Choosing Final Worship Songs: What Would Your Last Worship Set Look Like?

In a thought-provoking reflection, Gordon MacDonald shares the poignant story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer leading worship on his final day on earth. This powerful image raises a deeply personal question: if you had one last opportunity to lead worship, what songs would you choose? We reached out to worship leaders and pastors to explore how they envision this moment, drawing inspiration from Bonhoeffer’s legacy. Here are their heartfelt responses.

Johnnie Denson, New Harvest Church

“Your Love” by Moxie Davis
This song is a profound declaration of God’s unending love. Its chorus, though simple, speaks volumes: “Your love, oh Your love / Your love for me has set this captive free / Yeah!” In a final moment, affirming the freedom found in God’s love would be my declaration.

“All I Need Is You” by Hillsong United
Facing fear in such a moment would be inevitable, but this song speaks directly to that fear. The opening line, “Left my fear by the side of the road / I hear you speak / I won’t let go,” coupled with the powerful chorus, “All I need is You / All I need is You Lord / You Lord,” would be a profound source of strength.

“What a Friend I’ve Found” by Delirious?
There is no friend closer than Jesus. This song’s lyrics beautifully capture that truth, emphasizing a relationship that surpasses all others. Until my last breath, I would want to be singing “Friend Forever.”

James Emerson

For my final worship set, I would draw comfort from hymns, these timeless songs of praise that have strengthened believers for generations.

“Doxology”
“Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” These words are a fitting start, directing my heart and thoughts to the source of all goodness and mercy.

“On Christ the Solid Rock”
Life’s uncertainties are like sinking sand, but Christ remains the unshakeable foundation. This hymn would be my anchor.

“Jesus Paid It All”
Acknowledging Christ’s sacrifice, this hymn reassures me that Jesus has already paid the ultimate price. In Him, I am secure and have nothing to fear.

“Amazing Grace”
An undeniable choice, “Amazing Grace” encapsulates the profound mystery and beauty of God’s grace. Singing of grace and the promise of eternity would be my declaration of hope.

“O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing”
This hymn reminds me of God’s greatness and the joy of proclaiming His goodness, even in the face of death.

(Though “It Is Well With My Soul” is a beloved hymn, I might struggle to get through it in such a poignant moment.)

Anderson Maples

If I could lead worship one last time, I would begin by reading Isaiah 61:1-3. This scripture, proclaiming freedom and the Lord’s favor, embodies the work Christ has accomplished in my life. It is a reminder of the beautiful transformation that Jesus brings.

“To the Fallen Man”
This personal song, inspired by scripture, speaks of what Jesus did for me—saving me by grace, a gift I could never earn. It would be my testimony.

“Living Sacrifice” by Joel Engle
This song articulates my desire to live entirely for Christ, mirroring the sacrifice He made for me. It captures the essence of a life surrendered.

“Lord I Give You Me”
These words resonate deeply with my heart’s longing to live and die with no regrets, fully surrendered to God. This song encapsulates my desire to give my all to Him, both in life and in death.

Al Hilgendorf, Agape Christian Church

Reflecting on a lifetime of faith, my final worship songs would include those that have shaped my spiritual journey:

“It Is Well With My Soul,” “How Great Thou Art,” and “Amazing Grace.” These hymns have provided comfort, hope, and an expression of worship throughout my life.

There would also be a temptation to sing songs like “Pass Over Me” or Charles Wesley’s “Love Divine, What Hast Thou Done,” both of which deeply resonate with the reality of Christ’s sacrifice and love.

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Each of these selections reveals a personal, heartfelt connection to God. In moments of final worship, these leaders reflect their deepest convictions and the unshakeable hope found in Christ. Just as Bonhoeffer led with courage and faith, so too do these worship leaders prepare to sing songs that testify to the power and love of God.

May we all find inspiration in their choices, and may our own worship be a declaration of our faith and trust in the One who holds our lives.

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