You simply must check this out. From Kevin DeYoung's blog.
Since he argues in a very similar way as I think about our gathered singing -- of course I think it's good! See it here.
So how do we connect this with Steve Hartland's point made in his sermon? (See the Quo Vadis? posts) Or better put, how should HBC process it? We already operate with a very similar kind of eclecticism. I have thoughts (the coming Quo Vadis, part 3) about specific steps HBC should take in moving forward.
I think every church must find the wisest and boldest path it can. It should mean different answers in different congregations.
I'll tell ya a step they would never go for in my church but I see no sin in it. Drums and an electric guitar.
ReplyDeleteAmen! I'd love a drum set (acoustic or synth). I've seen the synth sets in churches where there hasn't been a tradition of "drums." The other alternative, of course, is hand drums. Djembe, congas, and the like.
ReplyDeleteAnd I totally agree about having an electric guitar.
Maybe some day in your church and mine?
David
maybe. I wonder if there will come a day in our obviously conservative churches where some of this more contemporary music, dare I say--even the rockier sounding stuff will be played and to the glory of God and that like-minded Saints from diverse backgrounds can enter into it with love for their brethren and perahps even be edified by it? I think that Brother Dave mentioned in an earlier blog that he knows and esteems others with these types of musical tastes but I find there are still some who would never embrace them and even resent them and look at them with an unhealthy skepticism. Just because some worship with a different style, is that any reason to ostracize them?
ReplyDeleteElectric guitars and drums are tools for the devil and should never be allowed in a church! Just kidding. But that is what I've heard from more than a few.
ReplyDeleteSomehow we used to survive with just a piano or what if we had not musical instruments at all? What would we do? How would we worship God?
ReplyDeleteWe could worship God, JP, but what is wrong with using these wonderful tools the Lord has given us to enhance the sound in our worship to Him?
ReplyDeleteWhat's wrong with using crystal-meth to help me commune more intimately with God? Where do you people ever draw the line at what is acceptable for worship?
ReplyDeleteDear JP,
ReplyDeleteMy friend -- you seem to lack gracious words. I hope I'm wrong. Is sarcasm the best way you have to make a point? Please consider your tone, if you would. No one has (or will be) harsh with you. Okay?
Many of the readers of this blog have been here awhile -- and understand the context of anything I say about the use of instruments and technology. Let me urge you to read the thread on "Philosophy of Worship at HBC." It may help you gain a more nuanced appreciation of what I seek, of what we believe God's Word teaches about acceptable worship.
Peace in Christ to you.
David
Dear David,
ReplyDeleteI think you for your reply. I'm sorry but I thought sarcasm was an appropriate response to some of these comments. I mean, you'll find sarcasm in God's Word especially for those who would offer strange fire which seems to be what many of these modern day contemporary worshippers are doing. Maybe you aren't included in that. You seem to be sincere but I don't know where you are going with some of this but I have concerns when you post a foul-mouthed guy like Driscoll on your web page. I mean--if you are taking cues from him, I doubt you are heading down a good path.