I don't think I took it out of context. At the very least the context is vague and confusing. I'm not sure what you mean by you don't know of any worship songs that sing of "gloom and doom" of sin. I really hope that's not true, but really sad if it is. We can't understand God's love for us unless we understand the depth of our sin and depravity.

To answer to your question. No, scripture is adamant that God's love is his undeserved gift, *not* reward. He loved us *while* we we sinners, dead in our sin. See the scripture references in the post. But because of his undeserved love he died for us and brought us to life. Not because of any works, so that you cannot boast. If the song said, "heaven is our reward" that would make more sense. But you can't juxtapose hell and God's love like you did in your question.

Thanks for the thoughts, appreciate them.

Chris,

That's another great Tim Hughes song. Perfect for this time. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks Ben for sharing your song choice. Great lyrics.

Thanks bro. It was an honor to do it.

Thanks Burg. BTW the slideshow is posted on the site: http://www.lifeconnectionchurch.net/2010/01/13/co...

Yeah I know. Just got tired of the death threats from cat lovers.

Mark,

That is a question I alluded to in the post and a very important one indeed. I've seen several people all of a sudden feel "called" to leave their church because of financial security offered in another position. Were it not for the money, I don't think they'd feel called there. I've also had several worship leaders come to our church and love it, feel like that is where God wanted them to be, their home....until they found out the Worship Pastor (me) and all of the musicians are volunteers. Then they mysteriously vanish.

That is tough. Great point at the end about our dependence being Christ centered.

Cyndi,

I appreciate your comments. The "gigging" worship leaders are puzzling. I don't think the money causes it, there's a deeper heart issue there, perhaps mixed with an over-realized view of the global church and undervaluing of commitment to the local body. This post will lead into more detailed discussion on the topic.

You stepped your game up with the background music. Well done. And great sermon brotha! It's been posted on the podcast.