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| Special Assistant to CAC President, Pastor T.D. Asokeji |
By Rachael Oke
Contrary to the common misconception by some song ministers that worship is slow songs, the Special Assistant to President of CAC Nigeria and Overseas, Pastor Tunde D. Asokeji, has corrected the notion, emphasizing that true worship is a way of life.
The clergy made this clear while addressing music ministers on Friday, July 26, 2024, during the first workshop session at the CAC IMMC held in Ikeji-Arakeji, Osun State.
Speaking on the topic "Exploring Contemporary Worship Music Styles" Pastor Asokeji clarified that worship is fundamentally about acknowledging God's character and actions and is not defined by the tempo of the music.
In his words, he said, "Simply put, worship is acknowledging God for who He is."
"Today, we hear people say during worship, 'Let's raise our hands to worship,' usually in slow music, then after some minutes, you go into the praise session. It is not right. The speed or tempo of music does not determine whether it is worship or praise."
Citing the example of Job in Job 1:10, Pastor Asokeji noted that worship is not conditional; rather, it is done out of total devotion to God regardless of circumstances.
"After Job had his travail and lost all, Job stood up, and the next thing he did was worship. So when you sing, 'No matter what I face, when success comes my way, I will praise the Lord,' it is a conditional praise. That means when failure comes your way, you will not praise the Lord." He explained.
"However, if you know who God is, whether you succeed or fail, He deserves our worship." He noted.
Pastor Asokeji further emphasized that many Christians, despite their best intentions, may unknowingly use unscriptural names or titles when praising God due to their limited understanding.
He noted that such worship is often done in sincerity but with incomplete knowledge. Nevertheless, he stressed that regardless of our limitations, acknowledging God is essential.
He went on to emphasize that true worship extends far beyond singing songs or giving offerings; it is a way of life in which one gratifies and glorifies God.
He illustrated this point by citing the examples of Daniel, Joseph, and the three Hebrews who demonstrated devotion to God through their choices in a foreign land. Their decisions, he noted, were a form of worship, showcasing how true worship is a lifestyle that gratifies and glorifies God.
He further emphasized that a Christian who has truly embraced worship as a way of life doesn't need to announce it to others or seek validation; their life becomes a testament to the transformative power of worship.
"Any believer who has taken worship as his or her lifestyle will reflect such. You don't have to tell somebody before they know you are a Christian." He noted.
Pastor Asokeji identified seven essential forms of worship: Yadah, Tehilah, Barak, Halal, Towdah, Zamar, and Shabach.
He went on to explore the dimensions of worship, emphasizing that it is not just about where or when we worship but also how we worship, saying,
"We are meant to worship anywhere, everywhere, anytime, but not anyhow. You must come with clean hands and a pure heart."
Relating music to worship, the clergy explained that music is a vessel used to convey information, adding that worship music is putting music to convey worship.
He then identified being born again, having a deep understanding of Scripture, developing skillfulness, and engaging in regular rehearsals as criteria for effective biblical worship.
The workshop session concluded on a high note with a vibrant practical session of worship through songs, allowing participants to put the lessons learned into practice and experience the power of worship in songs.
Below is the link to watch the message: