[The Ghost of FReepers Past]

I attended a Brethern service once and found it extremely boring -- except that I was touched by the devotion of this people. The women wore head coverings and I didn't care for that at all. But it was not significant. What mattered was that these people were bowing in humility before their Creator. They were praising and worshiping their Savior. They acknowledged their sins. They asked for forgiveness and guidance. They sought to know God and to reflect His holiness as well as His love. It was a spiritual experience.

I attended a charismatic service with a "speaking-in-tongues" friend of mine. She was a very dear and spiritual friend. She loved God with all her heart. I do not believe she had a special prayer language, but I do believe God loved her, and that he understood her humanness and the sincerity of her heart. Her church was full of lively worshipers just like her. I had a great time worshipping in my own way amongst these "crazy" people.

Man looks at the outward appearance. God looks at the heart. That's why I think we can miss the truth on both sides of this issue (I'm not saying that you are missing it). Church should not have to be "sold" to people. If it does, then it is not the NT kind, in my opinion. A church that is dying needs an injection of life from the only One who can give true spiritual life. It does not need to buy fancy pre-packaged productions that include the latest Hollywood flick. At the same time, God does not need us to abuse ourselves with boredom either. But bowing humbly before God is not boring to those truly connected to Him.

I hope this makes sense.

[11th Earl of Mar]

I try not to be one of those who tell others how they have to worship God.

What ever music people want to use to do it is fine with me.

My main gripe is with "entertainment" music in churches. The choir, the soloist, etc.

I don't recall ever being taught in Scripture to worship God by watching someone else do it.