Some wars are justified; some are not. (not a political statement so stay away from there). Church history gives us plenty of ammunition for proof. The Reformation is a perfect example of that.
Down through the years, music has been a battleground. I was hoping it was over but recently one of our college students came home and I asked him about the bruhaha about the music that he got involved in. Seems the college president made the comment that the only “real” Christian music was southern gospel and hymns and he challenged the students to give up their “devil” music (my summary not exact words).
UGH!
I like and respect Chuck Swindoll and read a great article by him last week on music. I’d like to share it with you in its entirety and hear your thoughts. It is entitled Sing New Songs…With Old Truths:
Without wanting to be misunderstood, let me say unashamedly that I love the grand old hymns. Throughout my Christian life, I have treasured their historic statements of the church’s faith, having committed many of them to memory.
They have been my dearest companions in dark hours of loneliness and discouragement and my greatest encouragers in times of celebration and adoration.
And while I’m the first to admit that while there’s nothing holy about a hymnal per se, hymns remain an important part of our Christian heritage. Why?
Because the theology of hymns is far too rich and beneficial to lose. The hymn writers were wordsmiths and musicians (seldom the same person) who wove theology and melody together into splendid compositions.
They gave us words for worship and marvelous music. One of the benefits of music—whatever style you choose—is that it helps cement truth in our brains stronger than memorizing words alone.
We remember words easier with a tune attached. Hymns bring to mind deep and practical truths, not only for times of worship but also for times of trial and distress.
I have always loved the old hymns, and I always will . . . because the truths they express are timeless.
However, let me quickly add that the canon isn’t closed on music for worship. In addition to hymns, each new generation will continue to compose fresh choruses of worship and new songs of praise . . . and that is as it should be—it’s biblical!
Fresh and Creative
Those churches who believe we should only have hymns have forgotten the words of David, the sweet psalmist of Israel, who wrote:
I will sing a new song to You, O God;
Upon a harp of ten strings I will sing praises to You. (Psalm 144:9, emphasis added)
The prophet Isaiah and the apostle John later used similar words (Isaiah 42:10; Revelation 5:9). The worship of our Creator should stay fresh and creative.
There is everything right about singing new songs. But we must be certain that the songs we compose and sing express sound doctrine and not human-centered philosophy.
Simply claiming, “The Lord gave me this song,” doesn’t qualify it for public worship. Even Christians in the first century were urged to “test” the words they heard (1 John 4:1–6).
Furthermore, a good melody should never override our critical thinking. Lyrics take on significance only when they are filtered through the inerrant text of the Holy Scriptures.
The music can be new . . . but the truths the music proclaims must not be.
I second his thoughts. I love the new music. But I tire of the repetition which many of them have. I can think of a few right now which turn my stomach just thinking about them.
But I would love to hear your thoughts.
Hi Bill! Our church used to play a lot of the newer hymns, but the pendulum seems to have swung back to the older standards. We just sang ‘How Great Thou Art’ today.
I like Mr. Swindol’s thought that there is a lot of theology in hymns. My prayer book often has hymns as prayers, and I love that.
That said, I do like newer songs too. I think it’s human to get tired of the older songs, especially if they are played week after week. Just because something is new, doesn’t mean that it has no life in it.
Blessings,
Ceil
Good point Ceil. I do think you are right with the pendulum swing. I have no problem with hymns (although I prefer them done in a more contemporary manner). I do have problems calling hymns what are not hymns. But I definitely favor the newer worship songs.
I agree some wars are necessary. I also agree some of the old timey gospel makes for good listening. And some not so much. I think, if the student got it right, that he is going to a “Christian?” college that is led by a pretty stupid “Christian?”.
I agree with you Jeff on the some/some not on listening. I will fall short on calling the man “stupid” although I vehemently disagree with his stand.
I love Swindoll … he’s always been a favorite source of inspiration and teaching. Many truths have come to light through his books over the years. His humor is always spot on, too.
Thanks for featuring him today.
Ah … the ‘worship wars.’ Makes you long for heaven and the song of the redeemed.
Feel the same way about Swindoll, Linda. And yeah, I long for that song.
Swindoll is spot on when he says that what should matter most in Christian music is that the lyrics be inspired by Scripture. Otherwise, it’s just another song and not appropriate for worship time.
And there is room, or should be, in the church for all kinds of songs, old and new, to express our praise to God. Yes, so many of the old hymns are timeless, but there are some contemporary ones that are so good, they might one day make that status!
Blessings, Bill!
I think lyrics should matter most in all music. Music is neutral. The beat is neutral. What is a game changed for me (besides style) is what do the words say? I also agree Martha that some of the worship songs today definitely have the “timeless” banner on them.
Furthermore, a good melody should never override our critical thinking. Lyrics take on significance only when they are filtered through the inerrant text of the Holy Scriptures.
100 percent agree with this quote from your post.
I think Chuck nailed it. In the end it really is about using our God given sense. Emotions do not equal the heart of God.