Cultural Studies: The Story of Contemporary Worship
Exploring the history, music, movements, and culture that shaped modern worship.
During A Term, August 10-October 3, students will explore the story of contemporary worship through Scripture, listening examples, historical moments, and age-appropriate discussion. Each week connects the development of worship music with the student’s own role as a developing musician.
Course Objectives
Discover how worship music has developed across generations.
Learn about important movements that shaped contemporary worship.
Understand the development of the modern worship band.
Explore how technology influenced worship music.
Connect worship culture with Scripture.
Recognize how students today participate in the continuing story of worship music.
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Scripture Reading
Romans 12:2Cultural Study
Worship is rooted in Scripture, but every generation expresses worship within a culture. The songs people sing, the instruments they use, the way music is arranged, and the technology surrounding worship can change over time.Sometimes the clearest way to understand this is to hear the same worship song expressed in different generations.
Listen & Compare
“Amazing Grace” — Traditional Hymn
Listen Here <======
Listen for the melody, lyrics, instrumentation, tempo, and overall style.“Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” — Chris Tomlin
Listen Here <======
Listen for what remains familiar and what sounds more contemporary.Think About It
Do you hear the same song in both versions?
What sounds different?
Which version sounds older? Which sounds newer?
What stayed the same?
Journal Response
What stayed the same, and what changed between the two versions of “Amazing Grace”?
Big Idea
Worship remains centered on God, while the musical language surrounding worship can change across generations and cultures. -
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