Ep. 16: From Sacrifice to Smoke Machines: How Worship Gets Deformed - w/Pastor Ethan Rosenboom

In this thought-provoking episode of Deformed Theology, Jonathan, David, and special guest Pastor Ethan Rosenboom tackle one of the most beloved – and misunderstood – topics in the church: worship. What does the Bible really mean by “worship”? Is it just music, or is there something deeper and costlier at its core?
The conversation starts lightheartedly but quickly digs into Scripture, exploring the first mention of worship in Genesis 22, where Abraham is prepared to sacrifice Isaac. They trace the biblical pattern of worship as sacrifice — from Cain and Abel, to the temple, to Paul’s call in Romans 12:1 to offer ourselves as living sacrifices. Worship, they conclude, cannot be separated from obedience, humility, and a right view of God’s holiness.
Pastor Ethan shares his journey into ministry, his unexpected path to becoming both pastor and worship leader, and the lessons he’s learned about leading God’s people in praise. Together, the hosts explore the difference between praise and worship, how language changes have diluted our understanding, and why both corporate edification and God’s glory must be present for worship to be biblical.
They don’t shy away from modern challenges — from worship as a “genre,” to celebrity culture around worship leaders, to the tension between entertainment and edification. The team offers a three-part test for evaluating worship music:
Does it glorify God in spirit and truth?
Does it align with Scripture?
Does it edify the body of Christ?

Whether discussing stylistic preferences, the dangers of platforming without discipleship, or the value of songs that draw directly from Scripture, the conversation stays rooted in the conviction that worship is about God first — not personal taste, emotional highs, or industry trends.
Key Takeaways:
Worship in Scripture is tied to sacrifice, not just singing.
Praise and worship are related but distinct — both are essential.
Corporate worship should be God-glorifying, biblically sound, and edifying to the church.
Personal preference should never outweigh biblical truth in determining what we call “worship.”
Entertainment elements are not inherently wrong, but they must never replace the heart of worship.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your worship — personal or corporate — truly reflects God’s heart, this episode will challenge, equip, and encourage you to re-center on what matters most.