Episodes

  • A Conversation with Josh Howerton and Chris Kuti of Lakepointe Church

    A Conversation with Josh Howerton and Chris Kuti of Lakepointe Church
    Aug 22 2025
    Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN Podcast Show Notes: The Future of Church Leadership with Josh Howerton and Chris Kuti Guests: Josh Howerton (Senior Pastor) and Chris Kuti (Worship Pastor) from LakePoint Church Hosts: Jake Gosselin and Matt Woltjer from Churchfront Key Topics Discussed AI in Ministry (00:02:15) Josh's approach: Uses ChatGPT weekly for sermon prep as a "high-powered research assistant"Prompt strategy: "Give me 20 interesting facts about [passage] that are historical, cultural, theological, archeological, linguistic, or biblical that most Christians wouldn't know"Chris's usage: Meeting organization, content creation, voice conversations during drivesKey principle: Use AI as a tool that serves you, don't serve the toolImportant caveat: Always fact-check AI outputs - they can be wrong up to 17% of the time Church Technology Criticism (00:58:22) The "negative world" concept by Aaron Renn - cultural shift from positive to neutral to negative perception of ChristianityCommon criticisms: "Tax the churches," "Money should go to the poor"Biblical response: Only Judas complained about expensive things being used to honor JesusEconomic reality: Larger churches often spend lower percentages on tech than smaller churches due to economy of scaleTechnology costs: Modern equipment costs significantly less than in the early 2000s Social Media Strategy (00:12:38) Initial resistance: Reformed background's "theologized cynicism" toward self-promotionThe turning point: People spend 16-18 hours/week on social media hearing secular perspectives"Air war vs. Ground war": Ground war = traditional discipleship, Air war = cultural engagementDigital Areopagus: Social media as the modern equivalent of where Paul engaged culture in AthensCurrent following growth: From 20-40k to significantly larger audience through strategic content Worship Pastor Turnover Crisis (01:26:06) Root causes identified: Getting into ministry for wrong reasons (seeking bigger stages/record deals)Senior pastors hiring for talent over pastoral giftingLack of pastoral development and broader leadership responsibilities"Warm up the crowd" mentality rather than true pastoral partnership Solutions proposed: Hire character first, develop competencyGive worship pastors genuine pastoral responsibilitiesFocus on being pastors who happen to use musicCreate long-term development paths Hiring and Leadership Development (00:36:29) Key principle: "Always bet on leadership" over pure talentCharacter evaluation: Look at family life as indicator of leadership capacity"Hire slow, fire fast" - don't ignore red flags in interviewsVision alignment: Ensure worship leaders can come under senior pastor's visionJosh's story: Had to fire a worship leader after 5 weeks for vision misalignment Succession Planning (00:45:13) LakePoint's success factors: Outgoing pastor (Steve Stroop) "left campground clean" - addressed problems before transitionIncoming pastor honored what came before rather than dismissing it70% credit to predecessor, 30% to successor for smooth transition Key advice for incoming leaders: Honor those who built what you inheritedWatch your pace in first year - observe more than you actWin relationships and excel on stageDon't make major changes without building equity first Staying Humble While Growing (00:52:54) Key relationships: Spouse who believes in you but isn't impressed by youHire up: Surround yourself with people more talented than youFind joy in others' wins: Move from taking all the shots to giving others opportunitiesDave Stone's wisdom: "Don't let praise go to your head, don't let criticism go to your heart"Josh's perspective: Staying confident is often harder than staying humble Future Ministry Vision (01:08:27) Chris's focus: Leadership pipeline development - never having to post job openingsJosh's project: "Discipleship at scale" through vertically aligned content deliveryCore principle: "We're in the disciple business, not the events business"Technology integration: Purpose-built app to connect sermon, podcast, reading plans, and groups Quotable Moments "If you find yourself on team Judas, get a different team." - Josh on criticizing church spending "Two visions create division." - Chris on worship pastor alignment "Don't let praise go to your head and don't let criticism go to your heart." - Dave Stone's advice "We're not in the events business, we're in the disciple business." - Josh on ministry focus "The loudest boos come from the cheapest seats." - Josh on handling criticism Action Items for Church Leaders Experiment with AI as a research and content creation tool while maintaining proper oversightEvaluate your hiring process - ...
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Churchfront Talks: Modern Church Architecture

    Churchfront Talks: Modern Church Architecture
    Aug 8 2025
    Podcast Notes - Jesus Image Church Construction Discussion Episode Overview

    Jake and Matt discuss Jesus Image Church's impressive $44 million building project in Orlando, featuring traditional Gothic-inspired architecture and innovative tilt-up construction techniques.

    Key Discussion Points Traditional Church Architecture Revival
    • Jesus Image Church building actually looks like a church (rare in modern construction)
    • Gothic architecture elements with arched windows
    • Stone facade reminiscent of historical church construction
    • Departure from typical strip mall/warehouse church designs
    Tilt-Up Construction Technique
    • Industrial/commercial construction method adapted for church use
    • Process: Pour concrete walls as slabs on ground → Frame windows/openings → Let cure → Use cranes to tilt walls into position
    • Much faster than traditional masonry (decades vs. weeks)
    • Requires expensive crane equipment but overall more efficient than historical cathedral construction
    Project Scale & Phasing
    • Phase 1: $28.6 million, 56,000 square feet
    • Phase 2: Additional $16 million expansion
    • Total Investment: $44+ million
    • Smart phased approach allows use of Phase 1 while planning/fundraising for Phase 2
    • Simpler sanctuary design in Phase 1, enhanced sanctuary in Phase 2
    Jesus Image Church Context
    • Known for charismatic, powerful ministry style
    • Innovative in ministry approach, now extending to architecture
    • Multiple ministries: worship, ministry school, prayer ministry
    • Heavy building usage beyond Sunday services justifies investment
    Architecture Philosophy Discussion
    • Modern churches often designed for easy conversion (school, gym, commercial use)
    • Jesus Image building will "never be anything but a church"
    • Debate: Cost-effectiveness vs. purpose-built sacred spaces
    • Traditional approach: building took centuries, but created lasting landmarks
    • Architecture's role in facilitating impactful worship experiences
    Budget Reality Check
    • $44 million not accessible to most churches
    • Equipment costs (cranes) vs. long-term construction savings
    • Question of whether traditional design is worth the premium cost
    • Comparison to strip mall churches and pragmatic building approaches
    Ministry Integration
    • Building supports multiple ministry functions
    • Architecture chosen to complement their charismatic worship style
    • Investment in excellence across all ministry aspects
    • Physical space designed to enhance spiritual encounters
    Quotes & Notable Moments

    Jake: "It's almost got like a gothic architecture look to it with those arched windows."

    Matt: "They're not building a lot of our modern church buildings. If the church closed, the building would be quickly taken up by someone else that's not a church... But this is never going to be anything but a church."

    Jake: "I think we're missing out on the power of architecture to support and facilitate impactful worship."

    Takeaways
    • Traditional church architecture is making a comeback in some circles
    • Modern construction techniques can make historical designs more feasible
    • Phased construction allows ambitious projects without overextending
    • Purpose-built worship spaces vs. multi-use flexibility is an ongoing debate
    • Architecture can be a ministry tool, not just a practical necessity
    Future Content Ideas
    • Tech tour of Jesus Image when construction is complete
    • Comparison series: Traditional vs. Modern church architecture
    • Construction technique deep-dives for church building projects
    • Budget-friendly ways to incorporate traditional design elements
    Action Items
    • Plan potential visit to Jesus Image Church construction site
    • Research other churches using similar traditional design approaches
    • Investigate cost comparisons between construction methods
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    6 mins
  • What is the best live stream mix strategy for churches?

    What is the best live stream mix strategy for churches?
    Aug 1 2025
    Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN Podcast Episode Notes: Choosing Church Broadcast Audio Systems Episode Overview Discussion about switching from Logic Pro to other broadcast audio solutions including Waves LV1, Studio One, and Pro Tools for church live streaming applications. Key Participants Jake Gosselin - Host/Audio ExpertMatt Woltjer - Audio Engineer/Consultant Main Topics Covered Current Industry Setup Most professionals using matrix mix from LV1 systems for broadcastCommon approach: dedicated matrix send from main front-of-house mixRequires ongoing attention to maintain quality Logic Pro Issues Identified Primary Problem: Time Drift Logic Pro gradually falls behind video streamCan drift up to 2+ seconds behind actual videoCreates major sync issues for live streamingProblem appears unique to Logic Pro Design Limitations Logic Pro optimized for studio recording, not live applicationsApple's development priorities focus on studio usePricing model ($200 for 18+ years) indicates different revenue focus Alternative DAW Options Ableton Live & Pro Tools No reported time drift issuesBetter suited for live applicationsMore reliable for broadcast mixing Waves LV1 System Purpose-built for live mixingHardware controller integrationSuperior plugin processingMost expensive but most reliable option System Integration Challenges Hardware Requirements Allen & Heath SQ: Requires Waves interface cardsDante Systems: Need Dante Wave Sound Bridge (~$3,000)LV1 Options: Classic (most expensive, full features)One C Compact (budget option, limited processing)Proton Duo (insufficient for full mix) Critical Decision Factors Budget Considerations LV1 systems: $10,000+ for complete setupAdditional hardware costs often overlookedIntegration complexity increases total cost Staffing Reality Check Many churches: 1-2 experienced engineers, 2-3 learning operatorsCommon mistake: Experienced on FOH, beginners on broadcastResults in expensive equipment producing poor mixes Fundamental Issues First Acoustic treatment more impactful than equipment upgradesProper PA tuning essential before broadcast considerationsSecondary console improves mix quality only 2-5%Room acoustics can transform entire sound Professional Recommendations When to Choose Matrix Mix: Small to midsize churchesLimited experienced staffBudget constraintsDesire for consistency and reliability When to Consider LV1: Dedicated broadcast mixing staffSufficient budget for complete systemAcoustics and PA already optimizedNeed for advanced plugin processing Questions to Ask Before Upgrading: What specific problems are you solving?Do you have dedicated, experienced broadcast staff?Are fundamental acoustic/PA issues addressed?What's your complete system budget?How complex is your current audio routing? Real-World Case Study Recent consultation example: Church requesting lighting upgrades without understanding lighting theoryEight BLX wireless systems failing across multiple roomsRecommended: Learn fundamentals before spending moneyUpgrade to antenna-capable systems for multi-room use Key Takeaways Equipment Isn't Always the Answer Master current equipment before upgradingAddress fundamental issues (acoustics, tuning) firstProper operation often more important than specific hardware Context is Critical Every church situation is uniqueProfessional consultation recommendedHolistic system assessment necessaryStrategic upgrade planning prevents expensive mistakes Success Factors Experienced operationProper implementationFundamental acoustic treatmentRealistic budget and expectations Action Items for Listeners Assess current system holistically before planning upgradesPrioritize acoustic treatment and PA tuningEvaluate staff experience and availabilityConsider professional consultation for complex decisionsFocus on mastering current equipment capabilities Resources Mentioned Church Front premium membership for professional consultationProfessional coaching calls availableCommunity recommendations for Studio One and Pro Tools Next Steps for Churches Evaluate specific broadcast mixing challengesConsider matrix mix optimization before new systemsPlan strategic upgrade path with professional guidanceAddress fundamental issues before equipment purchases Episode Duration: ~10 minutes Topic: Church Audio Technology Audience: Church technical teams, audio engineers, ministry leaders
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    10 mins
  • Who's still watching YOUR church livestream in 2025?!? || Churchfront Podcast

    Who's still watching YOUR church livestream in 2025?!? || Churchfront Podcast
    Jul 8 2025
    Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN Podcast Episode Notes: Church Live Streaming Reality Check Episode Overview Matt and Jake react to Pro Church Tools' recent discussion about the current state of online church, diving deep into questions about quality, purpose, and audience for church live streaming in 2025. Key Topics Covered The Quality vs. Accessibility Debate Pro Church Tools' Position: High-quality livestreams require dedicated mixing boards and professional expertise that most churches lackMatt & Jake's Pushback: 85-95% quality is achievable with proper fundamentals and doesn't require professional-level resourcesThe Real Issue: Sometimes poor livestream quality stems from poor source material (musicianship, room acoustics) The Hard Truth About Audio Quality Matt's Honest Take: "Your livestream mix is not good because your musicians are not good"The Growth Mindset: Every great musician started as a not-so-great musicianFoundation First: Master musicianship, room acoustics, and basic mixing before investing in expensive gear Who's Actually Watching Your Stream? Key Statistic: 35% of online church attenders are retirement age (12 points above average)Implications for Ministry: Need to consider accessibility, content relevance, and viewing habitsSnowbird Effect: Many older viewers are traveling members staying connected to home church The Purpose Question What are we streaming for? Marketing tool for church visitorsConnection for homebound membersSeasonal/traveling member engagementAccessibility for those who can't attend in person Production Philosophy Start with fundamentals: Musicianship, room acoustics, basic mixing skills, proper lightingAvoid the gear trap: Don't buy expensive equipment without mastering the basicsQuality target: Aim for "good enough" that serves your actual audience, not "perfect" that impresses other tech people Notable Quotes Jake: "You can compress a jackhammer, but it's still going to sound like a jackhammer." Matt: "If you're the sound guy trying to get an online mix that sounds good from a band that doesn't sound good in house, then good luck." Jake: "There's something magical that happens when you're in person in the room at worship every Sunday." Matt: "The top four pages on church websites are always: homepage, about us, staff, and livestream." Action Items for Churches Audit your fundamentals before investing in new gearUnderstand your actual livestream audience (hint: it might be older than you think)Optimize for accessibility - text size, audio levels, clear announcementsInvest in musical training for your teamRemember the goal: Complement, don't compete with, in-person worship Tools & Resources Mentioned Waves Real Tune plugin for pitch correctionImportance of proper room acousticsFront-of-house mixing consoles for dual-purpose mixingWebsite analytics for understanding visitor behavior Discussion Questions Who is your church's livestream actually serving?Are you starting with the right foundational skills?How do you balance quality aspirations with realistic resource constraints?What role should livestreaming play in your overall ministry strategy? Related Topics for Future Episodes Room acoustics basics for churchesBuilding a volunteer tech teamChurch website optimizationGenerational differences in worship preferencesCost-effective lighting solutions for churches This episode was a reaction to Pro Church Tools' video about online church. While we respectfully disagree on some technical points, we appreciate Brady and Alex for raising these important strategic questions about church technology.
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    19 mins
  • Real (GOOD) Drums for churches - Churchfront Podcast | Joey Parish

    Real (GOOD) Drums for churches - Churchfront Podcast | Joey Parish
    May 30 2025
    Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN Church Front Worship and Tech Podcast - Episode with Joey Parish Guest: Joey Parish - Founder of Parish Drums Episode Description Join us for an in-depth conversation with Joey Parish, founder of Parish Drums and longtime touring drummer with Chris Tomlin and Shane & Shane. Discover how one drummer's need for portable gear led to a complete rethinking of drums designed specifically for worship contexts. From canvas drum heads to brush techniques, Joey shares practical insights for worship teams looking to solve volume and space challenges. Key Topics Covered Joey's Background Started playing in church in 5th/6th grade with a pawn shop drum kitEarly touring with Chris Tomlin (the "little east Texas guy in a cowboy hat")Years on the road with Shane & Shane, learning nuanced, acoustic-focused drummingTransition from bus tours to flying and the birth of Parish Drums The Parish Drums Innovation The Problem: Need for consistent, portable drums for fly datesThe Research: Existing portable kits were too heavy (70+ lbs without cases)The Solution: Custom-built nesting kit under 50 lbs, fits in airline luggageEvolution: From 14" bass drum to current 18" bass drum design Design Philosophy Wood Choices: Mahogany exterior, poplar interior (softer, less dense woods)Bearing Edges: Rounded edges for less resonance and more controlShell Depth: Shorter drums for quicker decayGoal: "Dead, thumpy" drums that don't require extensive muffling Revolutionary Canvas Heads Patent Pending: First-of-its-kind cotton canvas drum headsBenefits: Extremely quiet, removes high frequencies, maintains attackTesting: Road-tested extensively during Shane & Shane Christmas tourSound: Natural muffling without sacrificing musical quality Playing Techniques for Worship Brush Advocacy: Nylon bristle brushes for volume control and articulationBrush Development: Creating improved brushes to solve durability issuesDynamic Range: Learning to play from whisper-quiet to full volumeAdaptability: Removing drums as needed to fit the room/moment Practical Tips for Worship Drummers In-Ear Monitor Mixing Counter-intuitive Tip: Turn problem instruments UP in your mix to naturally play softerSimplification: Turn off crowd mics, choir mics to maintain timing focusClick Track: Use plenty of click for solid timing foundation Transitioning from Rock to Worship Understand the Mission: Create an environment for corporate worshipKnow the Songs: Learn originals thoroughly before adaptingBuild Vocabulary: Play with different worship leaders to develop adaptabilityEmbrace Dynamics: Move beyond on/off playing to gradual dynamic shifts Room Adaptation Play the Room: Adjust setup and dynamics to fit the spaceLess is More: Sometimes removing elements serves the music betterAcoustic Partnership: Leave space for other instruments to fill Technical Insights Microphone Approaches Versatility: Parish drums work well with any standard drum micsPreference: Beta 98s on toms for wood hoop compatibilityStudio Standard: 421s on toms, large diaphragm dynamics on kickMonitor Mix: Often removes bottom snare mic from personal mix for clarity Drum Tuning and Setup Locking Tension Rods: Maintain tuning stability during transportHead Choices: Evans 56 Calftone (synthetic calfskin) for natural feelSnare Wires: Uses 12-strand instead of typical 42-strand for volume controlShell Materials: Prioritizes control over projection and resonance Shane Bernard Collaboration Insights Musical Partnership Extreme Dynamics: Shane plays from inaudible whisper to full volumePercussive Approach: Shane thinks like a drummer on guitarNegative Space: Musicians fill each other's gaps rather than competingReal-time Adaptation: Shared musical language allows for spontaneous changes Learning from a Master Observation Period: Spent month doing sound before playing, learning the partsMusical Vocabulary: Built understanding of Shane's musical thinkingDynamic Response: Learned to match and complement extreme dynamic ranges Business and Ministry Integration The Worship Initiative Partnership Resource Support: Financial and operational backing for growthShared Mission: Equipping churches with better tools for worshipContent Creation: Part of comprehensive worship training platform Church Applications Volume Control: Primary solution for churches struggling with drum volumeSpace Efficiency: Fits in corners, small stages, intimate settingsAesthetic: Eliminates need for drum shields in many casesConsistency: Same sound every service, regardless of room acoustics Resources and Connect Parish Drums Website: parishdrums.comInnovation: Canvas heads and improved brush designs coming soonFocus: Drums ...
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Carson Bruce | The Worship Keys - Churchfront Worship and Tech Podcast

    Carson Bruce | The Worship Keys - Churchfront Worship and Tech Podcast
    May 16 2025
    Podcast Notes: Interview with Carson Bruce of The Worship Keys Episode Overview In this episode of the Church Front Worship and Tech Podcast, Luke Jackson interviews Carson Bruce, founder of The Worship Keys platform—a resource dedicated to helping keys players in worship settings improve their skills and understanding of their role. About Carson Bruce & The Worship Keys Founder of The Worship Keys platform, which focuses on four main areas: music theory, gear/software, ministry, and industryClassically trained pianist who now lives in NashvilleThe Worship Keys podcast releases weekly on Wednesdays, featuring interviews with keys players Origin Story Carson created the platform because he "wished something like this existed" when he was youngerPiano has been central to his personal faith journey—often serving as his "prayer closet"Noticed a gap in resources specifically for worship keys players Essential Skills for Worship Pianists Heart Posture: "If your heart is not in ministry...you're not going to stay on that stage satisfied"Playing by Ear: Learning to listen and replicate what you hear is crucialNashville Number System: Understanding music theory through the number systemEar Training: Practice playing unfamiliar worship songs by ear, then verify with chord chartsFocus on Fundamentals: Learn to play well before worrying about gear Transitioning from Classical to Contemporary Classical training often emphasizes sight-reading and technical precisionWorship contexts require playing by ear, improvisation, and band awarenessMany pianists struggle with this transition because the learning approaches are fundamentally different Nashville Number System for Keys Players Despite some believing it's mainly useful for guitarists, Carson advocates for pianists using the Nashville Number System because: It facilitates whole-band communicationMakes modulation easierNumbers are quicker to call out than complex chord namesWorks internationally across language barriersPromotes collaboration rather than piano-centric leadership Common Mistakes Worship Keys Players Make Overplaying the Low End: Creates muddiness when there's already a bass playerDoing Too Much: Sometimes simplicity serves the song betterPlaying Full Triads in Both Hands: Consider simpler voicings like fifths or suspended chordsNot Understanding Context: Different musical styles require different approaches Technology Tips Software Options MainStage: Good for Mac users, moderate learning curveAbleton Live: Most powerful but steeper learning curveSunday Keys App: User-friendly iPad app with AI capabilities ($120) Hardware Highlight Atmosphere Pedal by Aerospace Audio: Physical pedal with high-quality atmospheric pads built inAllows pianists to trigger pads without needing a computer on stageFeatures 10 different pad sounds based on atmospheric layersSmall footprint allows it to be placed directly on the keyboard Keys Players' Rigs Carson's typical setup includes: Arturia KeyLab MIDI controllerMainStage software for soundsFocusrite 18i20 interface when running tracksSoftware from Sunday Sounds or Aerospace Audio for pads Decision-Making for Keys Equipment Carson's advice: If your keyboard works well, keep it and upgrade your sounds through softwareConsider Sunday Keys app for simplicity and ease of useMainStage for Mac users who want more controlAbleton Live for those willing to invest time in learning a comprehensive systemUse iPad apps when available to avoid complex computer setups Sunday Keys App Highlights Features AI-generated sounds based on text or emoji descriptionsAllows easy sharing of setlists between multiple campusesAffordable one-time purchase with optional annual updatesLimitation: Cannot currently import custom-created patches Artists That Inspire Carson Red Rocks Worship (particularly Spooky Scott)Elevation Rhythm (especially "Goodbye Yesterday")The Ramp Worship from Hamilton, AlabamaVarious gospel artists for technical inspiration Connect with The Worship Keys Instagram: @theworshipkeysYouTube: The Worship KeysEmail: Carson@theworshipkeys.com Key Quotes "If you're not using the number system as a pianist, maybe you're not meaning to, but it's like you're trying to say one up almost.""It's like buying a Lamborghini and driving it in first gear everywhere you go.""The piano was once looked at as a secular instrument that you only play in the bars and the pubs, and then it was brought into the church and people had big problems with that.""A lot of times they're asking you to do less in a full band context." Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN
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    52 mins
  • The Songs Your Congregation Will Remember on Their Deathbed | Churchfront Conference | Ben Haley

    The Songs Your Congregation Will Remember on Their Deathbed | Churchfront Conference | Ben Haley
    May 2 2025
    Pastoring Your Congregation Through Worship with Ben Haley Episode Summary In this powerful session from the Church Front Conference, Ben Haley shares three essential foundations for effective worship ministry that truly shepherds congregations. Drawing from scripture and personal experience, Ben explains how worship leaders must know their hearts, know their Bibles, and know their people to lead worship that transforms lives. Show Notes Key Timestamps 00:00 - Opening quote and introduction00:59 - Ben shares the moving story of his father's final moments03:18 - The profound influence of worship music and responsibility it brings05:35 - What should be the foundation of worship ministry?06:37 - Foundation #1: Know your heart11:06 - Foundation #2: Know your Bible15:35 - Practical tips for selecting and using worship songs17:44 - Foundation #3: Know your people21:29 - The danger of prioritizing programs over people24:27 - Final encouragement to show off God's glory25:39 - Closing quote from Martyn Lloyd-Jones Key Topics The Lasting Impact of Worship Songs Ben's father, despite being sedated and on a ventilator, communicated "It is well with my soul" in his final momentsPeople rarely remember sermon details but often recall songs throughout their lives and even on their deathbedsWhat we sing has a profound influence on us, creating great responsibility for worship leaders Foundation #1: Know Your Heart Reference to 1 Timothy 4 - "Watch your life and doctrine closely"Cultural conditioning has led us to value competency over characterEphesians 5:18-19 commands being filled with the Spirit before addressing singingMany things can cause us to neglect our hearts: busy schedules, tasks, praise, or personal struggles"If our ministries are to bless the congregations that we lead, then our ministries have to be led and staffed by people who know that we have a great need for Jesus." Foundation #2: Know Your Bible Compare Ephesians 5:18-19 with Colossians 3:16 - singing flows from being Spirit-filled and Word-filledTechnological and musical excellence alone don't make disciples"What truly makes disciples is the Word of God revealed by His Holy Spirit in the hearts and minds of His people.""The song book of a church is an indicator of that church's maturity."People need biblically rich lyrics to help them through grief, shame, and cultural confusion Practical Song Selection Guidelines Songs should use biblical language and themesSongs should be singable for the congregationFind creative ways to incorporate Scripture into worship times (slides, readings, etc.)Style preferences (old/new, simple/complex, upbeat/slow) are secondary to biblical content"When your people are moved by a melody...make sure that what you are giving your people to sing is something worth singing from the Word." Foundation #3: Know Your People Ephesians 5 and Colossians 3 both emphasize singing "to one another"Corporate worship is both vertical (to God) and horizontal (to each other)We need each other's voices when we're struggling to worshipPractical implication: music shouldn't be so loud that congregants can't hear each other"The church is Jesus's bride. These are his people. He cherishes them. He gave his life for them."You can't shepherd people you don't know The Ultimate Goal of Worship Ministry Help people do what they were designed to do - worship GodAttempts to reform behavior or conform people to church culture will fail"What you win people with is what you win them to.""Use those instruments, use those melodies, use the soundboards, use the lighting controllers to show off God's glory, and give your people the kinds of songs that they will sing on their deathbeds." Memorable Quotes "What we sing has a profound influence on us." - Ben Haley "With great power comes great responsibility." - Ben Haley (quoting Uncle Ben from Spider-Man) "We have been conditioned by our culture to value competency over character. We prefer platform over piety. We choose hype over holiness." - Ben Haley "Great melodies don't make disciples. A brighter projector doesn't make disciples. An online service with better EQ doesn't make disciples." - Ben Haley "The song book of a church is an indicator of that church's maturity." - Ben Haley "Church music is not a one-way street from an individual to God. It's also something we do with each other and for each other." - Ben Haley "Church leaders are not leaders of nobody. We are leaders of people." - Ben Haley "I can forgive a man for a bad sermon...if he gives me some dim glimpse of the majesty and the glory of God, the love of Christ my savior, and the magnificence of the gospel." - Martyn Lloyd-Jones (quoted by Ben Haley) Scripture References 1 Timothy 4 - "Watch your life and doctrine closely"Ephesians 5:18-19 - "Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs"Colossians 3:16 - "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly...singing psalms and hymns and spiritual ...
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    27 mins
  • Churchfront Show 2025 NAB Special

    Churchfront Show 2025 NAB Special
    Apr 25 2025
    Church Front Show - NAB 2025 & Church Architecture Insights Episode Summary Jake Gosselin shares his experience at the NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) Show 2025, highlighting innovative broadcast technology for churches. He and Matt Woltjer also discuss church architecture trends and why thoughtful building design matters for worship spaces. Show Notes Timestamps 0:08 - Welcome and introduction1:12 - Church Front hiring announcement5:28 - NAB Show 2025 overview6:43 - Hollyland cameras for vertical video7:12 - Lyntec power sequencing systems11:14 - Canon CR-N100 PTZ camera12:33 - Church Front's studio camera setup (CR-N500 & CR-N300)15:05 - Canon RC-IP1000 PTZ controller17:40 - Canon C400 cinema camera20:31 - Allen & Heath AHM matrix mixing system24:18 - DiGiCo Quantum mixing console25:39 - Blackmagic Design booth and new gear27:47 - SMPTE 2110 IP video protocol benefits32:16 - Blackmagic Pyxis 6K camera33:55 - ATEM Mini Extreme ISO G2 switcher36:01 - ATEM Constellation switchers41:02 - PTZOptics Hive Studio for remote camera operation42:07 - Meeting PTZOptics team43:07 - Santa Barbara church architecture discussion44:45 - Why modern churches favor utilitarian buildings48:15 - Economic factors affecting church construction52:49 - Revitalizing vs. building new facilities54:16 - Church growth strategies and building acquisition Key Topics Church Front Job Opening AVL Technician position available at Church Front (Melbourne, FL)Apply at churchfront.com/avl-technicianResponsibilities include equipment rack assembly and system deployment NAB Show Highlights Lyntec Power Sequencing Integrates power sequencing into electrical panelsOffers motorized circuit breakers and remote controlProvides flexibility for system automation in new church builds Canon Camera Technology CR-N100: More affordable alternative to the CR-N300 (no SDI, but keeps NDI capability)CR-N500: High-quality PTZ now used in Church Front studioC400: Cinema camera alternative to the RED Komodo with Canon's color science and autofocus Allen & Heath AHM Matrix mixing system for simpler audio controlPerfect for events requiring basic microphone and playback functionalityCan bypass the main console for volunteer-friendly operation Blackmagic Design Technology SMPTE 2110 IP protocol for video distribution over CAT6 cablesSaves money compared to expensive 12G-SDI cabling ($2/foot)Studio cameras with 10Gb ethernet for single-cable connectivityPyxis 6K camera at just $3,200 PTZOptics Hive Studio Remote camera operation via internetAllows volunteers to control cameras from homePart of growing remote production trend Church Architecture Discussion Critique of modern "black box" utilitarian church buildingsBenefits of intentional, beautiful worship spacesEconomic factors (inflation) making quality construction more difficultStrategies for church growth: Acquiring existing church buildingsBuilding smaller (250-500 seats) beautiful spacesMulti-site approach vs. single large campus Community formation in different sized worship spaces Resources Mentioned Church Front Toolkit: churchfront.com/toolkitChurch Front job board: churchfront.com/job-board/Church Front Facebook Group (for discussions) Connect With Church Front Website: churchfront.comSubscribe to the podcast on Spotify and other platforms Next Episode Stay tuned for more church tech insights and integration project updates. Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN
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    57 mins