Essential Worship - by Greg Scheer (Paperback)

About the Book

Author, composer, and minister of worship provides a concise, easy-to-read introduction to worship theology and practice, helping worship leaders navigate the sea of options and providing an entry point that best fits their style.

Book Synopsis

An Essential Guide to Understanding and Leading Worship

Worship leaders are adrift in a sea of worship resources, but, incredibly, no single book provides a simple introduction to worship and worship leading. Essential Worship is a concise, easy-to-read primer on the basics of worship theology and practice. Each concept is introduced clearly and concisely. Diagrams, charts, and bulleted lists make the information easy to digest. And preparation and reflection questions help readers apply the material to their own church context.

Whether one is a beginner or an experienced worship leader, readers from all traditions will find in this resource a solid foundation for future success. It is particularly well-suited for the first-time worship or praise band leader, as well as for pastors who want to be more intentional about the music in their services.

From the Back Cover

A clear and concise introduction to worship and worship leading

Essential Worship is an easy-to-read primer on the basics of worship theology and practice that is perfect for pastors and worship leaders of all levels of experience. Each concept is introduced and unpacked with useful diagrams, charts, and lists, plus preparation and reflection questions to help you apply the material to your unique church context.

Whether you're beginning a new service or hoping to deepen existing worship, this indispensable resource is your solid foundation for future success.


"Greg Scheer offers personal and fresh perspective on the interworkings of corporate worship with his unique blend of levity and insight. This book is a good springboard for conversation and growth for both worship leaders and congregations."--Sandra McCracken, singer-songwriter

"This is the book we've been waiting for! It is a comprehensive introduction to the theology and practice of worship, combining historical and biblical perspectives with a practitioner's pastoral experience. An essential resource for anyone looking to grow in their understanding of corporate worship."--Glenn Packiam, pastor, New Life Downtown; author, Mystery of Faith

"Greg Scheer is a theologically and pastorally sensitive reflective practitioner--an ideal teacher for a new generation of worship leaders."--John Witvliet, Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Calvin College and Calvin Theological Seminary

"I usually find introductions to worship and worship leading disappointing because they are either theologically, historically, liturgically, or practically weak. There is always some gap. For the first time, I've found something that briefly yet thoroughly covers it all!"--Zac Hicks, Canon for Worship and Liturgy, Cathedral Church of the Advent; author, The Worship Pastor


Greg Scheer is a composer, author, musician, and minister of worship. Currently minister of worship at Church of the Servant (CRC) and a music associate with the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, both in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he is the author of The Art of Worship and a contributor to The Hymn, Call to Worship, Worship Leader, and New Songs of Celebration Render. His music is available from Augsburg Fortress, GIA, Abingdon Press, Worship Today, Faith Alive, in numerous hymnals, and at www.gregscheer.com.

About the Author

Greg Scheer is a composer, church musician, and choir and music director. Currently minister of worship at Church of the Servant (CRC) and a music associate with the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, both in Grand Rapids, Michigan, he is the author of "The Art of Worship" and a contributor to "The Hymn," "Call to Worship," "Worship Leader," and "New Songs of Celebration Render." His music is available from Augsburg Fortress, GIA, Abingdon Press, Worship Today, Faith Alive, in numerous hymnals, and at www.gregscheer.com.