Walking into some modern megachurches feels more like stepping into a concert venue than a place of worship. The lights dim, the smoke machines hum, and the band takes center stage, leading the crowd into an emotionally charged worship experience. For some, this creates an atmosphere of excitement and connection. But for many younger Christians, something feels off.
Instead of being drawn to flashy productions, more and more young believers are seeking churches that prioritize biblical teaching, reverent worship, and a deeper sense of community. They aren’t necessarily against modern technology in worship—after all, using lights, music, and creativity for God’s glory isn’t wrong. But when church starts to feel more like entertainment than a place to grow in faith, the focus shifts from God to the performance.
The Shift Among Younger Christians
For decades, megachurches have drawn large crowds with their high-energy worship services, dynamic speakers, and stadium-like atmospheres. Their success is undeniable—many have used modern technology to engage audiences and reach people who may have never set foot in a traditional church. This has created an undeniable impact among youth, with many coming to the saving gospel of Christ.
However, a growing number of young Christians are stepping away from entertainment-driven services. They’re searching for something different—something deeper. Instead of light shows and motivational talks, they want biblical preaching, reverent worship, and a church community that prioritizes discipleship over production value. In this setting, fellow Christians have a great way to fellowship on a deeper level. Instead of seeking an emotional high on Sunday mornings, they want to be rooted in truth that sustains them throughout the week.
Worship VS. Entertainment
There’s nothing inherently wrong with using lights, music, and creativity in worship. Throughout history, the church has embraced artistic expression to glorify God—from stained glass windows to elaborate choir arrangements. The problem arises when these elements become the focus, rather than tools to point people to Christ.
In some churches, worship has become more about personal experience than about God Himself. If the lights, music, and atmosphere are stripped away, what remains? Are people still worshiping, or was it the production that moved them?
Jesus warned against outward displays of religion that lack true devotion (Matthew 15:8-9). Worship isn’t about creating an emotional moment—it’s about drawing near to God in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). When churches prioritize experience over substance, they risk creating consumers rather than disciples.
What Church Is Supposed To Be
The early church, as described in Acts 2:42-47, was built on four key foundations: teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. It wasn’t about spectacle or performance but about growing in faith together. The goal of church is to equip believers, challenge them to live out their faith, and foster a deep relationship with God.
This doesn’t mean churches must reject modern tools or engaging worship styles. But they must ask: Are we using these things to enhance worship, or are they replacing it? Are we drawing people closer to Christ, or just entertaining them for an hour? Many Christians in countries where there's less resources or where Christianity is persecuted hunger for spiritual growth every time they meet for church, so why can't we?
If churches want to truly disciple the next generation, they must remember that worship isn’t about putting on a good show—it’s about pointing people to Christ. Lights and music can be used for His glory, but they should never overshadow the gospel itself. Because at the end of the day, the church isn’t a concert—it’s the body of Christ, called to worship in spirit and truth.