Come Now Is the Time to Worship
Theology & Meaning
Come Now Is the Time to Worship, written by Brian Doerksen, is an eschatological worship invitation grounded in Revelation 4's throne-room vision and the Philippian-Isaiah tradition of universal confession. The urgency of 'now' draws on the New Testament 'now is the acceptable time' theology (2 Corinthians 6:2) — the kairos moment of divine invitation is the present, not the deferred future. Revelation 4:11's 'you are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power' provides the content of the worship to which the congregation is invited. Philippians 2:10-11 provides the eschatological trajectory: every knee will eventually bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord — the song anticipates this universal worship in the present congregational act. Psalm 95:6-7 ('come let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the LORD our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture') establishes the posture: responsive worship before the creating-redeeming God. The song also makes a theological claim about the choice involved in worship: 'one day every tongue will confess you are God, one day every knee will bow' — making present voluntary worship an anticipation of the coming universal acknowledgment.
Worship Leadership Tips
This song is ideal as a service opener because it is explicitly an invitation to worship rather than an act of worship already underway. It can gather and orient a congregation at the start of a gathering. Works powerfully in evangelistic settings because it frames worship as a response to who God is rather than a performance for God. The simple, singable melody means even first-time visitors can participate quickly. This song works most effectively when preceded by brief pastoral or teaching context that frames its theological themes. Help the congregation understand not just the lyrics but the biblical foundation and pastoral application. Consider using in services aligned with the song's thematic content — whether a sermon series, prayer ministry focus, or seasonal emphasis. Allow sufficient time for congregants to engage genuinely with the song's message rather than rushing through. The song's power depends on authentic participation, not perfected performance. Avoid leading with energy that overshadows the theological content; instead, prioritize clarity and intentionality. Follow with space for prayer, reflection, or testimony. In many cases, this song functions best not as opener but as central moment in worship where the congregation can engage deeply with its themes through music.
Arrangement Tips
Medium tempo with a confident, inviting feel. Acoustic guitar and piano work well together. The refrain 'come, just as you are to worship' can sustain and build on repetition. Keep the arrangement accessible — this is a gathering song, not a showcase. The final section can build to full band for maximum congregational participation. Tempo management is crucial — the moderate tempo of this song (84 bpm) should be maintained consistently throughout to preserve the intended emotional landscape. Consider instrumentation choices that serve the song's content: sparse arrangements allow lyrical clarity and theological weight to land, while fuller arrangements create emotional resonance through texture and layering rather than pure volume or complexity. Dynamics are more important than decibels. A song about intimacy with God should not be loud; a song about cosmic praise can build energy through added instrumentation rather than volume. In every arrangement choice, ask: "Does this serve the song's message or distract from it?" Test arrangements with different configurations — what works for a contemporary rock band may differ from what serves an acoustic or liturgical setting. The most effective versions prioritize the song's theological and emotional content over impressive musicianship. Build dynamic curves that match the lyrical narrative rather than generic energy trajectories. Lead musicians should understand the song's pastoral purpose so arrangement choices serve that purpose. Rehearse with attention to how instrumental parts support rather than overwhelm vocal clarity. The goal is ultimately transparency that allows the congregation's worship focus to rest on God, not on the musicianship.
Scripture References
- Revelation 4:11
- Philippians 2:10-11
- Psalm 95:6-7
- Hebrews 12:28
- Isaiah 45:23