IT’S NOT ABOUT THE MUSIC
A journey into worship
By Dan Lucarini. Evangelical Press. 220 pages. £7.99
ISBN 978 0 852 347 270
The title of this book will attract curiosity and provoke discussion among those who are confused by the many voices claiming to answer the question ‘How should I worship God?’
Dan Lucarini is to be thanked for his careful examination of this important subject, presented in a readable, logical style, with helpful summaries. He challenges us to make it our priority to worship in a way that pleases God, points us in detail to biblical principles, and urges us to question the current unhealthy dominance of music in Christian worship.
Many may share the author’s view that worship music has become a commercial concern, entertaining and moving us emotionally, and competing with the Bible for our confidence. Some might also react to the claim that worship music is, in itself, a way into God’s presence and that its effects are the proof of the work of the Holy Spirit.
Having no doubt about the author’s genuine desire for biblical worship, I closed this book with deep disappointment at the narrow and prejudiced conclusion in the final chapter. Dan Lucarini has wisely moved from one extreme, but has arrived at the opposite extreme with little consideration for the middle ground. He describes his book as the story of a journey, but it would appear that he has now settled in a cul-de-sac.
While I appreciate and share Dan Lucarini’s heartfelt plea to examine the trends in worship music and endorse his timely warnings, it is surely dangerous to discard the large repertoire of high quality contemporary hymns which enable and encourage worship, connect with this generation and leave a legacy to the next, just as others before us have done. New trends are often viewed suspiciously, but surely each generation should find its own voice in worship, holding onto the best of the past and encouraging the best of the present. It is not difficult to find well crafted contemporary music which goes ‘hand in glove’ with words which are grounded in Scripture and fresh in expression.
I cannot recommend a book which gives no credence to those who share his concerns, understand the times, and are taking up the challenge to write and compose hymns and songs which encourage variety, quality and unity among those who worship our great God together.
Linda Mawson,
Headley Park Church, South Bristol
