| 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 commanded 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 |
