We last caught up with UPPERROOM in our
July 2020 issue . In this current interview , we thought we would hear from founding Lead Pastor Michael Miller and Worship Pastor Jonathan Lewis . The pastor-worship leader relationship is a critical component to the health of a worshiping congregation . UPPERROOM ministries is a dynamic church based in Dallas , focused on the truth that the presence of God transforms lives .
[ WM ] Pastor , the Dallas Metroplex is a very " churched " area , with multiple megachurches available . What distinctives do you feel that UPPERROOM provides to the community ?
“ You Never Let Go ” UPPERROOM honor and submit to Him , then He takes the lead and it ’ s always fun . Most church services in Dallas are 60-90 minutes , ours are typically 2-3 hours . Not because that ’ s our goal or agenda , rather because we want the agenda to be submitted to the Lord . Whether it ’ s me , my wife , or any other teacher , we come prepared but surrendered and flexible . Like I said , it ’ s always fun to see what God does .
[ WM ] Pastor how would you describe the ideal ongoing relationship between the senior , preaching pastor and the worship leader ? Are sermon topics discussed well in advance of the services ?
[ Pastor Michael Miller ] Our goal isn ’ t to host people . Our goal is to host God ’ s presence . I really am not concerned who comes if God ’ s not there . If He comes , everything else will go well because He ’ s the best teacher , evangelist , pastor , healer , and ministry team . It takes the pressure off me and our other leaders . If we
Pastor Michael Miller
[ Michael ] We don ’ t typically discuss sermon topics ahead of time , mainly because my goal is not to teach . The point is to worship the Lord - He comes where He ’ s welcome , and as we invite Him in worship , He comes . It ’ s His presence that transforms lives , not songs , sermons , or traditions . He wants to use all