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What should distinguish the musician who is a Christian from other musicians? Is there such a thing as 'spiritual' or 'unspiritual' music? What do people mean when they use the terms 'worship' and 'praise'? Why does music in the church seem to cause so much conflict, when it has the potential to be so effective and helpful? Why do we seem to have so much trouble providing new Christian music which is both biblically based and musically appealing?

These are the sorts of questions that face all Christian musicians and which this handbook seeks to address. Music has the potential for teaching and encouraging believers and reaching unbelievers, and can draw the head and heart together. Used wisely, it is a valuable tool. Used unwisely, like any gift, it can cause real problems.

In the Church Musicians' Handbook you'll find a variety of material aimed to help the church musician to understand how music should fit in to your church, as well as a wealth of practical advice about making the music in your church work better. Like much church music, this handbook has four parts:

» Music and Church—Three chapters on what the Bible says about music and about how we can use it effectively in our churches.

» Bible Studies—Two studies which consolidate and build on the material in Part 1. These two studies are designed for the music team to work through. They might form part of a day seminar for the musicians in your church.

» Practicalities—A series of short helpful chapters giving practical advice on everything from songleading to running a music team to driving the PA.

» Checklists—A set of four handy checklists that you can take with you to rehearsals or keep by you when you're choosing songs.