Worship vs. Concerts | |
Public Worship | Musical Concert |
God-centered | Man-centered |
A necessity (required by God) | Not a necessity (not required by God) |
Led by an ordained minister | Performed by musicians |
Contains all the biblical elements of worship: prayer, congregational singing, reading of the Holy Scriptures, preaching, sacraments, vows | Does not contain all the elements of worship |
Does not contain any elements not required (in worship, whatever is not command by God is forbidden) | Often contains elements inappropriate for worship (e.g. video clips, dance, drama, special effects, applause) |
Music chosen primarily for its fidelity to Scripture, God-centered focus, and ability to communicate truth | Music chosen primarily for its crowd appeal (e.g., beat); man-centered focus; may contain false doctrine |
Conducted under the oversight of ordained elders | Promoted by a profit-seeking entrepreneur |
Funded by the tithes of God’s people | Funded by ticket sales |
Purpose is to glorify God by doing those things that he requires in his Word, out of a heart of obedience | Purpose is to entertain attendees who like a certain kind of music |
God’s people of all ages must go | Attracts people mostly of a particular age group who choose to go | Emphasis on the worship of God and proclamation of his truth | Emphasis on the enjoyment of a musical performance |
Must be done on the Sabbath; may be done the other six days | May not be done on the Sabbath; may be done on the other six days |