A Biblical Philosophy of Music | Do you need one?
A Biblical Philosophy of Music
13 “It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the Lord; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the Lord, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the Lord;” 14 So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the Lord had filled the house of God. 2 Chronicles 5:13-14
In 2 Chronicles 5:13-14 we have an amazing account of how music can compliment a service and powerfully inspire worship. The music service was planned perfectly, to bring glory and honor to the Lord. An amazing group of skilled musicians began playing hundreds of cymbals, harps, and lyres while a spectacular brass group of 120 trumpets sounded. The choir lifted their voices in praise to the Lord singing, “God is good; for His mercy endureth forever.” The result; God was pleased, the glory of the Lord filled the house of God, and the priests could not stand to minister.
Sounds like an ideal service. This would have never been possible without a Biblical philosophy of music in place.
The pastor is ultimately responsible for the musical direction of the church and its philosophy.
In David Cloud’s article on the Pastor’s Authority he states, “Pastors have the God-given responsibility and authority to determine what is taught and preached and by whom, as well as to forbid the brethren from getting involved with false things, such as Bible studies conducted by the wrong kind of teachers, meetings in which unbiblical doctrines or practices are promoted, etc. This includes oversight of the music ministry of the church, because music is part of the church’s teaching ministry (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16).”
Some pastors use their lack of musical training or ability as an excuse for poor music standards in their church. This is unfortunate seeing how closely God associates music with worship in the scriptures. So often, the direction of music in the church is based on personal likes and dislikes rather than clear biblical principles rooted in the Word of God. Pastors who truly lack musical discernment should seek to educate themselves in this area or seek a qualified music man to assist them. Satan has ruined many a good church through the avenue of music. Therefore, search the scriptures carefully to develop a clear Biblical philosophy of music.