Synopses & Reviews
The greatest challenge and responsibility in contemporary worship is distinguishing between the fire and the ashesto stoke the fire of God's presence while simultaneously disposing of the ashes of obsolete worship styles and practices. As contemporary worship moves from traditional to modern to postmodern, how can pastors and worship leaders be sure they are retaining what is essential to genuine worship even as they leave behind the practices of the past?
Ken Heer challenges church leaders to rediscover the power and significance behind the church's ancient rituals and sacraments so the fire of God's presence in them can be carried forward to present and future generations. Heer offers substantive discussion on the meaning of our rituals as well as practical guidance on transferring these ancient forms into modern and postmodern worship settings.
Synopsis
Take from the altars of the past the fire--not the ashes. French Philosopher
When God established the facility, leaders, instruments, and activities of worship in the Old Testament, he instructed the priests to never let the fire on the altar go out. Leaders need to distinguish between fire and ashes and not become so preoccupied with ashes that they lose the fire. Such is the challenge with contemporary worship. Is there fire in our past worship activity that needs to be carried into the present, while appropriately identifying and disposing the ashes?
Ken Heer writes to challenge and inspire pastors to rediscover the power and meaning behind the ancient rituals and sacraments that have defined who we are as the people of God. He offers both substantive discussion on the meaning of our rituals as well as practical ideas for transferring these ancient forms into modern and postmodern worship settings.
About the Author
Ken Heer is an ordained minister and holds degrees from Indiana Wesleyan and Ball State Universities. As a pastor, educator, and church leader, he has been helping people take the next step in their walk of faith for more than forty years.