path-523-031-williams

MA in Pastoral Ministry

PATH 523-031 Worship: Word & Music (CRN: )

Class Resources:

Course Syllabus

Professor: David Williams, PhD
Date: June 1-5, 2025
Location: Garber Auditorium, Chan Shun, 日韩AV, Berrien Springs, MI 49104

Course Description:

Explores the theology of worship and the interrelatedness of preaching, music, worship environment and other elements of corporate worship. Various worship styles and practices are considered and principles are presented that guide worship within local contexts.

This course is an introduction to the theological principles and practices of Christian worship and worship music. It establishes a biblical foundation for a theology of worship and liturgy, and the relationship between God’s Word and music in the worship experience. The history of Christian worship and music provides the student with a broad perspective when planning worship and dealing with conflict when it arises. The course focuses on pastoral leadership in worship ministry and the central issues involved in effective worship leading and planning. Within the broader context of worship ministry, special emphasis is placed on music’s role in diverse worship contexts.

The student should be able to:

1. Explain a theology of worship and music from Scripture.
2. Possess principles and methods for planning corporate worship.
3. Plan a meaningful worship experience for a diverse congregation.
4. Experience and reflect upon worship outside of the Adventist context.
5. Develop greater personal biblical and spiritual growth in personal and corporate worship.
6. Know how to evaluate and derive the theology explicit and implicit in worship practices.