CM3230: Worship Leading

Course Overview

Worship Leading

Course No: CM3230                                      Professor: Dr. R. Lands

Course Title: Worship Leading

Course No: CM3230

Credits: 3

Prerequisite: None

Course Description:

This undergraduate-level course, based on Bob Kauflin’s influential book “Worship Matters,” is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead worship that magnifies the greatness of God. The course explores the theological, practical, and relational aspects of worship leadership, emphasizing the importance of the worship leader’s heart, mind, and life. Students will engage with key concepts such as the role of the Trinity in worship, the careful selection and planning of worship music, and the balance of tradition and innovation.

Through a combination of readings, reflective essays, practical assignments, and academic articles, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of what it means to lead worship that is both theologically sound and practically effective. The course also addresses the healthy tensions and relationships that are inherent in worship leadership, providing guidance on how to navigate these complexities within a church context.

By the end of the course, students will be prepared to create worship experiences that not only engage and motivate the congregation but also glorify God and proclaim the gospel. A 50-question final exam will assess students’ mastery of the material, ensuring they are well-equipped for leadership in worship settings.

Course Objectives:

• Understand the biblical foundations of worship leadership.
• Explore the personal and theological dimensions of worship.
• Develop practical skills for leading worship that magnifies God’s greatness.
• Navigate the tensions and relationships involved in worship leadership.
• Apply principles learned to real-world worship settings.

Required Textbook:

The required textbook for this course is “Worship Matters: Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God” by Bob Kauflin. This book is an essential resource that will guide our exploration of the theological foundations, practical skills, and relational dynamics involved in worship leadership. Kauflin’s insights provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the vital role of worship in the life of the church.

Students are expected to read the textbook thoroughly, as it will be the primary source for course discussions, assignments, and the final exam. The book is available for purchase at major retailers, and students are encouraged to obtain their copy before the course begins to ensure they can keep up with the reading schedule. All assignments, discussions, and exam questions will draw heavily from the material presented in this textbook.

Textbook Details:

• Title: Worship Matters: Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God
• Author: Bob Kauflin
• Publisher: Crossway Books
• ISBN-13: 978-1581348248
• Library of Congress Catalog Number: BS680.W78K38 2008