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Christian Music is Trending: What This Means for Worship Leaders and Sunday Planning

Christian Music is Trending: What This Means for Worship Leaders and Sunday Planning

Christian music is having a moment. Streaming is up 60% in just five years, and faith-based songs are breaking into everyday playlists, from gym sessions to commutes. Here’s why the genre is booming in 2025—and how churches can embrace the opportunity.

Christian Music is Trending: What This Means for Worship Leaders and Sunday Planning
Category
Pastoring
Publish date
August 12, 2025
Author
Susanna Gonzales
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CHURCH TECH PODCAST
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TV
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Modern Church leader

America’s taste in music just got baptized, and we have the stats to back it up. 

According to Luminate’s 2025 Midyear Music Report, Christian music is one of the fastest-growing genres in the United States, along with R&B and hard rock. And this report isn’t just referencing vaguely spiritual crossover songs. We’re talking about explicit, Jesus-centered music taking center stage in playlists, Reels, car rides, and gym sessions.

Even the national media is starting to take notice of the rise of the Christian genre. In a recent Fox News segment titled “Is Christianity Cool Again?” anchors discussed the growing popularity of faith-based music and the surprising stat behind it: Christian music streaming has grown by more than 60% in the past five years, with Gen Z fans significantly contributing to the trend. 

Why is Christian Music Trending?

After years of Christianity facing what often felt like a nonstop PR crisis in the United States, it’s worth asking: Why is Christian music suddenly surging in popularity? There are several reasons, including the rise of social media and the growing creativity within the genre. But at its core, it comes down to this: the music has gotten really, really good. Artists like Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, Maverick City Music, and the Reach Records crew are creating innovative and industry-leading songs that belong on your everyday playlist. 

People are now engaging with Christian music on Mondays, during commutes, at the gym, and in the background while making dinner. It is not just church music anymore. It is life music.

According to Luminate’s midyear report:

“Christian music is quietly booming, thanks to a younger, streaming-forward fanbase that skews 60% female and 30% Millennial. This audience is 90% more inclined to discover songs via playlists, while 75% report they listen to songs on repeat. That’s a sure sign of high emotional connection — and a strong fit for repeatable content.”

Christian music is trending, and this is a profound cultural shift. And for worship pastors and church leaders, it creates a meaningful opportunity to meet people where they are. By thoughtfully incorporating the same songs people are already listening to throughout the week, you can help bridge the gap between Sunday services and everyday life, turning cultural trends into touchpoints for reflection and worship.

Worship Planning in a Chart-Topping Era

Let me be clear: worship is not about chasing trends or seeking popularity. Worship is about honoring Jesus and posturing our hearts in awe, gratitude, humility, and praise.

But it is also worth noting when a worship song breaks into everyday culture. If someone is hearing a song over and over on social media, streaming it on repeat, and carrying it with them into their daily life, that song is going to build deep emotional and spiritual resonance.  And if they walk into church on Sunday and hear it again, something powerful happens. Their heart is already open. The lyrics are familiar. And they feel more engaged and better able to focus during worship.

The cultural openness to worship music we are experiencing is more than a trend. It is a profound opportunity for churches to raise up worshipers and spread the name of Jesus.

So how do we do that well, especially when it comes to worship planning and Sunday setlists? We start by paying attention.

Pay Attention to What People Are Already Singing

Worship pastors are busy people. Between service and worship planning, organizing rehearsals, and shepherding their congregations toward having a heart of worship, there is little time for scrolling on social media and Spotify to understand the trend (let alone learning new songs!) Still, it is incredibly important that worship leaders pay attention to what people are listening to right now. It’s not just about what is trending, but the spiritual hunger behind it.

So before planning your next setlist, pause and listen. What is already ministering to your people during the week? What songs are helping them stay anchored in Christ? Your attentiveness matters. It is part of how you shepherd faithfully in this cultural moment.

Start with Discernment, Not the Algorithm

After you’ve made note of what worship songs are trending, practice discernment. Just because a song is everywhere online does not mean it belongs in your worship set. Ask yourself: Is this biblically sound? Is it singable for my congregation? Does it help people encounter God?

Let trending songs guide your curiosity, but let prayer guide your planning.

Bring the Playlist to the Platform with Purpose

If a new release is worship-focused and theologically rich, consider introducing it during a service. But instead of jumping in mic first, make sure to ease into it. You don’t need to open with it or sing the full arrangement right away. Simply start by weaving in a single chorus or bridge during a familiar worship moment. Pair it with a tried-and-true song your congregation already knows and loves.

Take your time. Teach the melody. Let the lyrics settle in. The goal is not to impress people with something new, but to create space for them to encounter God through it. 

Don’t Forget the Oldies 

And while you are introducing fresh songs, don’t forget the ones that have stood the test of time. Many Gen Z worshipers and new Christians have never heard the ‘90s worship anthems that shaped so many of us. Songs like "Open the Eyes of My Heart Lord," "The Heart of Worship," and "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever" may feel nostalgic to you, but to them, they are brand new.

These songs still carry weight. Their simplicity and sincerity make them timeless. Reintroduce them with thoughtfulness and use them to bridge generations.

Weave Worship Into Your Week

While not every trending Christian song will fit a Sunday set, many still have value for discipleship within your congregation. Consider playing songs like “Lemonade” or “Good Day” by Forrest Frank before or after service, and use them as the soundtrack for your church’s Instagram Reels or event recap videos. Feature popular songs at conferences or youth nights, or curate a seasonal Spotify playlist for your church to listen to throughout the week.

And speaking of Instagram Reels, short-form video is one of the main ways people discover new music today – making it a perfect place to share worship songs with your community.

Use Trending Songs on Reels and Videos

Short-form video is how most people discover new music today. If you want to help push more worship music out into the world, consider featuring clips of your team rehearsing a popular worship song or share a few lines of a song you wrote in-house as an “original audio.” 

You can also use a trending track as the soundtrack to your baptism recap on Instagram or create a Scripture reel that pairs with a powerful lyric. This helps your church feel current, extends the reach of meaningful music, and introduces your congregation to new songs.

A More Intentional Approach to Worship Planning

Most worship leaders are already intentional about choosing songs and preparing their teams. Sunday after Sunday, you pray, plan, and pour your heart into helping people encounter God. But as worship music continues to reach people far beyond Sunday mornings, finding simple ways to stay organized and connected can make your preparation even more effective. Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help you do just that.

Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help worship leaders and church teams prepare with purpose. Inside, you’ll find volunteer and tech team scheduling templates to ensure every role is covered, a stress-free Sunday checklist to stay on top of key tasks, and an editable service planning spreadsheet with sample orders of service you can customize for your church.

When the details are in place, you are free to focus on the moments that matter most: leading your congregation in worship that draws hearts closer to Jesus.

Ready to get started? Download this free resource today!

AUTHOR
Susanna Gonzales

Susanna is a theological content writer with a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. She is passionate about ministry, running, and exploring new cultures through international travel. In her free time, you’ll find her surfing, obsessing over the Olympics, or enjoying the San Diego sunshine!

America’s taste in music just got baptized, and we have the stats to back it up. 

According to Luminate’s 2025 Midyear Music Report, Christian music is one of the fastest-growing genres in the United States, along with R&B and hard rock. And this report isn’t just referencing vaguely spiritual crossover songs. We’re talking about explicit, Jesus-centered music taking center stage in playlists, Reels, car rides, and gym sessions.

Even the national media is starting to take notice of the rise of the Christian genre. In a recent Fox News segment titled “Is Christianity Cool Again?” anchors discussed the growing popularity of faith-based music and the surprising stat behind it: Christian music streaming has grown by more than 60% in the past five years, with Gen Z fans significantly contributing to the trend. 

Why is Christian Music Trending?

After years of Christianity facing what often felt like a nonstop PR crisis in the United States, it’s worth asking: Why is Christian music suddenly surging in popularity? There are several reasons, including the rise of social media and the growing creativity within the genre. But at its core, it comes down to this: the music has gotten really, really good. Artists like Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, Maverick City Music, and the Reach Records crew are creating innovative and industry-leading songs that belong on your everyday playlist. 

People are now engaging with Christian music on Mondays, during commutes, at the gym, and in the background while making dinner. It is not just church music anymore. It is life music.

According to Luminate’s midyear report:

“Christian music is quietly booming, thanks to a younger, streaming-forward fanbase that skews 60% female and 30% Millennial. This audience is 90% more inclined to discover songs via playlists, while 75% report they listen to songs on repeat. That’s a sure sign of high emotional connection — and a strong fit for repeatable content.”

Christian music is trending, and this is a profound cultural shift. And for worship pastors and church leaders, it creates a meaningful opportunity to meet people where they are. By thoughtfully incorporating the same songs people are already listening to throughout the week, you can help bridge the gap between Sunday services and everyday life, turning cultural trends into touchpoints for reflection and worship.

Worship Planning in a Chart-Topping Era

Let me be clear: worship is not about chasing trends or seeking popularity. Worship is about honoring Jesus and posturing our hearts in awe, gratitude, humility, and praise.

But it is also worth noting when a worship song breaks into everyday culture. If someone is hearing a song over and over on social media, streaming it on repeat, and carrying it with them into their daily life, that song is going to build deep emotional and spiritual resonance.  And if they walk into church on Sunday and hear it again, something powerful happens. Their heart is already open. The lyrics are familiar. And they feel more engaged and better able to focus during worship.

The cultural openness to worship music we are experiencing is more than a trend. It is a profound opportunity for churches to raise up worshipers and spread the name of Jesus.

So how do we do that well, especially when it comes to worship planning and Sunday setlists? We start by paying attention.

Pay Attention to What People Are Already Singing

Worship pastors are busy people. Between service and worship planning, organizing rehearsals, and shepherding their congregations toward having a heart of worship, there is little time for scrolling on social media and Spotify to understand the trend (let alone learning new songs!) Still, it is incredibly important that worship leaders pay attention to what people are listening to right now. It’s not just about what is trending, but the spiritual hunger behind it.

So before planning your next setlist, pause and listen. What is already ministering to your people during the week? What songs are helping them stay anchored in Christ? Your attentiveness matters. It is part of how you shepherd faithfully in this cultural moment.

Start with Discernment, Not the Algorithm

After you’ve made note of what worship songs are trending, practice discernment. Just because a song is everywhere online does not mean it belongs in your worship set. Ask yourself: Is this biblically sound? Is it singable for my congregation? Does it help people encounter God?

Let trending songs guide your curiosity, but let prayer guide your planning.

Bring the Playlist to the Platform with Purpose

If a new release is worship-focused and theologically rich, consider introducing it during a service. But instead of jumping in mic first, make sure to ease into it. You don’t need to open with it or sing the full arrangement right away. Simply start by weaving in a single chorus or bridge during a familiar worship moment. Pair it with a tried-and-true song your congregation already knows and loves.

Take your time. Teach the melody. Let the lyrics settle in. The goal is not to impress people with something new, but to create space for them to encounter God through it. 

Don’t Forget the Oldies 

And while you are introducing fresh songs, don’t forget the ones that have stood the test of time. Many Gen Z worshipers and new Christians have never heard the ‘90s worship anthems that shaped so many of us. Songs like "Open the Eyes of My Heart Lord," "The Heart of Worship," and "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever" may feel nostalgic to you, but to them, they are brand new.

These songs still carry weight. Their simplicity and sincerity make them timeless. Reintroduce them with thoughtfulness and use them to bridge generations.

Weave Worship Into Your Week

While not every trending Christian song will fit a Sunday set, many still have value for discipleship within your congregation. Consider playing songs like “Lemonade” or “Good Day” by Forrest Frank before or after service, and use them as the soundtrack for your church’s Instagram Reels or event recap videos. Feature popular songs at conferences or youth nights, or curate a seasonal Spotify playlist for your church to listen to throughout the week.

And speaking of Instagram Reels, short-form video is one of the main ways people discover new music today – making it a perfect place to share worship songs with your community.

Use Trending Songs on Reels and Videos

Short-form video is how most people discover new music today. If you want to help push more worship music out into the world, consider featuring clips of your team rehearsing a popular worship song or share a few lines of a song you wrote in-house as an “original audio.” 

You can also use a trending track as the soundtrack to your baptism recap on Instagram or create a Scripture reel that pairs with a powerful lyric. This helps your church feel current, extends the reach of meaningful music, and introduces your congregation to new songs.

A More Intentional Approach to Worship Planning

Most worship leaders are already intentional about choosing songs and preparing their teams. Sunday after Sunday, you pray, plan, and pour your heart into helping people encounter God. But as worship music continues to reach people far beyond Sunday mornings, finding simple ways to stay organized and connected can make your preparation even more effective. Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help you do just that.

Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help worship leaders and church teams prepare with purpose. Inside, you’ll find volunteer and tech team scheduling templates to ensure every role is covered, a stress-free Sunday checklist to stay on top of key tasks, and an editable service planning spreadsheet with sample orders of service you can customize for your church.

When the details are in place, you are free to focus on the moments that matter most: leading your congregation in worship that draws hearts closer to Jesus.

Ready to get started? Download this free resource today!

podcast transcript

(Scroll for more)
AUTHOR
Susanna Gonzales

Susanna is a theological content writer with a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. She is passionate about ministry, running, and exploring new cultures through international travel. In her free time, you’ll find her surfing, obsessing over the Olympics, or enjoying the San Diego sunshine!

America’s taste in music just got baptized, and we have the stats to back it up. 

According to Luminate’s 2025 Midyear Music Report, Christian music is one of the fastest-growing genres in the United States, along with R&B and hard rock. And this report isn’t just referencing vaguely spiritual crossover songs. We’re talking about explicit, Jesus-centered music taking center stage in playlists, Reels, car rides, and gym sessions.

Even the national media is starting to take notice of the rise of the Christian genre. In a recent Fox News segment titled “Is Christianity Cool Again?” anchors discussed the growing popularity of faith-based music and the surprising stat behind it: Christian music streaming has grown by more than 60% in the past five years, with Gen Z fans significantly contributing to the trend. 

Why is Christian Music Trending?

After years of Christianity facing what often felt like a nonstop PR crisis in the United States, it’s worth asking: Why is Christian music suddenly surging in popularity? There are several reasons, including the rise of social media and the growing creativity within the genre. But at its core, it comes down to this: the music has gotten really, really good. Artists like Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, Maverick City Music, and the Reach Records crew are creating innovative and industry-leading songs that belong on your everyday playlist. 

People are now engaging with Christian music on Mondays, during commutes, at the gym, and in the background while making dinner. It is not just church music anymore. It is life music.

According to Luminate’s midyear report:

“Christian music is quietly booming, thanks to a younger, streaming-forward fanbase that skews 60% female and 30% Millennial. This audience is 90% more inclined to discover songs via playlists, while 75% report they listen to songs on repeat. That’s a sure sign of high emotional connection — and a strong fit for repeatable content.”

Christian music is trending, and this is a profound cultural shift. And for worship pastors and church leaders, it creates a meaningful opportunity to meet people where they are. By thoughtfully incorporating the same songs people are already listening to throughout the week, you can help bridge the gap between Sunday services and everyday life, turning cultural trends into touchpoints for reflection and worship.

Worship Planning in a Chart-Topping Era

Let me be clear: worship is not about chasing trends or seeking popularity. Worship is about honoring Jesus and posturing our hearts in awe, gratitude, humility, and praise.

But it is also worth noting when a worship song breaks into everyday culture. If someone is hearing a song over and over on social media, streaming it on repeat, and carrying it with them into their daily life, that song is going to build deep emotional and spiritual resonance.  And if they walk into church on Sunday and hear it again, something powerful happens. Their heart is already open. The lyrics are familiar. And they feel more engaged and better able to focus during worship.

The cultural openness to worship music we are experiencing is more than a trend. It is a profound opportunity for churches to raise up worshipers and spread the name of Jesus.

So how do we do that well, especially when it comes to worship planning and Sunday setlists? We start by paying attention.

Pay Attention to What People Are Already Singing

Worship pastors are busy people. Between service and worship planning, organizing rehearsals, and shepherding their congregations toward having a heart of worship, there is little time for scrolling on social media and Spotify to understand the trend (let alone learning new songs!) Still, it is incredibly important that worship leaders pay attention to what people are listening to right now. It’s not just about what is trending, but the spiritual hunger behind it.

So before planning your next setlist, pause and listen. What is already ministering to your people during the week? What songs are helping them stay anchored in Christ? Your attentiveness matters. It is part of how you shepherd faithfully in this cultural moment.

Start with Discernment, Not the Algorithm

After you’ve made note of what worship songs are trending, practice discernment. Just because a song is everywhere online does not mean it belongs in your worship set. Ask yourself: Is this biblically sound? Is it singable for my congregation? Does it help people encounter God?

Let trending songs guide your curiosity, but let prayer guide your planning.

Bring the Playlist to the Platform with Purpose

If a new release is worship-focused and theologically rich, consider introducing it during a service. But instead of jumping in mic first, make sure to ease into it. You don’t need to open with it or sing the full arrangement right away. Simply start by weaving in a single chorus or bridge during a familiar worship moment. Pair it with a tried-and-true song your congregation already knows and loves.

Take your time. Teach the melody. Let the lyrics settle in. The goal is not to impress people with something new, but to create space for them to encounter God through it. 

Don’t Forget the Oldies 

And while you are introducing fresh songs, don’t forget the ones that have stood the test of time. Many Gen Z worshipers and new Christians have never heard the ‘90s worship anthems that shaped so many of us. Songs like "Open the Eyes of My Heart Lord," "The Heart of Worship," and "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever" may feel nostalgic to you, but to them, they are brand new.

These songs still carry weight. Their simplicity and sincerity make them timeless. Reintroduce them with thoughtfulness and use them to bridge generations.

Weave Worship Into Your Week

While not every trending Christian song will fit a Sunday set, many still have value for discipleship within your congregation. Consider playing songs like “Lemonade” or “Good Day” by Forrest Frank before or after service, and use them as the soundtrack for your church’s Instagram Reels or event recap videos. Feature popular songs at conferences or youth nights, or curate a seasonal Spotify playlist for your church to listen to throughout the week.

And speaking of Instagram Reels, short-form video is one of the main ways people discover new music today – making it a perfect place to share worship songs with your community.

Use Trending Songs on Reels and Videos

Short-form video is how most people discover new music today. If you want to help push more worship music out into the world, consider featuring clips of your team rehearsing a popular worship song or share a few lines of a song you wrote in-house as an “original audio.” 

You can also use a trending track as the soundtrack to your baptism recap on Instagram or create a Scripture reel that pairs with a powerful lyric. This helps your church feel current, extends the reach of meaningful music, and introduces your congregation to new songs.

A More Intentional Approach to Worship Planning

Most worship leaders are already intentional about choosing songs and preparing their teams. Sunday after Sunday, you pray, plan, and pour your heart into helping people encounter God. But as worship music continues to reach people far beyond Sunday mornings, finding simple ways to stay organized and connected can make your preparation even more effective. Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help you do just that.

Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help worship leaders and church teams prepare with purpose. Inside, you’ll find volunteer and tech team scheduling templates to ensure every role is covered, a stress-free Sunday checklist to stay on top of key tasks, and an editable service planning spreadsheet with sample orders of service you can customize for your church.

When the details are in place, you are free to focus on the moments that matter most: leading your congregation in worship that draws hearts closer to Jesus.

Ready to get started? Download this free resource today!

VIDEO transcript

(Scroll for more)

America’s taste in music just got baptized, and we have the stats to back it up. 

According to Luminate’s 2025 Midyear Music Report, Christian music is one of the fastest-growing genres in the United States, along with R&B and hard rock. And this report isn’t just referencing vaguely spiritual crossover songs. We’re talking about explicit, Jesus-centered music taking center stage in playlists, Reels, car rides, and gym sessions.

Even the national media is starting to take notice of the rise of the Christian genre. In a recent Fox News segment titled “Is Christianity Cool Again?” anchors discussed the growing popularity of faith-based music and the surprising stat behind it: Christian music streaming has grown by more than 60% in the past five years, with Gen Z fans significantly contributing to the trend. 

Why is Christian Music Trending?

After years of Christianity facing what often felt like a nonstop PR crisis in the United States, it’s worth asking: Why is Christian music suddenly surging in popularity? There are several reasons, including the rise of social media and the growing creativity within the genre. But at its core, it comes down to this: the music has gotten really, really good. Artists like Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, Maverick City Music, and the Reach Records crew are creating innovative and industry-leading songs that belong on your everyday playlist. 

People are now engaging with Christian music on Mondays, during commutes, at the gym, and in the background while making dinner. It is not just church music anymore. It is life music.

According to Luminate’s midyear report:

“Christian music is quietly booming, thanks to a younger, streaming-forward fanbase that skews 60% female and 30% Millennial. This audience is 90% more inclined to discover songs via playlists, while 75% report they listen to songs on repeat. That’s a sure sign of high emotional connection — and a strong fit for repeatable content.”

Christian music is trending, and this is a profound cultural shift. And for worship pastors and church leaders, it creates a meaningful opportunity to meet people where they are. By thoughtfully incorporating the same songs people are already listening to throughout the week, you can help bridge the gap between Sunday services and everyday life, turning cultural trends into touchpoints for reflection and worship.

Worship Planning in a Chart-Topping Era

Let me be clear: worship is not about chasing trends or seeking popularity. Worship is about honoring Jesus and posturing our hearts in awe, gratitude, humility, and praise.

But it is also worth noting when a worship song breaks into everyday culture. If someone is hearing a song over and over on social media, streaming it on repeat, and carrying it with them into their daily life, that song is going to build deep emotional and spiritual resonance.  And if they walk into church on Sunday and hear it again, something powerful happens. Their heart is already open. The lyrics are familiar. And they feel more engaged and better able to focus during worship.

The cultural openness to worship music we are experiencing is more than a trend. It is a profound opportunity for churches to raise up worshipers and spread the name of Jesus.

So how do we do that well, especially when it comes to worship planning and Sunday setlists? We start by paying attention.

Pay Attention to What People Are Already Singing

Worship pastors are busy people. Between service and worship planning, organizing rehearsals, and shepherding their congregations toward having a heart of worship, there is little time for scrolling on social media and Spotify to understand the trend (let alone learning new songs!) Still, it is incredibly important that worship leaders pay attention to what people are listening to right now. It’s not just about what is trending, but the spiritual hunger behind it.

So before planning your next setlist, pause and listen. What is already ministering to your people during the week? What songs are helping them stay anchored in Christ? Your attentiveness matters. It is part of how you shepherd faithfully in this cultural moment.

Start with Discernment, Not the Algorithm

After you’ve made note of what worship songs are trending, practice discernment. Just because a song is everywhere online does not mean it belongs in your worship set. Ask yourself: Is this biblically sound? Is it singable for my congregation? Does it help people encounter God?

Let trending songs guide your curiosity, but let prayer guide your planning.

Bring the Playlist to the Platform with Purpose

If a new release is worship-focused and theologically rich, consider introducing it during a service. But instead of jumping in mic first, make sure to ease into it. You don’t need to open with it or sing the full arrangement right away. Simply start by weaving in a single chorus or bridge during a familiar worship moment. Pair it with a tried-and-true song your congregation already knows and loves.

Take your time. Teach the melody. Let the lyrics settle in. The goal is not to impress people with something new, but to create space for them to encounter God through it. 

Don’t Forget the Oldies 

And while you are introducing fresh songs, don’t forget the ones that have stood the test of time. Many Gen Z worshipers and new Christians have never heard the ‘90s worship anthems that shaped so many of us. Songs like "Open the Eyes of My Heart Lord," "The Heart of Worship," and "I Could Sing of Your Love Forever" may feel nostalgic to you, but to them, they are brand new.

These songs still carry weight. Their simplicity and sincerity make them timeless. Reintroduce them with thoughtfulness and use them to bridge generations.

Weave Worship Into Your Week

While not every trending Christian song will fit a Sunday set, many still have value for discipleship within your congregation. Consider playing songs like “Lemonade” or “Good Day” by Forrest Frank before or after service, and use them as the soundtrack for your church’s Instagram Reels or event recap videos. Feature popular songs at conferences or youth nights, or curate a seasonal Spotify playlist for your church to listen to throughout the week.

And speaking of Instagram Reels, short-form video is one of the main ways people discover new music today – making it a perfect place to share worship songs with your community.

Use Trending Songs on Reels and Videos

Short-form video is how most people discover new music today. If you want to help push more worship music out into the world, consider featuring clips of your team rehearsing a popular worship song or share a few lines of a song you wrote in-house as an “original audio.” 

You can also use a trending track as the soundtrack to your baptism recap on Instagram or create a Scripture reel that pairs with a powerful lyric. This helps your church feel current, extends the reach of meaningful music, and introduces your congregation to new songs.

A More Intentional Approach to Worship Planning

Most worship leaders are already intentional about choosing songs and preparing their teams. Sunday after Sunday, you pray, plan, and pour your heart into helping people encounter God. But as worship music continues to reach people far beyond Sunday mornings, finding simple ways to stay organized and connected can make your preparation even more effective. Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help you do just that.

Sunday Simplified is a free 4-week worship planning template pack designed to help worship leaders and church teams prepare with purpose. Inside, you’ll find volunteer and tech team scheduling templates to ensure every role is covered, a stress-free Sunday checklist to stay on top of key tasks, and an editable service planning spreadsheet with sample orders of service you can customize for your church.

When the details are in place, you are free to focus on the moments that matter most: leading your congregation in worship that draws hearts closer to Jesus.

Ready to get started? Download this free resource today!

AUTHOR
Susanna Gonzales

Susanna is a theological content writer with a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. She is passionate about ministry, running, and exploring new cultures through international travel. In her free time, you’ll find her surfing, obsessing over the Olympics, or enjoying the San Diego sunshine!

Category

Christian Music is Trending: What This Means for Worship Leaders and Sunday Planning

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Christian Music Trends in 2025

For more questions, visit our FAQ page

Why is Christian music becoming more popular in 2025?

According to the Luminate 2025 Midyear Music Report, Christian music streaming has grown by over 60% in the past five years, driven largely by Gen Z listeners. Social media, short-form video, and innovative artists like Forrest Frank, Maverick City Music, and Brandon Lake are helping the genre reach everyday playlists, not just church services.

Which Christian music artists are leading the trend?

Some of the most influential artists in the movement include Forrest Frank, Brandon Lake, Maverick City Music, and the Reach Records team. They are blending high-quality production with faith-centered lyrics, appealing to both Christian and mainstream audiences.

How can churches respond to the rise of Christian music?

Churches can integrate trending worship songs into Sunday setlists with discernment, pairing them with familiar favorites. They can also use trending tracks in pre-service music, Instagram Reels, and event videos to stay culturally connected while pointing people to Christ.

Should worship leaders include every trending Christian song in services?

Not necessarily. Leaders should evaluate songs for biblical accuracy, congregational singability, and spiritual depth before including them in worship. Trends can be a starting point, but prayer and discernment should guide song selection.

How can churches use social media to share worship music?

Short-form video platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok are key for music discovery. Churches can post clips of worship rehearsals, Scripture paired with song lyrics, or event recaps set to trending Christian tracks to engage both members and new audiences.

Are older worship songs still relevant?

Yes. Many ‘90s and early 2000s worship songs are brand new to younger audiences and still carry deep spiritual resonance. Reintroducing classics like “Open the Eyes of My Heart” can bridge generations and create shared worship experiences. Also, remember the classic hymns!

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