The following article by Don Chapman appeared on WorshipIdeas.com. I realize for some of you who do not believe we should use instruments in worship this question is a no-brainer. Actually, it's a no-brainer for me, too, as I don't believe that we should hire non-Christians to lead worship, whether they are instrumenalists or singers.
However, what do the rest of you think?
Quote:
Hire Non-Christians?
by Don Chapman
Should you hire a non-Christian? I never would hire a non-Christian vocalist to lead worship [or sing special music], but paying a local professional instrumentalist might reap rewards beyond just having better music. The musician might become a believer or experience spiritual renewal.
There are those who would argue that playing an instrument is leading worship, too. I personally believe the message is in the words, sung by vocalists. If you're singing with tracks, would you say the tracks are leading worship?
At one church I inherited a paid guitarist who probably shouldn't have been there. He was a local studio guy and could do anything, but his heart [and soul] was obviously not in it. Church was just another "gig." He just didn't gel with the team. We saw no evidence of spiritual progression. Eventually he was hired away by a local megachurch who paid more - problem solved.
One time I was in a pinch and hired a drummer who was a local legend. This guy had lived in Nashville for years and had played with top names in entertainment. After the praise set was finished, we stepped outside for a few minutes and talked. He said "You know, I just don't believe all this Christianity stuff." He was also a little negative during rehearsal, so, remembering the guy I just talked about in the previous paragraph, I decided I wouldn't hire him again.
Miraculously, this guy was hired on a steady basis by the same local megachurch, developed a relationship with the pastor and became a textbook salvation case - a totally transformed life. I learned my lesson and will never prejudge someone's spiritual potential again. Since then I've hired an unsaved bass player who, after playing with us for two years, had a wonderful spiritual awakening and accepted Christ.
So should you pay or not? It sure worked for my ministry. I can tell you this - don't forget to ask God for advice when you're setting the standards for your ministry. He'll certainly guide your decisions.
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