Worship Teams - A Commitment To God, The Church and One Another

Neh. 10:28-39

Nehemiah called his musicians to make an oath – or commitment to holiness. This kind of oath was only required on this one occasion—there is no other mention of an oath like this anywhere else in the Word. It is worthy of mention, however, as there are some applicable points when considering the character of worship team members.

The word “oath” in Hebrew is Shebuah which comes from the word sheba, meaning “seven.” Seven is a sacred number and its use in this context is meant to imply the seriousness of such an oath. In taking this oath the musicians were, in fact, inviting the curse of God if they failed to fulfill their commitment. It is a promise to sever the old ways, and become bound to the new. In the same way, we need to “put off” the old nature, and become “bound” to Christ (Col. 3:1–16). The following is a list of the seven promises the musicians and singers made in Neh. 10:

• They separated from the people of the lands (worldliness v. 28 (1Jn. 2:15)

• They separated their families and children v. 28• They were committed to one another v. 29 (2 Chron. 5:13; Ps. 133:1–3; 1 Thess. 3:12)

• They were committed to obey all the commands of God v. 29. This promise included the honor of the Sabbath v. 31

• They made a commitment to the practical matters of faith and lifestyle vs. 30-39

• They promised to be honorable concerning their finances, tithes and offerings v. 32–38

• They promised not forsake the house of the Lord v. 39

These seven promises committed the families to be faithful in small matters as well as larger, more serious issues.

Even though we may not make similar oaths as these ministers in Nehemiah’s time, the principles outlined here need to become our personal code of honor. Integrity is something that cannot be taught. David said, “I will walk in my integrity.” (Ps. 26:11)

Here is an application of these seven promises for worship team people today:

• We need to separate ourselves from the world - search your heart to see if there is any lack of holiness as you live in the world. (Rom. 12:2; 1 Jn. 2:15)

• We need to include our entire families in our ministry.

Every member of our family needs to participate in, and learn to respect, treasure and be blessed as they serve the Lord. The whole household of Onesiphorus ministered to Timothy (2Tim. 1:16 see also 1 Tim. 3:2-5, 12).

• We need to minister out of unity. Our music will even sound different if we submit to one another and love one another (Eph. 4:3; 1 Thess. 3:12; 1 Pet. 1:22).

• We need to live as children who obey God (Rom. 16:19; 2 Cor. 2:9).

• We need to be committed and excellent in practical matters of faith and spiritual lifestyle (Phil. 1:9-11; 1 Tim. 3).

• We need to be honorable and worship God with our finances (1 Tim. 3:3, 8)

• We need to honor God’s house and his presence (1 Tim. 3:15; 1 Pet. 2:5).

Just think how your worship team would function if they made a similar commitment to God, the Church and to one another.