Journal

Matt Redman on 'excellence' in worship

Posted on August 27th, 2009, in the afternoon

I've been thinking a lot about the idea of 'excellence' in worship. It's a bit of a buzzword in certain circles of worship musicians. It usually means excellent musical skill and production qualities. Those are obviously good things in themselves, but I've always had slightly mixed feelings about the emphasis that gets placed on that kind of excellence.

Matt Redman addresses the issue in an interview I found online recently. I have no idea how long ago this interview took place, but I think Matt's take on things is helpful:

The Bible only tells us once to play skilfully and that is in Psalm 33 verse 3. So obviously we are meant to do that, but a lot of people have made excellence the priority. You hear of these schools of excellence, in one sense that's okay, but only if it is outweighed with the heart and the integrity of the offering. It is much better to spend time working on your heart - the other stuff is easy. Anyone can learn a few chords on the guitar.

Matt Redman, Interview

I'm enjoying Matt's new album 'We Shall Not Be Shaken' at the moment, on which more later...