We must not confuse the essence of worship with the expression of worship. It’s common for everybody to want their own favorite style of music to be played because that would make it easier for you to worship Jesus but, singing to the Lord is also a matter of obedience. The canon is not closed on music for worship. It is biblical that each new generation should compose new songs of praise and that we should not oppose this but fully accept it and give it the primary place. God is pouring out His truth and His Spirit on those who have been gifted to write His praises for today. Thankfully, our church’s position of a modern worship style does not deprive future generations in any way. In fact, they are permitted the rightful, God-given opportunity to continue writing songs and worshiping from the conventions of their own generations in the church. The bible itself, not hymnology or any other musical preference, will serve as the inspired standard for all worship music at CRBC. Predominantly using today’s songs is part of our obedience to biblical principles like 1Corinthians 9:19-23,
“Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law, so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law I became like one not having the law, so as to win those not having the law. To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in it’s blessings.”
In an issue of Prairie’s Servant magazine, Chuck Swindoll says,
“What God intended for His glory and for our corporate and personal growth has been transformed to an ugly, carnal fight. If there’s anything that brings delight to Satan, it is the disruption of the worship of God.”
Tradition is not inspired and the precepts of men are not the doctrines of God. God doesn’t want our lips just to mouth the words. True worship inspires obedience to the gospel in all areas of our lives. He is seeking those who worship in spirit and in truth. He wants all of us to praise Him.
When I plan the music for Sunday morning I devote myself wholly to pleasing God and God alone. When I stand in front of you I envision an audience of one, Jesus Christ. Every decision is bathed in prayer and nothing is planned lightly. Sing with conviction and joy, thankful for every moment, for we are to be a shadow of what is in heaven.