Praise Teams and the New Testament Pattern

A Biblical Analysis of Modern Worship Models

Praise Teams and the New Testament Pattern

A Biblical Analysis of Modern Worship Models

Introduction: Why the Praise Team Discussion Matters

In recent decades, many congregations have embraced a worship model featuring praise teams: select groups of singers, often mic'd and positioned at the front of the assembly, tasked with enhancing congregational singing. While some view praise teams as a harmless expedient or a helpful tool to improve singing quality, others raise serious concerns about the theological, practical, and historical implications. The discussion becomes especially pressing in acapella traditions where every innovation must be evaluated by Scripture.

This article explores the question of praise teams from a biblical, logical, and historical perspective. It evaluates their origin, their use in modern worship assemblies, and whether such practices align with the New Testament pattern for congregational singing. Along the way, related issues such as church tradition, worship leadership, expediency, and the influence of emotionalism in worship are also addressed.