Worship IS supposed to lead people into God's presence... but, as one of my previous pastors used to say, worship leaders have to be worshippers themselves. It's not about "creating atmosphere" (which one worship leader once said to me), it's simply about worshipping God. The music, the choice of songs, the lyrics, the "flow" can all help to "create atmosphere" and get people "into the mood"... but if we really mean what we sing, then only will we be worshipping God. And then only, I think, will His presence be felt in a powerful way.
You're right. The problem comes in when we're trying to lead a people into a place they haven't experienced personally.
I'm a bit frustrated with the methodology right now, the hows and whys, the limited vision.
True worship is born in the spirit and the heart. It cannot be scheduled, planned for or choreographed. One cannot drag others into the state of worship and most will not allow themselves to be "led."
How many verses must one sing or how many times must the chorus be repeated before others get "in the mood?" A worship leader does not actually lead but simply enters into worship as they are able and invite others to join them. It may require two or three to enter into worship before the Spirit falls upon the sanctuary but it will come if a few truly worship.
Jesus told us wherever two or three are gathered together in my name, I am in the midst. He is there, all we need do is worship for ourselves and He will honor it.
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