Worship Matters, fame doesn’t

I’m currently reading Bob Kauflin’s new book called “Worship Matters.” As a Christian and a musician I particularly appreciated the following excerpt:

“But sometimes an individual’s popularity shows us the effects of indwelling sin and how in these last days people with “itching ears” will flock to leaders to “suit their own passions” (2 Timothy 4:3). Reaching the top of a best-seller list or music chart is no guarantee that someone actually has something worth saying or hearing. It may prove just the opposite.

We’re also tempted to gauge how we’re doing by the numbers, like how many people show up on Sunday. But people can be lured to come to church for all kids of reasons – stunts, lavish multimedia productions, cutting-edge music. More people doesn’t always mean we’re pleasing God. It could just mean we’re good at marketing. Like the disciples, we can have a hard time understanding a Savior who’s more concerned about obeying his father than about seeking out a large crowd (Mark 1:36-38).  Worship Matters pg. 58-59

This is so true, both for the musician as well as for those who listen. Fame can be idolatrous for those who write, play, or perform. But idolatry can also contaminate the minds and hearts of those who show up “seeking” a show or to be pleased, rather than to be pleasing to God and glorifying Him alone.