Jimmy Cooper tackles the age-old question: What is the role of stage presence in worship leadership? Drawing from a thought-provoking comment he received, Jimmy dives deep into the heart of the matter, exploring the fine line between authentic leadership and performative distraction.

As worship leaders, our primary job is to lead people in an appropriate response to the moment, whether it’s through song, Scripture, or spoken word. Jimmy reminds us that we are not just worshippers, but worship leaders, and as such, we have a responsibility to set an example for our congregation. He points to biblical passages such as 1 Timothy 4:12 and 1 Peter 5:1-3, which emphasize the importance of being an example to believers in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.

But what does it mean to be “appropriate” in our worship leading? Jimmy suggests that context and song choice play a significant role in determining what actions and expressions are fitting for a given moment. He shares a personal anecdote from his recent trip to Africa, where clapping on the one and three was the norm, and not participating would have been seen as a distraction.

For those struggling with team members who aren’t setting the right example, Jimmy offers practical advice: give 110% when you’re on stage, watch recordings of yourself leading worship, and challenge your team with the real reason why stage presence matters.

Let’s take Jimmy’s words to heart and strive to be the best examples we can be, both on and off the stage. Remember, our role is to lead people into an appropriate response to God’s goodness and grace, and that starts with us.