Worship, Incorporated

***In March of 2007, the Lord inspired me to write about the importance of unity in the Body as it concerns worship. In August 2011, dancers, musicians, and singers will gather as one tribe to bring glory to God in Las Vegas, Nevada. Here is the original inspiration behind this movement and a preview of what's to come.***

In my time of ministering through dance, I have been (more often than not), the spectator in the waiting. Whether ministering during a dance concert, church service, or special occasion, there is a time to stand back and observe. Have I felt frustrated? Yes. Bored? Yes. Impatient? Yes. I have also experienced overwhelming joy, thankfulness, and the desire to break out into spontaneous praise. What is it that makes others seek to worship Him along with the dancer?

I agree that some dance presentations resemble a performance more than a ministry. Some ministries have been classified “angels” on the platform and deemed “divas” offstage. It is often a challenge to get up and “minister” in an atmosphere that has been saturated with entertainment.

It is at these times that I feel the most vulnerable. There is the mounting pressure to “set the atmosphere,” “tear down strongholds,” and “usher in the Presence of the Lord.” Several times after ministering before people, I have been approached by many who said that they “didn’t know how to respond to what they felt on the inside.” I do not believe that this is the design for public worship.

As a movement minister, I realize that I am not merely a spectacle for others to sit back and critique. For corporate worship to occur as a result of the dance ministry presentation, I realize my responsibility is that of a Praise & Worship “Usher.” In understanding my position as a dance minister, I agree with Michael & Vivien Hibbert’s statement in the article Expressing the Moods of the Holy Spirit: “The ultimate in worship is not the expression or worship, but the knowledge of His presence. It is not the music or the songs of the Lord or the dance – these expressions must come out of knowing Him- they must be a result of worship rather than being acts of worship.”

Worship Defined

I have realized that the definition of worship of today unfortunately, at times, is viewed as a one-person or small group responsibility (i.e. the recent rise of "Superstar" Praise & Worship Leaders and the explosion of Praise & Worship teams in most churches). Upon studying the Scriptures regarding worship, I found many instances of Worship, Incorporated. This is how Webster defines incorporate: 1) To unite or work into something already existent so as to form an indistinguishable whole: to blend or combine thoroughly 2) To form into a legal corporation b: To admit to membership in a corporate body 3) To give material form to: EMBODY.

One Hebrew word for worship is tsaba' (Strong's 6635) or tsbadah (from Strong's 6633); meaning, a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); a campaign, literally or figuratively (specifically, hardship, worship): appointed time, army, battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war (fare). Tsaba'(Strong's 6633) to mass (an army or servants): assemble, fight, perform, muster, wait upon, war.

For instructions concerning New Testament worship, we see a few Greek words that point to the Lord’s desire for a unified body in worship. Episunagoge (Strong's 1997) from 1996; meaning, a complete collection; especially a Christian meeting (for worship): assembling (gathering) together. We also see this in a few other words: Homothumadon (Strong's 3661) unanimously: with one accord (mind), and in Sumphoneo (Strong's 4856) To be
harmonious, to accord or stipulate: agree (together, with). Sumphoneo is akin to the word Symphony. A symphony consists of many different instruments, but they all play the same song, in the same key, in time together, to be complete. This reminds me that, as a movement minister, I have to be careful not to think that the dance is the only component being used to impact the worship experience. It is indeed an awesome sight when all aspects of worship including instruments, singing, and movement function together to produce Worship, Incorporated.

The Incorporation Process

There are several passages of Scripture that highlight the importance of Worship, Incorporated. Let’s take a look at 2 Chronicles 29:27-29 (NKJV): “Then Hezekiah commanded them to offer the burnt offering on the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song of the LORD also began, with the trumpets and with the instruments of David king of Israel. So all the assembly worshiped, the singers sang, and the trumpeters sounded; all this continued until the burnt offering was finished. And when they had finished offering, the king and all who were present with him bowed and worshiped.” Though the Lord has appointed many to dance, we must also remember that dance ministry is not assigned to everyone, but movement (bowing) was done by all of the assembly!

Yet another Scripture points to the power of corporate unity: “And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. Then all the people answered, “Amen, Amen!” while lifting up their hands. And they bowed their heads and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.” (Nehemiah 8:6) We see here again, that all the people lifted their hands and bowed (movement) corporately. Just to make sure that we understand how powerful corporate worship is, 2 Chronicles 7:3 informs us that, “When all the children of Israel saw how the fire came down, and the glory of the LORD on the temple, they bowed their faces to the ground on the pavement, and worshiped and praised the LORD, saying: “For He is good, For His mercy endures forever.” Unity is essential to the worship incorporation process.

The Present Worship Report

We often use Scripture to talk about worship in spirit and in truth. Though the Bible accounts for us many instances of Worship, Incorporated, it seems as though, for a season, many factions of the worship department broke off into their own “companies.” The choir, praise team, musicians, dancers, and ministers of the Word often decided separately what was the most important concentration for themselves, while ignoring the corporate umbrella of congregational worship. Competition inevitably arises as to which unit is the most responsible for leading the people into a worship experience. Recently, I have begun to witness musicians, singer, and dancers participating together in corporate praise & worship in major congregations. A return to the biblical model has begun: NOW IS THE TIME!

Future Worship Projections

Not only was this a pattern for the past, but we are informed that future worship shall also be Worship, Incorporated. The Bible gives a several glimpses into the future worship portal: “All the ends of the world shall remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations shall worship before You." (Psalm 22:27). It is wonderful to see that neither denomination, race, nor geography will hinder the future of Worship, Incorporated as prophesied in Revelation 15:4: “Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For You alone are holy. For all nations shall come and worship before You, for Your judgments have been manifested.” Not only will this happen in the Earth realm, but in the heavenly Kingdom also: "All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God." (Revelation 7:11)

The Bottom Line: Business Matters

Worship, Incorporated must lead to a return on the investment that our Heavenly Father has placed in us. Although He created each one of us uniquely and with great care, He orchestrated it in such a way that we as many members fit together. He has designed us to succeed and has plans to prosper us. We must realize that each of us is essential to the success of Worship, Incorporated. Like Jesus in Luke 2:49, I must be also about my Father’s business!

Sources Used:
http://www.eliyah.com/lexicon.html (Hebrew and Greek Word definitions)
Make His Praise Glorious Manual (119)
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture references are from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION of the HOLY BIBLE.

SAVE THE DATE
Rain Rein Reign Ministries Presents...
"Worship, Incorporated" National Worship and Dance Conference
August 11th-13th
Las Vegas, NV
Details in January!!!!
www.rainreinreign.com

We Need More

***This is a throwback article from Company Keepers: Dance Ministry Monthly online newsletter that I wrote regarding Christmas for praise dancers in December of 2005. ENJOY!***

We are being bombarded in the name of "Political Correctness." As I have listened to the news recently, there is controversy over the use of "Happy Holidays" vs. "Merry Christmas." Stories vary about employees who are told not to use the word "Christmas." This is nothing new. We have seen the use of 'Merry X-mas,' 'Seasons Greetings,' and the like. Santa, reindeer, and excessive spending are encouraged in advertising, commercials, and in stores. What is the larger statement here?

As I prepared for Christmas service one year, God gave me a revelation that I have held dearly ever since. I will share it with you. The word "mas" in Spanish means "more." When I see or hear the word Christ-mas it now means "Christ MORE!" In a culture that is trying to deny our Lord and Savior, should we not proclaim the name of the Lord even louder?

When we prepare to select songs and choreography for ministry, let's remember to employ the name of Christ Jesus MORE! Inspirational songs may be great, but as the Word says in Acts 4:12 (NKJV), "Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.” Our commission remains to spread the Gospel to every creature. There is no Gospel without Jesus Christ!

As ministers of the dance, we have many wonderful opportunities to minister the Word of God in many non-traditional settings and programs. As doors continue to open for us, let us never forget Romans 1:16, which states, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes..." Review your current song selection and ministry pieces. Have you unconsciously omitted Christ? The world needs Christ now more than ever before.

Dance with boldness. Dance with authority. Dance with power. Dance in the name of Jesus!

A Night in Shining Armor

Obey God! He gives vision and instructions. When we follow His voice, the blessing is beyond what we could imagine! I am blessed to be the Artistic Director of Reign Dance Company of Las Vegas, NV. After praying about the Company for 4 years, the Lord instructed me to open the doors of RDC in April of 2009 and He hand-picked the members.

This past October, we presented our 1st Annual Dance Production entitled, "A Night in Shining Armor." Along with RDC, Kingdom Worship Arts Ministry, Expressions Dance Company, Witness Performing Arts, Shonica Murray, and Passion for Christ joined us as we put on the whole armor of GOD! We were tremendously blessed and would like to share this experience with you.

To order your DVD copy, please visit our website: www.reigndancecompany.com

Price: $20.00 + $4.90 USPS Priority Shipping (2-3 days).

The Gift of Dance

Many dance leaders and ministries are constantly looking for resources to sharpen and develop their ministries. I am blessed to say that I published my first (of many) books this year! Company Keepers: Dance Ministry Daily launched successfully and we have sold many copies online and at dance conferences throughout the USA. If you have not purchased your copy, discounts are being offered now through December 31st. This book is a great option for group study and discussion.

COMPANY KEEPERS: DANCE MINISTRY DAILY
Reignaissance Publications
Buy Online: www.reignaissance.com
List Price: $20.00
Priority Shipping: $4.90

For your viewing inspiration, Reign Dance Company has released a DVD of our annual dance production entitled, "A Night in Shining Armor." This DVD features several dances and includes selections by RDC, Expressions Dance Company, Kingdom Worship Arts Ministry, Witness Performing Arts, vocalist Shonica Murray, and Praise & Worship by Passion for Christ. This professional production is a must-see!

A NIGHT IN SHINING ARMOR - DVD
Reign Dance Company
Buy Online: www.reigndancecompany.com
Price: $20.00
Priority Shipping: $4.90

Order by Tuesday at 10am to guarantee arrival by Christmas!

Thanks and blessings to all who have supported the ministry of movement. Your financial support enables us to continue to take the Gospel to the masses through movement. Continue to pray for dance ministries worldwide as we spread the message for the building of the Kingdom.

Living and Moving in Him,
Rekesha Pittman

Clothes Minded

Many times we have heard that David “danced out of his clothes,” but the Scriptures do not say that. (File this under "Dance Ministry Myths"). We must know what the Word says, not only about dancing, but about many of our long-held beliefs, traditions, and quotations.

2 Samuel 6:14, 20
14) Then David danced before the LORD with all his might; and David was wearing a linen ephod.
20) Then David returned to bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet David, and said, “How glorious was the king of Israel today, uncovering himself today in the eyes of the maids of his servants, as one of the base fellows shamelessly uncovers himself!”

In the Hebrew (#1540-galah) the word for uncover here is not translated as naked, but to “reveal” or “remove.” He was wearing a linen ephod, but kings at the time wore elaborate robes. He appeared to be common in this sense (by only wearing linen- which was thin and breathable), thus experiencing ridicule by Saul’s daughter (and also his wife) for being “foolish.” David rebutted that he would be even more undignified! Priests wore linen as one of their garments. (King and Priest? Go Jesus!)

Not all dance in the Bible is praise dance, but was an essential part of Old Testament tradition and expression (folk dance). Miriam and David danced unto the Lord. Women, men, and children danced. The return of the prodigal son in the New Testament was celebrated with a party and dancing (Luke 15:25). Of course we have heard the infamous account of Herodias’ daughter, which resulted in the death of John the Baptist.

Since I will not turn this into a long rant, here is the summary: Praise unto the Lord in dance is an acceptable expression. Just because people are dancing does not qualify it as praise (not only dance, but singing, preaching, and more can fall into the category of entertainment when it pleases our flesh more than it pleases God- but I digress…). God is looking at our hearts, and we must seek to glorify him in all that we do.

(New King James Bible Version)

2 Timothy 2:15
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Post No Bills

Have you visited a website, blog or discussion board and read messages completely unrelated to the topic in the comments section? Even if the comment is relative, someone may try to sneak in an advertisement for their own blog, website, or sales business. Ever open your email inbox and see a SPAM folder?

Shady marketing practices are nothing new, but why are Kingdom citizens adopting similar habits? There are many avenues for free or inexpensive advertisements that aim to provide these services to the community and welcome them. While our friends and relatives may become our supporters, we should not automatically enroll them in our sales forces.

It is standard now for many movement ministries to have eye-catching flyers, websites, postcards, and graphics to promote ministry-related events. Because we have a visual ministry, this can work very well to give the potential participant an idea of what to expect. Spread the Word, by all means, but when we become reckless self-promoters, we run the risk of being labeled opportunists and may even cause others to question our true motives.

In the ministry realm, we may not hear from someone until they have an event to promote. This gathering may not include your ministry as a participant, but in essence, an endorsement is being requested or implied. When we receive emails in our inboxes with a request to forward the contents to our entire lists, we have the option to oblige or not. We must carefully consider what we are sending! Constantly bombarding our friends and associates with every event happening worldwide may make us operate like e-blast services (which businesses charge for) instead of concerned friends.

If we want to share the good news about upcoming dance conferences, concerts, and products, it is natural to send that information to people who share the same interests. We should always grant people the option of whether or not they want to participate. They should have a choice whether or not their entire database or friends list receives your information. Forcing ourselves in the faces of others may not only get us rejected, but diminish our respect among others.

In public areas where construction is taking place, we may see the words "POST NO BILLS." This is a request by the builder for promotoers and advertisers not to place posters or advertisements in places where persmission has not been granted. Someone paid the price for the wood or other materials to be there. We do not have the "right" to obtain free advertisement from anyone without permission or invitation.

POST NO BILLS DEFINED
Comes from era before electronic communications. One way to advertise, especially shows, was to "post" or put up on building, lamp posts, etc., "bills" or advertisements. "Post No Bills" meant don't clutter up this space with your advertisements.

Source: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20071118190441AAmgs1k

In social networking, the current trend is to "post" ads, flyers, and pictures on the pages of others without permission. If we do this in our own territory (websites, blogs, social media, etc), this gives supporters the opportunity to share the good news by choice. When we request associates and friends just to increase our marketing base, we may unintentionally (or intentionally) use each other for our own gain.

When I want to get the word out about an event, I contact a graphics designer (who I pay) to produce the image. If I want postcards with the image, I order postcards/posters/promotional items (for which I pay). To reach a larger audience, I may reach out to my radio or print media associates for advertising (and pay for the benefits). I also praise God for favor in these areas. There have been times that I have been blessed with complimentary graphics, ads, materials, etc, but I did not expect these services to be provided without blessing the provider.

Posting ministry or personal information on the pages, websites, homes, cars (ouch), and other areas without invitation or permission could very well mean that we are using our neighbors for our own gain. Only the Lord truly knows our motives. While some of us may innocently copy the practices of those around us, when we know better, we must do better. Consider your neighbor. Networking and advertisement alone do not make events and ministries successful, but can be a tremendous help. While promoting events and ministries greatly blesses the Kingdom, without honest motives, we only cause division. Ignorance is not a defense. When all is said and done, true promotion only comes from God!

NEW KING JAMES BIBLE VERSION

1 Chronicles 21:24
Then King David said to Ornan, "No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I will not take what is yours for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing."

Jeremiah 22:13
Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness and his chambers by injustice, who uses his neighbor’s service without wages and gives him nothing for his work

Proverbs 4:7-8
Wisdom is the principal thing;
Therefore get wisdom.
And in all your getting, get understanding.
Exalt her, and she will promote you;
She will bring you honor, when you embrace her.

Proverbs 12:2
A good man obtains favor from the LORD, but a man of wicked intentions He will condemn.

Technical Difficulties

There is a difference between dance and dance ministry. The danger of focusing on technique as the prominent qualifier for dance ministers is that some will think that the power is in the movement. It is the Word that works. When we connect the movement with the Word, it comes to life in us and through us.

We can have emotional experiences and see movement that overwhelms our senses. This does not mean that a dance is anointed or lines up with the Word of God. Many talented individuals can move a crowd to its feet or garner thunderous applause. Imaging if the thunder of God met our dances with approval! Our ways must please God, including the motives behind our movement.

Dance technique gives us a broad vocabulary from which to communicate a message. When we exalt form over substance, we eliminate the Lord from the process. I have witnessed intensely technical ministry that received a "WOW" from the crowd but did not move a spiritual atmosphere toward the miraculous. Specific signs follow them that believe. Splits, leg extensions, and challenging physical feats may be amazing, but if there is no relevance to the Word going forth through them, the only thing on display are the works of the flesh.

All dance ministries are not the same, but we must remember that the Lord is Holy. We are set apart for Him and must study, pray, and remain pliable in His hands. If we are not careful, we will legitimately offend people with movements and garments that appear to be obscene. If we are truly ministries and not "entertainers," we will not focus on crowd reaction. If we want to move in a way that pleases God, we will be blessed to find an abundance of choreographic movement in the Scriptures.

The world may be interested in your resume and accomplishments, but God is not. Technical training is a great asset to the ministry of movement and should never be a hindrance. Let us always to remember to make obedience to Him our first priority. When we move under His direction and guidance, we will never miss a step!

New King James Bible Version

Psalm 4:2-3
How long, O you sons of men,
Will you turn my glory to shame?
How long will you love worthlessness
And seek falsehood? Selah
But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly;
The LORD will hear when I call to Him.

Acts 17:28
For in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’

1 Corinthians 6:12
[Glorify God in Body and Spirit] All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

Colossians 1:9-10
For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God