Prof. Aaron Christie
Tuesday, Jan 24
3:15 – 4:30 pm
Evaluating the Theology, Use, and Impact of Modern Hymns
Modern hymnwriters like Keith Getty, Stuart Townend, Bob Kauflin, and Matt Boswell have reshaped the sound of Christian worship across the globe. Their hymns are rich in biblical imagery, musically accessible, and widely sung in both contemporary and traditional church settings. Christian Worship: Hymnal (2021) includes nearly 70 of these modern hymns—highlighting their growing influence even within confessional Lutheran circles.
This session offers a thoughtful exploration of the modern hymn movement through a Lutheran lens. Participants will learn why certain modern hymns were selected for CW21, what criteria were used, and why other types of songs were excluded. We’ll consider the theological content, congregational singability, and worship function of this repertoire, along with how these hymns are used in large evangelical conferences—often alongside historic hymnody. Whether you’re excited by this musical trend or approaching it with caution, this session will help you evaluate modern hymns in ways that are both confessionally grounded and musically practical—so your congregation can sing with faith, clarity, and unity.
Prof. Aaron Christie is dean of chapel and professor of worship and homiletics at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. He previously served churches in Antioch, Ill., and Waukesha, Wis. He holds a master of church music degree from Concordia University Wisconsin. He has served the church at large as a presenter for Schools of Worship Enrichment, a member of the Commission on Worship and the Institute for Worship and Outreach, and chairman of the hymns committee for Christian Worship.
