles of Worship in Pastoral Training and Sermon Preparation" (2023). Doctoral Dissertations and Projects. 4402.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/4402
Abstract
A current literature investigation exposes a deficit in encouraging pastors and preachers to embed theology and principles of worship in their sermon preparation and pastoral training. This presents a concern when churchgoers gather in person or virtually to hear a sermon to strengthen their Christian walk each week. In addition, each year, seminary students and local church organizations graduate ministry leaders trained and prepared to deliver sermons designed to meet the spiritual needs of churchgoers. Yet, upon closer examination, there exist underpinning issues. Churchgoers are lacking in their understanding of worship. The Association of Theological Schools exposes a noticeable gap in the education and preparation of individuals seeking pastoral responsibilities in our churches for the subject of worship. Pastors and preachers are not usually formally trained in worship beyond a connection to liturgy or music. This presents a challenge for pastors and preachers who desire their congregations to grow in their understanding of reverencing God in their daily life. This qualitative study provides a rationale for the importance of pastors, preachers, and churchgoers to understand worship theology and principles. This study further delineates how pastors and preachers can deepen their churchgoers’ knowledge of worship theology and principles. In summation, the intentionality of pastors and preachers embedding worship theology and principles in their sermon planning and the delivery of their sermons is vital to the spiritual formation of church leaders and churchgoers who have an ultimate desire to live an authentic lifestyle of worship.
