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Why do we sing in church? Did you ever ask yourself that question?
From the earliest times we see that people sang songs to God, and the book with the most chapters– including the longest chaper, is a book of songs sang to God. In that book, we see history sung to Him, praise for what He has done, and we see petitions.
Paul tells us to admonish one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our hearts to the Lord– but how do we know if we’re doing this?
One clear test that I’ve had is whether God is the focus and the people are participating.
- Groups can make themselves the focus through their musicianship, or lack thereof
- Song choices can put the focus on us, rather than on God– maybe leaving him out entirely or singing like he’s a boyfriend
- Congregations may not even sing because everything’s always new
I’m not the only one asking these questions:
If a mist in the pulpit is a fog in the pew, the same is true of the songs we choose and sing congregationally. How does this song build up the body of Christ? How does this song edify a seasoned saint? How does this jingle build up the newly-born believer? How does this worship leader understand his role and responsibility? We must take seriously the theological development of the individuals we call worship leaders because they are disciples too.
SONGS ARE DISCIPLESHIP
While I may not agree with everything in the above linked article, the author is asking the right questions. If we’re supposed to be worshipping and edifying, are we doing that effectively, or have we adopted worldly patterns into our worship?
