Listen "Arts is about serving"
Episode Synopsis
SERVICE TEAM MINI-SERIES: Theology of ArtsStu, Joel, and guest co-host Brayden (Soul Revival’s Arts pastor) explore the significance of the Arts service the context of church ministry and how it moves beyond music to a broader theological vision. They open with reflections on why communal singing has declined in modern culture, despite its historical and emotional power. Drawing from history, village life, and the COVID-era sea shanty revival, the hosts highlight the rich tradition of singing as a bonding and memory-shaping activity.They link this to the church’s continued practice of communal singing, reflecting on how music has evolved from communal to individualised consumption and how this shift impacts church gatherings. The conversation critiques the reduction of “worship” to just music, asserting that worship encompasses all of life.From there, they unpack the theological and cultural reasons behind Soul Revival’s use of the term “Arts” rather than just “music team.” This encompasses up-front roles like preaching and prayer, as well as behind-the-scenes elements like sound and tech—all contributing to church.They concludeswith a discussion of how songs can shape doctrine and memory, the growing trend of writing more scripturally faithful songs, and the value of including elements like confession and liturgy. The team reaffirms their aim to build a culture of worship rooted in community, theology, and creativity—not just a roster of roles.00:00 Intro07:40 Why we don’t sing in groups anymore (outside church)17:00 Singing in historical and cultural context—UK, wars, villages30:15 How technology changed music from communal to individual43:00 Church music as counter-cultural, creating community52:10 What the “arts team” includes—beyond just music1:00:00 Why worship is more than just singing1:13:00 The importance of Bible reading, prayer, and preaching as worship1:24:30 Corporate experience vs. individualism in worship1:35:00 Singing psalms, not just poetic lyrics—scripture in song1:47:00 Emotional vs. theological focus in music1:56:00 Ending on the richness of gathering together and sober joyDISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODEKing Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard's publishing live performancesNugs.net live concert platformMichael W. Smith – “Our God is an Awesome God”Rich MullinsAnglican Liturgy and Prayer BookSea shanty revival during COVIDCONTACT USShock Absorber Email: [email protected]: shockabsorber.com.auSoul Revival Shop: soulrevivalchurch.com/shopExplore more here
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