Publication Date

7-18-2024

Degree Granted

Ph.D.

Institution Granting Degree

Columbia Biblical Seminary of Columbia International University

Disciplines

Music | Religion

Abstract

Evangelical worship has undergone significant changes since the mid-20th century, culminating in the 1990s with the merger of two theological streams: “Praise and Worship” and “Contemporary Worship.” This research project examines the role of emotion in corporate musical worship, exploring the potential for emotionalism and the suppression of emotional expression. The study analyzes Scripture, the emotional effects of music and religious practices, and cultural influences on emotional expression in worship. Qualitative case study research involving interviews with individuals from three distinct worship environments was conducted. The goal is to develop a practical theology of the role of emotion in corporate musical worship, providing churches with guidance in achieving an appropriate emotional balance.

The research finds that there is a broad spectrum of emotional expressiveness during musical worship among evangelical churches in North America. Some churches have high-energy worship services with concert-like production, while others have more subdued services. There is concern about both emotionalism and a lack of emotion in corporate musical worship. The researcher argues that churches should strive for a balance between these two extremes.

The study’s findings have implications for pastors and worship leaders, who can use them to develop worship services that are both meaningful and engaging. The study also has implications for church members, who can use it to better understand their emotional responses to worship and to participate more fully in corporate worship.

Here are some of the key findings of the study:

  • There is concern about both emotionalism and a lack of emotion in corporate musical worship.
  • The study argues that churches should strive for a balance between these two extremes.
  • The study’s findings have implications for pastors and worship leaders, who can use them to develop worship services that are both meaningful and engaging.
  • The study also has implications for church members, who can use it to better understand their own emotional responses to worship and to participate more fully in corporate worship.

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