When The Praises Go Up: Leading worship with power

There is no question that the role of the worship leader has been exaggerated in recent decades. Some pastors give 1/3 to 1/2 of their meeting to singing, led by a musician who has little to no theological training. For many young people choosing a church, worship leaders have become a more important factor than preachers. Mediocre preaching may be tolerated, but an incompetent worship leader can sink things fast, the rise of “worship artists” has intensified the often-unhelpful connection between contemporary music culture and congregational worship.Ultimately, our worship leader is Jesus. He is the only mediator between God and man, and the perfect man who sings God’s praise in our midst. (1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 2:12) He is our high priest who has offered the perfect sacrifice of Him to insure our entrance into the holy places. (Heb. 10:19-22) However, in spite of the all the pitfalls and abuses, musical leadership is modeled in the Old Testament (1 Chron. 15:22 and many Psalms) and can be an expression of wise pastoral care in the local church. Congregations can be taught and led as they sing God’s praise. In fact, a pastor is the ideal candidate for leading congregational singing. However, in many churches, that is just not possible. Pastors are put in the position of finding someone to “lead worship.” Nevertheless, who are they looking for, and what is that person’s function? An effective corporate worship leader, aided and led by the Holy Spirit, skillfully combines biblical truth with music to magnify the worth of God and the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, thereby motivating the gathered church to join him in proclaiming and cherishing the truth about God and seeking to live all of life for the glory of God.

Harold Mawela is a worshiper, musician, pastor, inspirational speaker, writer, teacher, producer and songwriter who has been actively involved for the last 20 years in the “worship revolution” which has dramatically affected the Church. He was part of Snethemba duo nominated for summer awards and metro fm awards. Over 50 of his songs have been recorded, and many are sung throughout the world. Harold has also led worship in The Apostolic Faith Mission conferences both nationally and internationally, he is founder of mawela music he is also a senior pastor at AFM Akasia.