September 2026

God Is the Audience

“The worship service is not a concert hall, and the congregation is not an audience. God is the audience.” (Scott Cheshire, Worship Pastor)

That statement changes the way we should approach worship.

When we gather on Sunday morning, the choir, musicians, and worship leaders are not there to perform for the congregation. They are there to lead us as we worship God together.

The congregation is part of the worship team.

Psalm 95:1 says, “O come, let US sing unto the LORD: let US make a joyful noise to the rock of OUR salvation.”

Sometimes we judge a worship service by what we received from it. We might say, “I liked that song,” “I didn't know that song,” or “I didn't get much out of worship today.” But those statements can reveal that we have begun thinking like an audience.

An audience comes to receive. A worshiper comes to give.

Worship asks a different question. Instead of asking, “What did I get out of worship?” we should ask, “What did I give God in worship?”

Did I give Him my attention, my praise, my gratitude, my Heart?

Jesus said in John 4:23 that “the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeks such to worship him.”

Think about that. God is seeking worshipers.

He isn't looking for the best voices in the room. He isn't impressed by musical talent, instruments, technology, or production. Those things can help us lead worship, but they can never replace a heart that genuinely desires to honor Him.

So, when the music begins this Sunday, remember that you are not watching worship happen.

You are part of it.

Sing even if you don't think you have a great voice. Pray with those who are praying. Listen to the Word. Respond to what God is doing. Turn your attention away from everything around you and toward the One who deserves your worship.

God Bless, 

Scott Cheshire