There is a lot of talk among reformed circles concerning the move away from congregational singing. Their argument is that the seeker movement has turned church music into a spectator event. While this may or may not be true I believe we need to face the fact that congregational singing is not the only singing that God intended for the church.
Historically the Old Testament reveals a lot to us about the use of individuals with great talent in worship. Men were set aside strictly for the purpose of writing songs of worship and praise to the Lord. These men were extremely gifted in their craft, whether it was playing an instrument or the singing of Psalms. We have no reason to assume these Psalms where always sung by the entire congregation of the temple. We do know for sure that numerous songs were sung by choirs.
What I have discovered about a majority of theologians or theologian wannabes is that they don’t really appreciate musical talent. Oh they recognize talent when they see it, but don’t appreciate it unless it falls into their particular preference of music. In my view they sometimes fail to see the emotional side of music. (many fail to see the emotional side to Christianity) but like Jonathan Edwards said, “yet true religion consists so much in the affections, that there can be no true religion without them. He who has no religious affection, is in a state of spiritual death, and is wholly destitute of the powerful, quickening, saving influences of the Spirit of God upon his heart.”
In reformed camps, if a song is not theologically as deep as Bill Gates pockets, then it is usually written off as not worthy of singing. I find however, a simple song of praise can rightly stir the affections of the soul as much as a great hymn, if it is truly Biblical in its message. There is more to music than its ability to help retain knowledge.
I am a singer. I attempt to play a few instruments, but in my heart I am a singer. I am actually a good singer. I know how that sounds, conceited, right? With the recent American Idol craze I don’t blame you for not taking my word for it. You will just have to assume for the sake of this blog that I know what I am talking about (my singing that is). I have been given the ability to sing well. Most of my congregation has not. When singing a solo I try hard to keep my pride in check, I try to live a life that will glorify God, and try equally hard to sing songs that bring God glory, and sing them in such a way that God is honored. When it comes to congregational singing no one enjoys it more than me, but I also like to sing solos. I believe it is one of the talents God has given me. I also believe that our congregation is edified.
There are others maybe in your congregation that have a great talent to sing, but you may never know it. Some may have a great ability to play an instrument. Should church music only involve the congregation? I can tell you as a singer that I want to sing. Given the opportunity I will sing at most invitations. So please, those of you who don’t really even like music don’t begrudge us poor singers the opportunity to share our talents. I believe God likes solos.
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36 year old husband, father, pastor, singer, musician, reader, eater, rider, watcher,
As a poor-singing pastor (no false humility, just true humiliation) I appreciate and advocate for gifted individuals to share their talents vocally and musically. Our music director is so talented in fact that she has actually written songs for the congregation to sing and even I can warble along.
Great post Scott. God does gift individuals to use their gifts individually to benefit the body corporately, including singing (1 Cor 14:26). I can attest that you are indeed a great singer and I have been blessed each time I have heard you have sing.
I am curious: will you provide us with a few links to those in reformed circles who are disparaging solo singing in corporate worship? What specifically leads you to believe there is a dirth of solo singing in the church and too much emphasis on congregational singing? Who are some among the majority of theologians (and wannabes) who don’t appreciate musical talent? I’d like to read some of what has prompted your post.
Just a follow-up question:
What is your position on applause following a solo/non-congregational song?
Bret, you will have to wait for my next post.
The more I read of your blog, the more I like it!
This, of course, is an ongoing problem for the church. I note that Pope Pius IV nearly banned all music in the Roman Catholic Church because he felt it had become too ‘worldly’ (Rennaissance music c1300-1600AD). How ironic that the Reformed guys want to follow the Pope’s lead. LOL
Here’s a trustworthy saying: “Worship is an attitude of the heart and music is a vehicle through which we can express that attitude. This expression is released using ‘styles’, which although inspired by the Holy Spirit, must also be suitable to our culture; this is important because through them we must be able to express the way we feel.”
Thus, we find at least the following ways to express worship in Scripture (Old and New Testaments):
(1) Singing — psalms, hymns and spiritual songs; ‘free form’ as the Spirit leads
(2) Music — to support vocals and congregational worship; prophesy; to minister where words cannot
(3) Vocal — speaking and praying; shouting; silence (!!!); laughing; Scripture reading
(4) Posture — standing; kneeling; bowing; raising hands; clapping hands
(5) Dramatic — dance (now that’ll draw some comments); drama
Hope this helps/draws out some more comments on a very interesting topic.
Tony, what is the difference, in the nature of the gesture, between woofing or whistling and simple applause? Also, since it has already been established that DOGS do go to heaven, how else are they supposed to express their appreciation of good praise music but than to “woof”? Would howling be more appropriate?
Remember the Toronto Blessing?
Dogs barking in heaven? C’mon.
Woof!
I think howling would be more appropriate . . . if I were singing.
I love applause. Especially when it is accompanied by shouts of “more, more” and “Scott you are the best”
Just kidding. I am not against applause.
Jason – I do too.