Why Don't Some Churches of Christ Use Instruments in Worship?
The absence of musical instruments in some Churches of Christ worship services stems from a deeply held theological interpretation of scripture, specifically focusing on how the early church practiced worship. This practice isn't universally observed across all Churches of Christ, as there's a diversity of views even within the denomination. However, for those congregations that abstain from instrumental music, the reasoning generally centers around these key beliefs:
What Does the Bible Say About Instrumental Music in Worship?
This is the central question driving the debate. Proponents of a cappella worship point to the New Testament's description of early church practices, arguing that the only instruments explicitly mentioned in connection with worship were those used in the Old Testament temple services—services that are understood to be superseded by the new covenant established in Christ. They believe that the silence regarding instrumental music in the New Testament implies its exclusion. They often cite passages emphasizing the importance of spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16) and singing with the heart (Ephesians 5:19), suggesting that vocal worship is the primary, and perhaps only, divinely ordained method.
What About the Psalms and Old Testament Worship?
While the Old Testament describes elaborate musical worship involving instruments, those advocating for a cappella worship often argue that the Old Testament's system of temple worship was specific to that time and context. The new covenant, they believe, introduced a new way of worshipping God, characterized by simplicity and spiritual unity, focusing on the heart's devotion rather than elaborate musical arrangements. The transition to a new covenant, they contend, implies a shift away from the Old Testament's prescribed forms of worship.
Isn't This a Matter of Interpretation?
Absolutely. This is a key point of contention. Those who do use instruments in their Churches of Christ services often argue that the biblical texts cited by those opposed to instruments are open to different interpretations. They might point to passages encouraging joyful praise and the use of various gifts within the church (Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12), arguing that musical instruments could be considered a gift used for edification and worship. Further, they may contend that the emphasis on spiritual songs doesn't preclude the use of instruments to accompany singing. The interpretation of these scriptures becomes the crux of the matter.
Are There Different Types of Churches of Christ?
Yes. It's crucial to understand that "Churches of Christ" isn't a monolithic entity. There's a range of beliefs and practices within the denomination, and the use of instruments is just one example. Some congregations are more traditional and maintain a strict adherence to a cappella worship, while others have adopted a more contemporary approach, incorporating instruments into their services. This diversity reflects varying interpretations of scripture and evolving cultural contexts.
Does the Use (or Non-Use) of Instruments Define a Church's Faithfulness?
This is a question each individual and congregation must grapple with. For many Churches of Christ that abstain from instrumental music, the issue goes beyond aesthetics; it's a matter of theological conviction and a commitment to what they perceive as biblical principles of worship. However, the presence or absence of instruments does not, in itself, determine the authenticity or faithfulness of a particular Church of Christ. The focus should always remain on the core beliefs and practices shared by the vast majority of Churches of Christ – the authority of the Bible, the Lordship of Christ, and the importance of Christian fellowship.
Ultimately, the question of instrumental music in Churches of Christ worship is a matter of theological interpretation and congregational practice. Understanding the various perspectives requires careful consideration of biblical texts, historical context, and the diversity within the Churches of Christ movement itself.
