Q&A - Would you let a non-believer serve on your team?

Q: Would you let a nonbeliever serve on your team? I want to have my brother in law fill in playin guitar on my worship team. He said he’s down to play, but I know he’s not a Christian. I thought it could be an opportunity for discipleship, but I’m just not sure it’s a good idea. What do you think?

A: I absolutely would. I have and I would again. But there are some caveats:

1.       Make sure your leadership is cool with it. Talk it over with your pastor, campus pastor, whoever is over you, and see what they think. Even if it’s ultimately your call you should seek wise council.

2.      Evaluate the role being filled. Personally, I will only place a nonbeliever in a non vocal role. I’ve had to keep some incredible singers off mic because of this, but that’s my rule. I want to know that a person speaking over, singing over, or leading my congregation is hearing from Jesus. I don’t think you can lead worship if you don’t have an understanding of worship.

If to that last point you’re saying “but everyone on stage is a worship leader” I agree with you. BUT you can make that a discipleship moment like the original question asked. That person’s role isn’t to lead in that instance. It's to be discipled. That’s okay. Personally, I think it’s okay to belong before you believe. I've watched people meet Jesus for the first time this way. 

What are your thoughts? Have you had experience with this? What did you do?