Al Mohler is president of Southern Baptist Theological
Seminary—the largest seminary in the world. In his book, “He is not Silent,”
Mohler says, “Though most evangelicals mention the preaching of the Word as a
necessary or customary part of worship, the prevailing model of worship in
evangelical churches is increasingly defined by music, along with innovations
such as drama and video presentations. Preaching has in large part retreated,
and a host of entertaining innovations have taken it place” (24).
In context, Mohler is certainly not criticizing the use of music
in worship. He is criticizing churches that increasingly replace preaching with
various forms of entertainment, often in an effort to increase attendance.
Responding to such churches, Mohler goes on to quote from A.W. Tozer who pulls
no punches:
“Any objection to the carryings-on of our present golden calf
Christianity is met with the triumphant reply, ‘But we are winning them!’ And
winning them to what? To true discipleship? To cross-carrying? To self-denial?
To separation from the world? To crucifixion of the flesh? To holy living? To
nobility of character? To a despising of the world’s treasures? To hard
self-discipline? To love for God? To total committal to Christ? Of course, the
answer to all these question is ‘no’"(26).
A bit too judgmental? Perhaps. Food for thought? Absolutely.
