In Worship
Q: Why do we worship the way we do?
A: When a student approaches a difficult verse in the Bible, there is a guiding principle that they
must follow: "Context is King." This means the student must understand what is going on before and after
the verse. They must also try to determine meaning of the chapter as a whole, not just the single verse.
This principle of "Context is King" is also applied to the way we design our corporate worship services
here at Main Street. The whole message, or context, of the day is examined. We ask questions like:
"What is it that God's word is trying to convey? What action does the key scripture passage call us to
do? What worship elements best develop the message of the morning?"
In this way, we plan worship to be content-driven, not style-driven. Main Street strives to never be
classified as contemporary, blended, or traditional. We do not want to be ultra-stuffy or overly
casual. We want to be what God intended us to be; a place focused on worshiping the Savior, not a style.
Being content-driven provides the pastor, staff, worship leaders, and the congregation an opportunity
to sample from all styles and expressions of worship, assembling the best of the best in passing along
the message of the day. If a traditional hymn speaks the best, we will sing a hymn. If a funny drama
speaks the best, we will use a drama. If silence, applause, tears or laughter are the most appropriate
form of worship, then by all means follow the Spirit’s leading.
Being content-driven is very freeing for those who plan our times of corporate worship. Being
content-driven spans the generations, linking young with the not-so-young. Being content-driven allows
Main Street to avoid the trap of being classified by a worship style. Being content-driven allows us
to reach a much wider spectrum of people from all walks of life.
Finally, being content-driven is simply a Main Street blessing.