Book Review: On Worship by H.B. Charles, Jr.

The issue of worship is one that is still a hot topic. How is worship suppose to be conducted and what kind of music is to be used. There have been discussions regarding what is allowed in our worship services. 

Some Christians do not even know what worship means. Some think it is singing followed by preaching. Some think worship is just living the Christians life without even singing, which makes me wonder what they do during a service. 

In his latest book, H.B. Charles, Jr. addresses the area of worship in the context of the local church. The format to this book is very similar to Charles' previous books on preaching and pastoring, which are relatively short chapters that are straight to the point. 

In the introduction of the book, Charles reminds his readers that worship is not about us. Worship is centered on God not our emotions or experiences. God is the One who is worship is all about. One thing Charles stresses is when a church has proper theology, the greater the doxology or praise to God. Right beliefs produces right worship.

The rest of the book deals with three essential topics in the area of worship. The first is understanding what worship is and what worship is not. Also addressing why God commands worship as well as why we worship at the church, which leads to the next section. 

The second part of the book addresses participating in worship. In the section, Charles addresses the purpose of gathering together for worship and writes about what to do when on vacation. One thing when Christians are on vacation is what to do about church. They want to honor the Lord yet they are not familiar with the churches in the area they having time away. Charles also addresses a question many have wondered when it comes to the right time leaving a church. It may not seem to relevant in the area of worship, but it does. 

In the final part of the book, Charles addresses leading worship. This section is not just for worship leaders. This is for everyone whether you are the preaching pastor, a deacon, or a laymen at your church. We all need to understand what is required for leading worship and it is not just having a good voice or knowledge of music. 

Overall, a great book that can be used as guide to assist your church or you individually understand worship and why it is essential. 

I received this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for a review.