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History of Instrumental Music
Though the use of mechanical instruments of music in worship are common in both the Catholic and Protestant communities of "Christendom, " most people do not realize that this function was unknown to the churches of the apostolic age. Rather, the practice was an innovation that came centuries after the establishment of Christ’s church, and such was wholly without New Testament authority. Noted scholar William Woodson discusses this digression in this month’s Feature article.
Amos, David and Instruments of Music
Does Amos 6:5 censure David’s introduction of instrumental music in worship?
Psallo and the Instrumental Music Controversy
Over the years, some of those who support the use of mechanical instruments of music have appealed to what is known as the psallo argument.
Responding to Critics on the “Instrumental Music” Issue
In the past we have published several articles dealing with the innovation of using mechanical instruments of music in Christian worship. These essays have generated a flood of critical responses. We have categorized these defensive arguments, and in this article we offer our rebuttal.
Do the Psalms Authorize Instrumental Music in Worship?
May one contend that while the “law” was abolished by the death of Christ, nonetheless, the Psalms remain; and the Psalms provide authority for worshipping God with instruments of music?
What About Mechanical Instruments of Music in Christian Worship?
A sincere Christian wants to know: “Why don’t churches of Christ use instruments of music in their worship?” The issue comes down to the matter of authority. Take a look at this theme with us in this week’s Question and Answer.
What Is A Cappella Music?
Did the first-century Christians employ mechanical instruments of music in their worship of God? If so, where is the evidence of such? If not, why did they refrain from such when instruments were readily available in that era?
The Authorized Elements of Church Music
Jesus declared that “worship” must be consistent with revealed “truth” (John 4:24), namely God’s word (John 17:17). This includes the musical engagement of the church.
The Music-Authority Issue—Again
In response to a recent article in which we argued that instrumental music in Christian worship is without divine authority, a critic replied by suggesting that we practice many things in Christianity that are bereft of authority. One example he cited was the use of Bible translations. In this week’s Penpoints, we refute this baseless quibble.
Ephesians 5:19 — Making Melody
Does this passage authorize the use of mechanical instruments of music in worship to God? Many erroneously contend that it does. Study this important issue with us.
Clapping as an Accompaniment to Singing in Worship
Does clapping with singing aid our worship with inconsequential zest or is it an addition to what has been commanded in scripture?
The Silence Argument
Is the “silence of the Scripures” authoritative. The Bible itself states that it is.
The Bible Doesn’t Say, “Don’t Do It,” Does It?
Must the Bible explicitly condemn something to make it wrong?
Are Choirs and Solos Authorized for the Church Assembly?
Is performance singing with praise teams, choirs or solos acceptable in the worship of Christ’s assembly? What are the arguments for and against this modern movement?
The Influence of Modern Trends on the Church
Is new always better than old? Not always. Some modern trends have had a negative impact on the church.
Aid or Addition — What Is the Difference?
If the church sings to the accompaniment of an organ, those thus participating have added something to what the Lord prescribed.
New Hermeneutic: An Abandonment of Reason
All new things are not always better. Many of the “new” ways of interpreting the Bible are merely designed to keep you from truly understanding the Scriptures.
Denomination Claims Biblical Worship
A failure to understand the real distinction between the Old and New Covenants underlies a host of religious errors.
Worship
A brief survey on worship as taught in the Bible.
Is the Church a Reed or a Pillar?
A reed is a symbol of instability; a pillar signifies a solid, immovable foundation. The church of today must ask: “Are we a ‘reed shaken in the wind’ or are we the ‘pillar and ground of the truth’”?