The Function of the Choir and Conductor in Worship

Many times when you go to church, a choir will be singing on stage. It is especially popular during the Christmas season. I have often found myself wondering why there is a choir and what purpose they were designed to serve.

The choir and the music director serve a support role in the worship service. The music should help put the people's hearts and focus on God and prepare their hearts for the preaching.

We are commanded to praise God throughout the scriptures. Psalm 149:1 says, "Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints." It is pretty clear that we are to sing to the Lord. We serve God and people. I Thessalonians 2:19-20 says, "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy." We are here to minister to others.

The music program of the local church should be a ministry to the people and bring praise to God. The choir is an extension of the music program at a church. The music that the choir director chooses and the choir sings should do several things. First, it should inspire. Worship music should inspire us to noble living. It should make us despise lowly sinful things. It should also inspire us to have a dedicated life-long relationship with Christ. It can inspire us to offer our human best for His divine purpose in our own unselfish service.

Second, music should encourage. It should encourage us through the difficult times of life as well as the mountain tops of life.

Third, music should teach. Music is a great tool that can teach doctrine to people and children alike. During many difficult times of life, comforting words from a song have been brought to my mind, and I am reminded of the great truths of scriptures.

Last, music should preach Christ. Music is a great tool of evangelism as well. Our church musicians are not just there for the saved, but they are also preaching Christ to the lost.

Choirs and their directors have a big job in front of them, but they are there to praise God and to serve people. Isn't it wonderful that God has chosen to use us to bring glory to Him and to bring others to Him?