Grant
Puritan Board Graduate
As an example during our service we use the common lightbulbs to light the sanctuary instead of using a disco ball or strobe light.And that is the difficulty which would make it so nice if I could jump onto the acapella bandwagon (grin). If all instruments were unlawful, the electric guitar VS piano debate would be irrelevant. Even so, admitting instruments as circumstance does not mean that we abandon all reason and elevate the circumstance above the element it serves. Surely that is hard to parse, but worth it I think, since the same can apply to any circumstance (should we only worship standing up? lying down? kneeling? May we use electric lights, microphones, heaters?), and all circumstances require careful and judicious use.
Once man-made songs are permitted, anything can come in.
Tom, I do not believe this is entirely fair. If a church does choose to sing hymns, for example, the session would still need to ensure that these hymns are theologically sound. Otherwise this logic could also be placed on a sermon. According to your comment could one not also say “ well once you let a Pastor write his own sermon or his own prayer get ready for some Joel Osteen theology”? Of course it “could” happen but that does mean it “must” or that it is inevitable. Error can potentially enter any worship service (even at at EP/AO gathering), because WE (humans) are involved.
Now, to be clear, you have made some good remarks to cause me to re-think things, but let’s be fair. The HS has gifted some saints in writing edifying and biblically accurate songs. Now, whether they should be used privately, family, or corporately is the question. Do you say “NO” to all three?
Instruments:
As I stated in my last update, I feel I MAY be coming around to AO. However, I am still greatful for the piano we use because it does help us stay in tune, further when i was a visitor who did not now about hymns or psalm singing the piano helped me learn how to sing the songs. Same goes for the 1650 Psalter App, the piano recordings have helped me learn.
If I were to become AO, would you advocate that I remain silent during the singing portion of our worship service, since we use instruments for hymns and Psalms (an honest reflection)? Remember that I also serve as a Deacon, if that makes a difference to your answer.
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