Why Don't Some Churches of Christ Use Instruments in Worship?
The absence of musical instruments in some Churches of Christ's worship services stems from a deeply held interpretation of biblical scripture and a commitment to a specific understanding of "apostolic" practice. This isn't a universally held belief within the Churches of Christ denomination, as there is diversity of practice, but the a cappella tradition is a significant and defining aspect for many congregations. Understanding the reasoning requires exploring their historical context and theological perspectives.
What Does the Bible Say About Instrumental Music in Worship?
This is the core question. Advocates for a cappella worship point to several passages, arguing they prohibit the use of instruments in formal religious settings. These often include interpretations of:
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Old Testament passages: Some cite the absence of instrumental music in certain descriptions of temple worship in the Old Testament, emphasizing the purely vocal nature of the Psalms and liturgical practices. They argue that the New Testament implicitly follows this model.
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New Testament examples: They often highlight the emphasis on singing in the New Testament, particularly in Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16, which speak about singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. The absence of mention of instruments is seen as significant.
It’s crucial to understand that these interpretations are not universally accepted, even within Christianity as a whole. Many other denominations readily incorporate instrumental music into worship, interpreting these same passages differently.
What About the Early Church?
A common argument centers around the practices of the early church. Proponents of a cappella worship suggest that the early church, which is considered the purest form of Christianity by some, did not use instruments in their services. They believe that the introduction of instruments was a later, and therefore less authentic, development. This historical argument, however, is subject to scholarly debate, as evidence regarding early church practices isn't always conclusive.
Isn't This a Matter of Tradition, Not Just Scripture?
While scripture interpretation is central, it's also true that a strong element of tradition plays a role. The a cappella tradition within many Churches of Christ has been passed down through generations, reinforcing the practice and its theological justifications. This inherited practice, while rooted in scriptural interpretation, contributes to the continued absence of instruments.
Are There Different Views Within Churches of Christ?
Yes, absolutely. It's important to emphasize that not all Churches of Christ are a cappella. There is internal diversity of practice and opinion on this issue. Some Churches of Christ do use instruments, acknowledging that biblical interpretations can differ and that the historical evidence is open to various conclusions. This diversity highlights the complexities within this denomination.
What Are the Arguments For Using Instruments in Worship?
Those who advocate for instrumental music in worship often point to the overall goal of glorifying God. They argue that music, regardless of its form, can be a powerful tool for expressing faith and inspiring worship, and that restricting the use of instruments is unnecessarily limiting. Furthermore, they question the interpretation of specific biblical passages, arguing that the absence of explicit prohibitions doesn't necessarily constitute a ban. They also highlight the rich musical heritage of the church across many cultures and eras, demonstrating the diverse ways that music has been used to express faith.
In conclusion, the absence of instruments in some Churches of Christ services is a complex issue rooted in specific interpretations of scripture, historical understandings of early church practices, and established traditions. While this is a common practice within a significant portion of the denomination, it's important to recognize that it is not a universal belief, and alternative viewpoints exist within the Churches of Christ itself.
