Historical Posts
Worship in Song
Introduction
A. This is the fifth Sunday in May, which means shortly we will have a service emphasizing singing. Whether we can sing really well or can’t carry a tune in a bucket, we can all “make a joyful noise unto the LORD (Psalm 100:1).”
B. We must do so because God is our audience, and we need to please Him and encourage one another (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
Body
I. We speak to one another.
A. We can only speak to one another in song if we are together (Hebrews 10:24-25).
B. We must sing with the spirit and the understanding (1 Corinthians 14:15).
II. We make melody in our hearts to the Lord.
A. In order to make melody (from Greek psallo), one must “twitch” or “twang” on an instrument.
1) Frequently in the Old Testament, musical instruments were used (harp, tambourine, lute, etc.).
2) In the New Testament, the heart is specified as an instrument.
3) No authority exists in the New Testament for singing with an instrument.
B. Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn (Matthew 26:30) before going to the Mount of Olives.
C. Paul and Silas sang hymns at midnight in prison (Acts 16:25).
D. Jesus taught us at least two things about worship:
1) We must worship in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24).
2) Our worship is vain if our heart is far from God (Matthew 15:8-9).
E. If we are cheerful, we are to sing psalms (James 5:13; Psalm 122:1).
III. We sing with grace in our hearts to the Lord.
A. We could not be saved without the grace of God (Titus 2:11; Ephesians 2:5).
B. For this, we are very thankful (Psalm 100:1-5).
C. As sacrifices of thanksgiving were offered under the Old Testament (Leviticus 7:11-12), so we offer a sacrifice to God under the New Testament.
1) Our bodies are a living sacrifice acceptable to God (Romans 12:1).
2) The fruit of our lips is a continual sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15).
a. God created the fruit of our lips (Isaiah 57:19).
b. Isaiah’s lips were touched with live coal from an altar, taking away his iniquity (Isaiah 6:5-7).
c. God’s words should be upon our lips (Isaiah 51:16; 59:21).
d. Hosea reminds us that God takes away our iniquities, so we will “offer the sacrifices [fruit] of our lips (Hosea 14:1-2).”
Conclusion
A. As Christians, we have many reasons to rejoice!
B. When we come together on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7) to sing, we encourage one another through song.
C. We give praise unto God, thanking Him for what all He has given to us.
D. We do so in a way that is pleasing unto Him and is edifying to us all.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Indisputable Facts – II
The advent of choirs, the use of solos, and various other forms of religious entertainment were late comers to the worship of the church and lack any New Testament authority. The Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature (Vol. VI, page 758) says: “These innovations were first made in the 4th century; and though the people continued to enjoy their ancient privilege of all singing together, it is conceivable that it gradually was forced to die…An artificial style of music, having no affinity with the worship of God, soon began to take the place of those solemn airs which before had inspired the devotion of his people.”
Further, Neander writes of the consequences of bringing secular music into the church as follows: “We have to regret that both in the Eastern and Western Church their sacred music had already assumed an artificial and theatrical character, and was so far removed from its original simplicity that even in the 4th century the abbot Pambo of Egypt complained that heathen melodies [accompanied as it seems with the action of the hands and feet] had been introduced into their Church psalmody” (Kirchengesch, ii, 681: comp. Scriptores Ecclesiastici, De Musica, i [1784] 3).
These innovations ultimately lead to the demise of congregational singing. “Thus it soon came about that the many, instead of uniting their hearts and their voices in the songs of Zion, could only sit coldly by as spectators” (Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature (Vol. VI, page 758). These are indisputable facts of history.
Further, the New Testament knows nothing of the present state of division within Christendom. From Acts 2 to the close of Revelation there was only one church. Denominationalism did not exist! The Bible makes it clear that Jesus came to build one church (Matthew 16:18; Ephesians 4:4; Colossians 1:18). One church is all we find in the Bible. These are also indisputable facts.
If it is important to respect the authority of the New Testament, then these are matters of extreme significance. If, on the other hand, it is more important to do what we deem best rather than what is clearly authorized in Scripture, then these are matters of little concern. I am convinced by Scripture that it is far more important do what God authorizes in His word than to do what appeals to men (Galatians 1:10). Therefore, I am committed to teaching the truth on these matters whether others agree or not!
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Indisputable Facts – I
Although baptism is said to involve the sprinkling, pouring or immersion of one in water, it is admitted that in the New Testament baptism involved a burial or immersion of the convert in water. Baptism is called a burial (Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12). John baptized at Aenon near Salim because much water was available there (John 3:23). When Jesus was baptized the record says He came immediately out of the water (Matthew 3:16). Obviously, if He came out of the water He had to go down into it. The only reason for Him to do that was the fact that His baptism required a burial in water. The same can be said for the account of the Ethiopian’s baptism (Acts 8:38). In the New Testament baptism was indisputably an immersion in water! One who has undergone sprinkling or pouring has not been baptized.
Further, there is not one single account of infant baptism in the New Testament. That practice has no Scriptural authority. It developed in response to the false doctrines of total depravity and original sin. These are indisputable facts, neither of which can be sustained in the Bible!
Any student of the New Testament knows that music was an important element in the worship of the church (Matthew 26:30; 1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). The introduction of any mechanical instruments of music into the worship of the church came centuries after the close of the New Testament and came without any New Testament authorization. According to the Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological, and Ecclesiastical Literature (Volume VI, page 759): “The general introduction of instrumental music can certainly not be assigned to a date earlier than the 5th and 6th centuries; yea, even Gregory the Great, who towards the end of the 6th century added greatly to the existing Church music, absolutely prohibited the use of instruments.” Music in the church, at least through the first five centuries of her history, was undisputedly singing without musical accompaniment of any kind.
If, as some argue, the use of mechanical instruments is authorized in the New Testament, it is clear that the disciples through the first five centuries of the church’s existence were unaware of it. That defies belief! Now you may reason that this is not a matter of any great concern to believers, but for those who believe that it is important to respect the Divine will, these are matters of grave importance. These are indisputable facts. Now we must determine how we will respond to them.
Content by Roger Rush
Visit Roger at the 6th and Washington Street Church of Christ in Marietta OH.
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Making Melody in Your Heart to God – audio
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Introduction
Tonight is a night that many have looked forward to for a while. It is our “singing emphasis” night! We should all be in a joyous mood.
James tells Christians, “…Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms (James 5:13).” The nature of human beings is to sing when happy; how much more when we sing to the One who makes us eternally happy?
Body
I. We sing to God.
The apostle Paul clearly instructs us to “sing…and make melody in our hearts to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19).” Similarly, he tells the Colossians to “sing with grace in your hearts to the Lord (Colossians 3:16).”
God has done so much for us. In fact, He created us (Genesis 1:26-27; Psalm 100:3), and designed us so that our hearts have the opportunity to be pure in His sight.
A. Note that we make melody in our hearts.
Just as Christ offered Himself a sweet-smelling aroma to God (Ephesians 5:2), so do we. To those that are being saved and those who are perishing, we are the fragrance of Christ to God (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). A melody is a sweet sounding savor, just as God commands us to be for Him. God is pleased when our hearts are dear to Him in praise of song.
B. Note that we sing with grace in our hearts.
We are saved by the grace of God through our faith (Titus 2:11-15; Ephesians 2:8). Our singing to God should express thankfulness for the spiritual gifts in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 1:3). The apostle Paul often is thankful for the grace of God that came upon him (1 Corinthians 3:10; 15:10), and extends that grace toward others. For example, he told the Galatians: “Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen (Galatians 6:18).”
II. We edify one another.
Paul directs us to “speak to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:19).” Similarly, he told the Colossians to: “let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs (Colossians 3:16)…”
We must remember that God is our audience and that we are singing with fellow Christians! How encouraging it is when we all come together to sing praises to God. The psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs uplift us as we describe the goodness of God.
The words of each song speak of God’s goodness toward man, man’s responsibility to God, and man’s relationship with man. Each message in song is edifying to us all.
Conclusion
I pray this evening that God has been pleased with our worship, and that we all have been edified. Let us all be encouraged to spread the word of Christ and His blessings.
Content by Richard Dillon
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Praise – audio
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Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise (James 5:13).
I suppose we’re more likely to obey the first part of that verse than we are the second. It’s easy to let all of life’s stresses cause us to forget our need to praise God for everything good. If we’re not careful, talking to God can be more like a 911 call – something when do only when we find ourselves in a difficult spot.
Talking to God, though – praising him – ought to be what we do in every situation.
- When we’re hurting or sad, we pour out our hearts to him.
- When we’re joyful, when he’s blessed us, we praise him.
James recognizes that life has its ups and downs. We’ll have problems like everyone else; when we do, we pray about it. But we should also recognize that God gives us so many joys.
What’s right in your life today?
Can you hear the birds singing outside? Perhaps you’ve already taken a walk in the cool springtime air this morning. God’s blessings surround us, and most of us have quite a few things to smile about.
A soft bed and a comfortable house. Water to drink and food to eat. A job that supports our families, healthy kids, faithful friends, a stable, peaceful country.
And most of all, of course, we’ve got Christ.
Even if we have problems, which we do, nothing can dampen the fact that we are forgiven.
Saved from sin. Washed in the blood. Justified, sanctified, and soon to be glorified.
So today, take time to praise.
List the blessings God’s poured into your life, and thank him for every single one of them.
But especially thank him for giving you hope in the crucified, buried, and risen Savior.
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 05:13-18 A Call to Prayer and Praise – audio
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Text: James 5:13-18
Introduction
(Note on Bible Correspondence Course from Pakistan)
1. As is common in many of the New Testament epistles, we find various commands and exhortations as we draw near to the end of the epistle of James
2. In James 5:13-18, we find a call to pray and sing praises, with guidance as to what to do and when
Body
I. IN TIMES OF SUFFERING, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:13
A. WHAT KIND OF SUFFERING DOES JAMES REFER TO?
1. The word used refers to suffering of any kind
2. Such as sickness, bereavement, disappointment, persecutions, loss of health or property
3. Later, James will deal specifically with sickness
B. FOR WHAT SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. For the REMOVAL of the suffering, if it be the Lord’s will – 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
2. For STRENGTH to endure suffering, if it be the Lord’s will that we bear it – 1 Corinthians 10:13
a. God may not always remove the source of our suffering, for it may be for our ultimate good – Psalms 119:67, 71
b. But He promises to help us endure it!
C. FOR WHOM SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. Certainly for ourselves, as implied above
2. But also for those who may be the source of our suffering
a. As Jesus taught in Luke 6:28
b. Doing this can help greatly to endure the suffering
II. IN TIMES OF CHEER, LET US “SING PRAISES” – James 5:13
A. THE WORD “CHEERFUL”
1. Denotes pleasantness, agreeableness
2. It suggests a state of mind free from trouble, the opposite of affliction, happy!
B. IN SUCH A STATE OF HAPPINESS, ONE SHOULD SING PRAISES!
1. For singing praises is what God’s people have always done
a. Consider the attitude of David, the sweet singer of Israel – Psalms 92:1-2; 96:1-2; 101:1; 111:1; 113:1-3; 146:1-2; 147:1; 149:1
b. David was a man after God’s own heart, shouldn’t we be also?
2. For singing praises has the power to make a good situation even better – Ephesians 5:18-19; Colossians 3:16
C. WHY DON’T SOME CHRISTIANS SING PRAISES MORE OFTEN, MORE FERVENTLY?
1. Are they that “afflicted”?
2. Hasn’t God done enough in our lives to prompt us to praise Him fervently in song?
3. What excuse can we possibly give for refusing to praise God for His glory and goodness?
a. We cannot use the excuse that we cannot sing
b. God “commands” all to sing, and unless we are “mute” the command applies to us
c. Fortunately, God is not concerned with how it sounds, but that it is coming from the heart, therefore all who can speak can and should sing!
4. Heaven is described by John in the Book of Revelation as a place where singing praises to God and Christ is an on-going activity – Revelation 15:3
a. If we don’t sing praises to God on earth, though able:
b. Can we really expect to be allowed to praise God in heaven?
III. IN TIMES OF SICKNESS, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:14-18
A. ADMITTEDLY, THIS PASSAGE IS DIFFICULT
1. Questions abound concerning it
a. Is the sickness physical or spiritual?
b. Is the anointing with oil medicinal or symbolic?
c. Is the healing through providential means or miraculous?
d. Is the healing spiritual or physical?
2. First, I believe the sickness and healing in this passage is physical, though spiritual needs are taken into consideration
a. This is in view of the phrase “and IF he has committed sins, he will be forgiven”
b. This implies the sickness is physical, though it MAY be accompanied with spiritual sickness as well
c. But the conditional “IF” makes it clear that the illness may not be accompanied by sin, which if true, would mean the illness is not spiritual, but physical
3. With the assumption that physical illness is being discussed, then there are two feasible alternatives
a. This passage refers to MIRACULOUS HEALING
1) The elders were called because they possessed the gift of healing
2) The anointing with oil was symbolic, representing the influences of the Holy Spirit – Mark 6:13
b. This passage refers to PROVIDENTIAL HEALING
1) The elders were called because they were likely the most righteous in a congregation – James 5:16
2) The anointing with oil was medicinal, as was commonly practiced in those days – Luke 10:34
4. I lean toward the latter explanation
a. The first explanation must assume that the elders in every church possessed the gift of healing, which is not likely for two reasons:
1) We have no record of such in the New Testament
2) The qualifications for elders did not require this gift -1Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9
b. In illustrating the efficacy of prayer, James uses an example of God providentially answering prayer – 1 Kings 18:41-45
1) God was indeed answering Elijah’s prayer
2) But God did so, providentially, working through natural means
B. WITH THIS UNDERSTANDING, LETS MAKE THE APPLICATION
1. In times of physical sickness, call for the elders of the church
a. You want the prayers of the “righteous” working in your behalf, don’t you?
b. Notice: You are to call for them, not wait for them to call on you!
c. Have the elders pray with you
1) In faith (Trusting in the Lord’s power to heal, if it be His will)
2) Fervently (“the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”)
2. Elders should not only pray, but see that appropriate medical aids are provided
a. In a century where hospitals were non-existent, and physicians were rare, anointing with oil was a common treatment – Luke 10:34
b. In our present century, this would involve the elders making sure that the sick receive the treatment needed
3. The sick should also confess their sins, if they have any
a. Verse 15 makes it clear that sickness is not always the consequence of sin
b. But verse 16 and others (Like 1 Corinthians 11:29-32) suggests that illnesses may be God’s loving chastisement for sin, in an effort to direct us back to Him
c. In any case, sins need to be confessed and forgiveness sought if we hope to have God hear our prayers
Conclusion
1. However one interprets James 5:14-16, there is no dispute over the main thrust in this passage
a. Prayer and praise are very special privileges for the Christian
b. There is not a time in our life when we shouldn’t be doing one or the other
c. We must be careful not to underestimate:
1) The importance of praise
2) The power of prayer
2. But to truly benefit from these two spiritual exercises, we need to be in a right relationship with God
a. Which involves being open to God’s Word, “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination” – Proverbs 28:9
b. And being a doer of God’s will, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” – Matthew 7:21
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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What is Worship?
All of life is not worship.
In the modern era of religious pluralism, when anything that is offered to God with a modicum of sincerity is considered worship, many are left scratching their heads and wondering what worship really is. Some have come to the conclusion that all of life is worship and that we reverence God every time we put on our socks, or wash the dishes, or feed the cat. If people would just read the Bible, they could tell that all of life is not worship. Abraham understood this to be the case and expressed his understanding in Genesis 22:5. Worship is something that human beings do purposefully and deliberately. But, even this realization still begs the question: “What is worship?”
“Worship” in the Christian Age.
Gospel preachers of the Restoration Movement have long preached about the so-called “five acts” of worship. Like the “five steps” in the gospel plan of salvation, the five acts of worship are entirely derived from the New Testament. While they may not appear in any one passage, as a neatly compiled list, they are no less detectable, when Scripture is compared with Scripture. There is no particular order in which five acts must be done, but they all must be done, in order to constitute “worship” in the Christian Age (John 4:23-24).
The church is commanded to sing
We know that singing, for example, is one of the five acts of worship. We know this, because the church is commanded to sing in passages like Ephesians 5:19 and Colossians 3:16. We know that this singing is part of our worship because of passages like 1 Corinthians 14:15 and Hebrews 2:12. Furthermore, we know that this singing is to be done without accompaniment of mechanical instruments of music, because none of the passages that mention singing in the New Testament authorize us to do anything more or less than sing.
Prayer is mentioned as part of worship.
Also, we know that prayer is one of the five acts of worship. Christians are commanded to “pray without ceasing,” in 1 Thessalonians 5:17. Prayer is mentioned as part of worship in passages like 1 Corinthians 14:15. Passages like Matthew 6:5-15 teach how we ought to pray, both in public and in private.
Disciples came together and partook of the Lord’s Supper.
Additionally, we know that observance of the Lord’s Supper is one of the five acts of worship. When Jesus instituted this memorial feast, He said, “this do, in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19b). In 1 Corinthians 11:26, Paul wrote, “For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till he come.” Acts 20:7 shows us that, on the first day of every week, the disciples came together and partook of the Lord’s Supper, as they worshipped (Cf. 1 Corinthians 11:20-21).
Giving of our means is worship.
Furthermore, we know that giving of our means is one of the five acts of worship. Ancient Christians were taught to give of their means on the first day of every week, when the church was assembled for worship (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Ancient Christians did not give “tithes” of their income, but rather they were taught to give an offering of their own free will, which might even exceed ten percent (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).
Preaching was part of the worship services of the ancient church.
Finally, we know that preaching is one of the five acts of worship. Preaching was part of the worship services of the ancient church (Acts 20:7). Preaching is the method that God has chosen to disseminate His message to the whole world (1 Corinthians 1:21). Whether one simply reads the Scriptures aloud, or expounds upon their meaning, it is essential that the Word of the Lord be heard in the congregation of His people.
The “Five Acts” of Worship:
1. Singing (Ephesians 5:19)
2. Prayer (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
3. Communion (Acts 20:7)
4. Giving (1 Corinthians 16:1,2)
5. Preaching (1 Corinthians 1:21)
On the first day of the week (Sunday).
Apart from the five acts of worship, it is equally important for us to understand that we may worship God only on the first day of the week (Sunday). According to Acts 20:7, this was the day when the ancient church came together for just that purpose. The Bible does not authorize us to worship God on any other day. The Bible does authorize us to sing (James 5:13), pray (1 Thessalonians 5:17), give (Galalatians 6:10) and preach (2 Timothy 4:2) on other days of the week, but the only day in which we may rightly do all of the five acts of worship together is the “Lord’s day” (Revelation 1:10).
God sets the standard.
Let there be no confusion about worship in anyone’s mind. Worship is a special event, in the lives of all of God’s children. Worship is not whatever we might imagine it to be. It is what God demands of us, and it is only right that He should set the standard of what is and is not Scriptural worship.
Content by Russell Kline
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Questions and Answers 2010-07-25 – audio
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I. Question One – “Is it okay to listen to Christian music with instruments?”
A. Philippians 2:12.
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
B. We know that instrumental music is wrong in a worship service.
C. Therefore, the question is really, “What constitutes worship?”
D. There are varying opinions:
1. Some say, “When I am listening to music on the radio, I am not worshipping. It is only for entertainment. Therefore, it isn’t wrong.”
2. On the other hand some feel, “If I am listening to a spiritual song that gets me thinking about God and even praising God, then, by definition, I am worshiping.”
E. I choose not to listen to spiritual songs that have instrumental accompaniment.
F. Others see nothing wrong with it.
G. One thing is sure… Romans 14:22-24.
Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.
H. This is not an issue where we should draw lines of fellowship.
II. Question Two – “Please explain Matthew 12:31-32. Is there an unforgivable sin?”
A. Matthew 12:31-32.
“Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come.
B. In order to understand the passage properly, we have to consider the context. After all, it starts with the word, “Therefore…”
1. Matthew 12:22-35.
Then one was brought to Him who was demon-possessed, blind and mute; and He healed him, so that the blind and mute man both spoke and saw. And all the multitudes were amazed and said, “Could this be the Son of David?” Now when the Pharisees heard it they said, “This fellow does not cast out demons except by Beelzebub, the ruler of the demons.” But Jesus knew their thoughts, and said to them: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand. If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself. How then will his kingdom stand? And if I cast out demons by Beelzebub, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, surely the kingdom of God has come upon you. Or how can one enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house. He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me scatters abroad. Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come. “Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or else make the tree bad and its fruit bad; for a tree is known by its fruit. Brood of vipers! How can you, being evil, speak good things? For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure brings forth evil things.
2. Jesus had just performed an undeniable miracle.
a) Biblical miracles were always undeniable.
b) It wasn’t like supposed miracle workers today who leave people in doubt.
3. In the face of this undeniable miracle, some were willing to ascribe the miracle to Satan.
a) This is much like what we read in Acts 4:16. Saying, “What shall we do to these men? For, indeed, that a notable miracle has been done through them is evident to all who dwell in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.
b) Question: If one witnesses an undeniable miracle performed by the power of the Holy Spirit and then gives Satan the credit for that miracle; Is there anything that will convince that person? No!
4. Jesus was dealing with people whose hearts were hard! Matthew 12:34.
C. Is it possible to commit this sin today?
1. It is impossible to recreate the same circumstances today.
2. None of us have or will witness a genuine miracle.
3. So technically, it is not possible to commit this sin today.
4. However, even though there is no such thing as an unforgivable sin today; there is such a thing as unforgiven sin. The end result is the same!
III. Question Three – “When someone in the Bible believed and all his household; was it a matter of what the man said or were they doing what they were told?”
A. Acts 16:31-33.
So they said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved, you and your household.” Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes. And immediately he and all his family were baptized.
B. In the above example…
1. The jailer was told that if he believed, he would be saved.
2. He was told that if his family believed, they would be saved in the same way.
3. Each individual member of the household was accountable for their own actions.
4. They were not saved by the actions of the jailer but as a result of their own faith and obedience.
5. Notice, all the household heard the word preached and all the household was baptized.
C. If there were ever a case where the head of the house was baptized and then commanded the rest of the family to be baptized whether they believed or not, then that would be wrong.
D. There is no reason to believe that this is what happened in Acts 16.
IV. Question Four – What constitutes “provoking them to wrath?”
“As parents we are to discipline our children. At times, when they get older, they try and challenge authority (of the parent). What constitutes “provoking them to wrath?”
A. Ephesians 6:4.
And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.
B. It helps us to understand the meaning of the word “wrath.”
1. There are two main words used in the New Testament to mean wrath. Thumos & Orge. Both mean wrath but there is a difference.
2. Thumos – More emotional than Orge. It is an outburst of wrath from inward indignation. Hot, spur of the moment anger.
3. Orge – suggests a more settled or abiding condition. It is less sudden in it’s rise but also lasts longer than Thumos. It means to exasperate.
4. The word in Ephesians 6:4 is parogidzo. It means literally “to anger alongside.”
a) It is a form of the noun orge.
b) Hence, it is the longer lasting, deep seated anger.
C. As parents we are to discipline our children.
1. When we discipline them we must do it in the correct way.
2. As fathers, we are to discipline them in such a way that they know we have their best interests at heart.
3. We should be calm, and communicative when we discipline.
4. “This is why I am upset with you. This is why I have to punish you. I don’t like having to punish you. Please, let’s try to get this straightened out so I don’t have to do it again.”
5. When we discipline them in anger, we often will incite anger in them as well.
6. The punishment needs to be fair.
7. If done correctly, our children will not resent us when we discipline them.
8. Certainly, they will not enjoy the punishment. But they will not hate us for trying to help them to be the type of person that they know they ought to be.
V. Question Five – “I was thinking about the catacombs and wondered; Do Christians have to be buried?”
A. There is nothing in the Bible to suggest that a Christian has to be buried.
B. John 5:28-29.
Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth—those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation.
1. I have heard of some who believe that the above passage (and other like it) mean that we have to be buried in order to be resurrected.
2. As such they would not want to be cremated.
C. Consider this…
1. A body that has been buried for thousands of years basically just returns to dust.
2. In the first century, many Christians were burned at the stake because of the faith in Christ.
3. Other Christians over the years may have died in explosions.
4. Others may have died in shipwreck or been buried at sea.
D. Certainly, God will be able to handle such problems.
1. The bodies with which we will be raised, will be spiritual bodies anyway. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body.
2. 1 Corinthians 15:51-54. Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed—in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.”
VI. Question Six – “Denominations participate in fasting. Why do we not?”
A. Notice the following passages:
1. Matthew 6:16-18. “Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
2. 1 Corinthians 7:5. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
3. Luke 5:35. But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them; then they will fast in those days.
B. Though no fasts are commanded, the New Testament seems to take it for granted that children of God would see the need to fast occasionally.
1. Fasting can be beneficial in times of sorrow.
2. Fasting often accompanied repentance as an outward sign of genuine sorrow.
3. Fasting often accompanied important spiritual events.
a) Matthew 4:2.
b) Acts 13:2-3.
C. “Why do we not?”
1. If we are scripturally practicing fasting, you would not know it.
2. Matthew 6:17-18. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.
D. Fasting is strictly a personal and voluntary action.
VII. Question Seven – “When Adam and Eve sinned, why didn’t God destroy them?”
A. God is our Creator.
1. He knew before He even created man that they would sin. 1 Peter 1:18-20. Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you
2. It wouldn’t make any sense for Him to create man only to turn around and destroy him the first time He sinned.
3. Rather, He treated Adam and Eve like a Father.
B. He warned them of the consequences if they disobeyed. Genesis 2:17. But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.
C. Then He carried through with the punishment (Genesis 3:14-19).
Content by Ralph Price
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Questions and Answers 2010-05-30 – audio
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Podcast: Play in new window | Download
(audio is not great on this one)
I. Question One – Please discuss the withholding of physical intimacy in a marriage.
A. Sometimes, husbands or wives will withhold themselves from their spouse:
1. Because they are not getting along.
2. Because they want to punish their spouse.
B. 1 Corinthians 7:1-5.
Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
C. Several things are made clear from this passage:
1. In order to avoid sexual immorality in a marriage, the husband is not to withhold himself from his wife and the wife is not to withhold herself from her husband.
2. God created us with certain desires which need to be fulfilled. If a husband or wife does not get that need fulfilled by their spouse, the temptation is always there to get it fulfilled in another way.
3. Verse 5 very plainly states that husband and wife are not to deprive one another. To do so is sin!
4. The only exception to this is if the withholding is done…
a) By mutual consent.
b) And the intervening time is filled with fasting and prayer.
II. Question Two – “The Bible tells us to come together on the first day of the week, so we meet on Sunday morning. Why does the church of Christ meet on Sunday night and Wednesday night too? Where did this come from or start?”
A. While we are told to meet on the first day of the week, we must also realize that we certainly are not limited to meeting only once a week.
B. When we look at the practice of the New Testament church, we see that they met daily.
1. Acts 2:46-47. So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
2. Verse 47 makes it clear that “continuing daily” involved praising God and evidently teaching because the Lord was adding to the church daily.
3. While they may not have had a full fledged worship service every day, it is clear that they met and worked every day.
4. Wednesday night is simply a time to get together for Bible study and mutual edification.
C. Authority for Wednesday and two services on Sunday is also implied in the charge to elders.
1. Acts 20:28. Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.
2. 1 Peter 5:2. Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly;
3. In both of these passages, elders are told to “shepherd” or “feed” the flock.
a) The food is the word of God.
(1) 1 Peter 2:2. As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby.
(2) Hebrews 5:12-14. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
b) In order to feed the flock, the elders have set aside certain times to gather together for Bible study.
c) We are obligated to submit to them. Hebrews 13:17. Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.
III. Question Three – “When was Sunday evening worship established in the church?”
A. Put simply, it was established in the first century.
B. Acts 20:7.
Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul, ready to depart the next day, spoke to them and continued his message until midnight.
C. Evidence seems to suggest that the first century church met in the evenings more often than not.
IV. Question Four – “At what age group should a woman not be allowed to teach in the church? How do you justify the cut-off age scripturally?”
A. Our key passage is 1 Timothy 2:12.
And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence.
B. A woman is not to teach over a man.
1. So the question is, “When does a boy change into a man?”
2. The Bible really doesn’t give us a specific age.
3. Therefore, it is left up to us (or the eldership if there is one) to decide on a policy.
C. One view is that after adolescence, a boy becomes a man.
1. This is more or less the policy followed by our eldership here (at Streetsboro).
2. We try to have men always teach the classes from junior high on up.
3. We have never had a woman teach any ages older than junior high unless the class was split into boys and girls and a woman would teach the girls.
4. Junior High is about right for when a boy enters puberty and begins to become a man physically.
5. Of course, the Jews counted the age of 12 to be when a boy became a man. This coincides with Junior High age.
V. Question Five – “Are members of denominational churches no better off spiritually than if they were not worshipping at all?”
A. Members of a denomination may have a better quality of life than someone who does not worship at all.
B. But in terms of salvation, we know that one must:
1. Hear, believe, confess, repent, and be baptized.
2. If a person is a member of a church that teaches otherwise, then how could they be better off?
3. We must also worship according to truth. John 4:24.
C. Simply being religious will not be enough to get one to heaven.
1. Matthew 7:21-23. “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’
2. Matthew 15:7-9. Hypocrites! Well did Isaiah prophesy about you, saying: ‘ These people draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’”
D. In some ways, people in man-made church are worse off because they have been convinced that they are alright.
VI. Question Six – “Why do we bow our heads when we pray?”
A. The Bible mentions several different postures in prayer.
1. Standing and kneeling.
2. While standing:
a) Arms upraised – 1 Kings 8:22
b) Head bowed – Luke 18:13
3. While kneeling:
a) Arms raised – 1 Kings 8:54
b) Prostrate – Matthew 26:39
B. Why do we often choose to say, “Please bow as we pray.”???
1. Luke 18:10-14.
“Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
2. The tax collector had a humble attitude and would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven.
3. Bowing our heads is a way of showing submission, humility, and respect.
VII. Question Seven – “Outside of worship services, can a Christian listen to contemporary Christian music with instruments?”
A. Philippians 2:12.
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
B. We know that instrumental music is wrong in a worship service.
C. Therefore, the question is really, “What constitutes worship?”
D. There are varying opinions:
1. Some say, “When I am listening to music on the radio, I am not worshipping. It is only for entertainment. Therefore, it isn’t wrong.”
2. On the other hand some feel, “If I am listening to a spiritual song that gets me thinking about God and even praising God, then, by definition, I am worshipping.”
E. I choose not to listen to spiritual songs that have instrumental accompaniment.
F. Others see nothing wrong with it.
G. One thing is sure… Romans 14:22-24.
Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for whatever is not from faith is sin.
H. This is not an issue where we should draw lines of fellowship.
VIII. Question Eight – “Is there any evidence in the Bible to suggest that it would be wrong to go to the beach and for a man to wear only swimming trunks and a woman to wear a two-piece swimsuit?”
A. This is a question about modesty.
B. 1 Timothy 2:9-10.
In like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works.
1. Why is the command given to women?
2. Because men are affected a lot more by what women wear.
3. Men are stimulated visually.
4. Paul says that women are to dress in modest apparel.
a) So he is talking about what we wear.
b) We all know that it is wrong to go naked. Paul is not talking about that.
c) So think of it this way, if a two piece bathing suit is not immodest, what would be?
d) You can’t make it any more immodest. The next step is nudity.
e) If a 2 piece bathing suit is not immodest then nothing is.
C. What about men wearing only swimming trunks?
1. I am assuming we are talking about loose fitting, long shorts.
2. So the question is, “Is it wrong for a man to go shirtless?”
3. Definitely, the safest thing would be for a man to wear a shirt in the presence of women.
4. We need to think about the example we are setting.
5. “What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.”
6. However, some would say that their going shirtless would not invoke lust on the part of any woman. Therefore, it is not wrong.
7. In my mind, this is an area where we all have to make a decision for ourselves and live with it.
IX. Question Nine – “What would Jesus or God think of what’s going on now?”
A. Hebrews 13:8.
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
B. God still hates sin.
C. God still loves the sinner.
D. God still wants all men to be saved. 1 Timothy 2:4.
Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
E. Perhaps, this question is asking, “Are things worse today then they have ever been?”
1. Certainly, sin is rampant and immorality is common.
2. However, I don’t think we’ve reached the conditions that existed at the time of the flood. Genesis 6:5. Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.
Content by Ralph Price
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Take Time to be Holy
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Introduction
1. Our songs in worship are designed to instruct as well as praise
a. For in them we teach and admonish one another
Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
b. By them the Word of Christ can dwell in us richly – Colossians 3:16
2. A familiar song with an important message is “Take Time To Be Holy”
a. Words written by W.D. Longstaff
b. Music composed by GeorgeC. Stebbins
3. Certainly the children of God are to be holy
a. We are to be holy in our conduct
1 Peter 1:15 but as He who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct,
b. Even as our Father who calls us is holy
1 Peter 1:16 because it is written, “BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY.”
4. Indeed, holiness is to be pursued, for without it one will not see the Lord
Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord
5. In this lesson, we will let the words of this song serve as the basis for our study. Note first that the song assumes…
Body
I. THE NEED TO TAKE TIME
A. THE WORLD RUSHES ON
1. As expressed in the beginning of the second verse
2. Our lives are certainly hectic and fast-paced
3. Filled with activities that consume our time
4. And our lives are but a vapor
James 4:13-14 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away.
5. Before we know it, time will have slipped by
B. IT TAKES TIME TO BE HOLY
1. The key presumption upon which this song is based
2. Holiness must be pursued
Hebrews 12:14 Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord
3. Holiness is the fruit of service to God
Romans 6:22 But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.
4. Holiness must be perfected
2 Corinthians 7:1 Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
5. If we are not careful, time to develop holiness will be gone
a. So we must “Take Time To Be Holy.”
b. It needs to be a priority in our lives.
c. How does one take time?
II. THE WAY TO TAKE TIME
A. SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD
1. The song encourages us to:
a. “Abide in Him always”
b. “Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone”
2. The means to do so involve:
a. Prayer, as suggested by the song
1) “Speak oft with thy Lord”
2) “Forgetting in nothing His blessings to seek”
b. The Word of God (“Feed on His Word”)
3. Do we take time to be with the Lord?
a. Through prayer, where the Lord is ready to intercede?
Hebrews 4:14-16 Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Hebrews 7:25 Therefore He is also able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them.
b. Through the Word, which testifies of our gracious Lord?
John 5:39 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me.
1 Peter 2:2-3 as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.
4. We cannot overestimate the importance of finding time to be with the Lord alone through prayer and the Word!
B. SPEND TIME WITH OTHERS
1. This includes fellowship with other Christians (“Make friends of God’s children”)
a. Which the early Christians continued in steadfastly
Acts 2:42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.
b. Which helps to ensure faithfulness and steadfastness
Hebrews 3:12-14 Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God; but exhort one another daily, while it is called “TODAY,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of Christ if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end
c. Which includes the idea of frequent assembling
Hebrews 10:24-25 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
2. This includes service to our fellowman (“Help those who are weak”)
a. A duty enjoined upon Christians
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
Acts 20:35 I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ “
b. Service toward all, but especially our brethren
Galatians 6:10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
c. Ministering our abilities to one another
1 Peter 4:10-11 As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
d. We must not be so busy that we don’t have time to be with brethren and to help others as we have opportunity!
[As one takes time to be with the Lord, His people, and in service to them and others, a transformation slowly takes place…]
III. THE BENEFITS OF TAKING TIME
A. YOU WILL BE BLESSED
1. With inner peace and happiness (“Be calm in thy soul”)
a. Through frequent prayer
Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
b. Through frequent meditation upon the Word
Psalms 1:1-3 Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree Planted by the rivers of water, That brings forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.
Psalms 119:165 Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.
2. With renewed strength (“Each thought and each motive beneath His control”)
a. Through your relationship with Christ
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
b. Through the indwelling of the Spirit
Romans 8:12-13 Therefore, brethren, we are debtorsnot to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.
3. With increasing realization of God’s love (“Led by His Spirit to fountains of love”)
a. A manifestation of the Spirit in our lives
Romans 5:5 Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
b. Whose fruit produces love
Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
4. Is this not sufficient motivation to “take time to be holy”?
B. YOU WILL BE MORE CHRIST-LIKE…
1. The ultimate goal of discipleship (“Like Him thou shalt be”)
a. As explained by Jesus
Luke 6:40 A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher.
b. As foreordained by God
Romans 8:29 For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.
2. A transformation noticed by others (“Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see”)
a. The result of spending time with Jesus – e.g., Peter and John
Acts 3:12 So when Peter saw it, he responded to the people: “Men of Israel, why do you marvel at this? Or why look so intently at us, as though by our own power or godliness we had made this man walk?
b. The result of giving yourself to such things – e.g.,Timothy,
1 Timothy 4:15 Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.
3. Prepared for greater service (“Thou soon shall be fitted for service above”)
a. For we will serve God in heaven, and in the new Jerusalem
Revelation 22:3 And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him.
b. Indeed, we will reign with Christ and God forever!
Revelation 22:5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever.
4. Is this not even more motivation to “take time to be holy”?
Conclusion
1. Remember the need to take time
a. The world rushes on, and would carry us along with it
b. Our time in this life is short, we must have our priorities straight
2. Are you taking time, indeed, making time?
a. To spend time alone with God, in prayer and the Word?
b. To spend time with others, in fellowship and service?
3. We must take time, if we desire to
a. Experience the blessed life Jesus offers
b. Become more Christ-like in our conduct
4. May this song (“Take Time To Be Holy”) always remind us of the need to slow down, and to do those things so crucial to our spiritual growth and happiness!
5. Have you taken the time to respond to the gospel of Christ…?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Psalm 100 Singing
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(Getting More Out of the Singing)
Text: Psalm 100:1-5
Introduction
1. An important part of our assemblies the act of singing praises
a. We spend nearly a third of our assemblies engaged in this activity
b. Rightly so, for it has the potential of reaping great spiritual benefits
2. Singing is an important element of our worship
a. It is mentioned in the text upon which our title is based – Psalm 100:2
b. There were those in Old Testament times who delighted in singing – Psalm 63:3-5
c. Christians were taught to respond to the goodness of God in a similar way – James 5:13
3. But I often wonder if some have lost the joy of singing
a. Many Christians sing with virtually no emotion, some do not sing at all!
b. I have personally known Christians, who
1) Complained because time available for classes was taken up by the singing of a few hymns
2) Will not attend a worship service if they know it will be devoted primarily to singing
c. In contrast, it was common in the past for people to travel some distance to attend a service devoted to praising God in song
4. Why do such conditions exist? I suspect it may be a failure to appreciate:
a. The true purpose of singing
b. How we can get more out of singing?
Body
I. THE PURPOSE OF SINGING
A. TO PRAISE THE LORD
1. This is the most common concept of the purpose of singing
a. Indeed, this is certainly the idea inherent in the word ‘hymn’
b. Which comes from the Greek word humnos, “a song in praise of”
2. Praising God should be a natural for Christians !
a. David reacted this way to the blessings God gave him – Psalm 28:6-7
b. Paul and Silas even reacted to persecution with singing praises – Acts 16:25
3. Singing is one of the spiritual sacrifices that we are to offer to God – Hebrews 13:15
a. As spiritual priests we offer up “spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God” – 1 Peter 2:5
b. If we are not careful, we might be guilty of offering defiled service to God as was the case in Malachi’s day! – cf. Malachi 1:7-8, 12-13
4. Is not God worthy of our best praise?
B. TO TEACH AND ADMONISH ONE ANOTHER
1. Our singing is not just directed toward God
a. Certainly, many songs are
b. But many songs are rightly directed to each other – cf. Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19
2. That’s because many songs are designed to teach one another
a. Teaching and admonishing us to live properly, to enjoy the blessings of the Christian life
b. It might even be said that ‘congregational singing’ is actually ‘congregational teaching’!
3. Do not our brethren deserve the best encouragement we can offer?
C. TO BE FILLED AND ENRICHED
1. Singing can be a means to being filled with the Spirit
a. Paul charged the Ephesians to be filled with the Spirit – Ephesians 5:18
b. He explained how: by singing and making melody in one’s heart to the Lord – Ephesians 5:19
2. Singing can be a means to being enriched by the Word of Christ
a. Paul charged the Colossians to let the Word of Christ dwell in them richly – Colossians 3:16a
b. Again he explains: by singing with grace in one’s heart to the Lord – Colossians 3:16b
3. For a truly Spirit-filled life enriched by the Word of Christ, singing is essential!
II. GETTING MORE OUT OF OUR SINGING
A. ENGAGE THE ‘MIND’ AS YOU SING
1. Remember, singing is teaching and admonishing one another
2. This assumes that we understand what we sing – cf. 1 Corinthians 14:15
3. We must be careful that our enjoyment of singing is not like how many people enjoy their popular music (i.e., liking the music without necessarily understanding the words)
4. Give careful attention to the words of the songs
B. ENGAGE THE ‘HEART’ AS YOU SING
1. When we sing, we must do so
a. “with grace in your hearts” – Colossians 3:16
b. “making melody in your heart” – Ephesians 5:19
2. This assumes that we involve our ‘heart strings’ (emotions) as we sing!
3. To sing without emotion (without grace in our hearts)
a. Is hypocritical, and condemned by Jesus! – Matthew 15:7-8
b. Will be evident in our countenances! – cf. Proverbs 15:13
4. Put your heart into your singing
C. EXPAND THE SPHERE OF YOUR SINGING
1. Is your singing limited just to the public assemblies, on the first day of the week?
2. Singing, like prayer, ought to be spontaneous, arising whenever the circumstances call for it – cf. Acts 16:25; Psalm 34:1-3
3. Sing while you work, travel, or while alone in your private meditations
4. Make use of hymns on tapes or CDs when traveling or meditating
5. Take advantage of special opportunities to sing, such as monthly and annual singings
6. Increase your opportunities to sing at other times with others, and when alone
D. UTILIZE OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN TO SING
1. Singing is more enjoyable when we are able to read musical notes, sing different parts
2. Churches often provide singing classes; every opportunity to sing is an opportunity to learn
3. Take advantage of any opportunity to learn how to sing
Conclusion
1. Singing is like any other activity…the more you put into it, the more you get out of it
2. Increase your joy of singing, and you will get much more out of your worship times.
3. Have we lost the joy of singing…?
a. If we could see ourselves as song leaders do, we might be constrained to say yes
b. If so, rekindle this act of worship which can do so much toward “Serving The Lord With Gladness”
4. May David’s attitude, truly describe our own when it comes to singing:
“I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” – Psalm 104:33
“Praise the Lord! For it is good to sing praises to our God; For it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.” – Psalm 147:1
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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Discipline of Singing
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Introduction – Prayer – Meditation – Fasting – Singing – Fellowship – Giving
Introduction
1. Our study of spiritual disciplines have so far examined such spiritual exercises as
a. Prayer – especially the value of secret, simple, and steadfast prayer
b. Meditation – contemplating God, His works, His words, and things worthy of virtue
c. Fasting – as a means of humbling one’s self before God, especially when joined with prayer
2. Another discipline in which we engage regularly is singing
a. We spend nearly a third of our assemblies engaged in this activity
b. Rightly so, for it has the potential of reaping great spiritual benefits
3. But I wonder if some do not appreciate the value of singing
a. Many Christians sing with virtually no emotion, some do not sing at all!
b. I have known Christians, who
1) Complained because time available for classes was taken up by singing a few hymns
2) Will not attend a worship service if they know it will be devoted to singing
4. Singing as a spiritual discipline is of great value, and should be a habit engaged by those who desire to grow in godliness.
Body
I. THE PURPOSE OF SINGING
A. TO PRAISE THE LORD (UPWARD)
1. This is the most common concept of the purpose of singing
a. Indeed, this is certainly the idea inherent in the word ‘hymn’
b. Which comes from the Greek word humnos, “a song in praise of”
2. The Psalms call upon us to praise God in song
a. “Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, And give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name.” – Psalm 30:4
b. “Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises! For God is the King of all the earth; Sing praises with understanding.” – Psalm 47:6-7
c. “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.” – Psalm 95:1
d. “Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! Sing to the LORD, all the earth.” – Psalm 96:1
e. “Sing to the LORD, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day.” – Psalm 96:2
3. Praising God in song should be a natural for Christians!
a. David reacted this way to the blessings of God – Psalm 28:6-7; 59:16-17
b. Christians are taught to sing praises when joyful – James 5:13
c. Paul and Silas even reacted to persecution by singing praises – Acts 16:25
B. TO TEACH AND ADMONISH ONE ANOTHER (OUTWARD)
1. Singing is not always directed toward God
a. Certainly, many songs are
b. But songs are often directed to each other – cf. Colossians 3:16; Ephesians 5:19
2. That’s because many songs are designed to teach one another
a. Teaching and admonishing us to live properly, to enjoy the blessings of the Christian life
b. It might even be said that ‘congregational singing’ is actually ‘congregational teaching’!
C. TO BE FILLED AND ENRICHED (INWARD)
1. David wrote of the personal benefit of singing praises
a. It made his lips and soul to greatly rejoice – Psalm 71:23
b. He found it to be pleasant and beautiful – Psalm 147:1
2. Singing can be a means to being filled with the Spirit
a. Paul charged the Ephesians to be filled with the Spirit – Ephesians 5:18
b. He explained how: by singing and making melody in one’s heart to the Lord – Ephesians 5:19
3. Singing can be a means to being enriched by the Word of Christ
a. Paul charged the Colossians to let the Word of Christ dwell in them richly – Colossians 3:16a
b. Again he explains: by singing with grace in one’s heart to the Lord – Co 3:16b
D. Singing is a wonderful spiritual discipline that blesses God, those who hear us and even us as we sing. How can we get more out this spiritual discipline?
II. THE PRACTICE OF SINGING
A. ENGAGE THE MIND AS YOU SING
1. Remember, singing is teaching and admonishing one another
2. This assumes that we understand what we sing – cf. 1 Corinthians 14:15
3. We must be careful that our enjoyment of singing is not like how many people enjoy their popular music (i.e., liking the music without necessarily understanding the words)
B. ENGAGE THE HEART AS YOU SING
1. When we sing, we must do so
a. “with grace in your hearts” – Colossians 3:16
b. “making melody in your heart” – Ephesians 5:19
2. This assumes that we involve our ‘heart strings’ (emotions) as we sing!
3. To sing without emotion (without grace in our hearts)
a. Is hypocritical, and condemned by Jesus! – Matthew 15:7-8
b. Will be evident in our countenances! – cf. Proverbs 15:13
C. EXPAND THE SPHERE OF YOUR SINGING
1. Is your singing limited just to the public assemblies, on the first day of the week?
2. Singing, like prayer, ought to be spontaneous, arising whenever the circumstances call for it – cf. Acts 16:25; Psalm 34:1-3
3. Take advantage of special opportunities to sing, such as monthly and annual singings
4. As a spiritual exercise, it should be done in private devotions as well as in public worship
a. Sing while you work, travel, or alone in your private meditations
b. Make use of hymns on tapes or CDs when traveling or meditating
Conclusion
1. David exemplifies the attitude of one who exercises himself through the discipline of singing
a. “I will sing to the LORD, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.” – Psalm 13:6
b. “I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to You among the nations.” – Psalm 57:9
c. “I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” – Psalm 104:33
2. He likewise calls upon us to sing praises both in public and in private
a. “Praise the LORD! Sing to the LORD a new song, And His praise in the assembly of saints.” – Psalm 149:1
b. “Let the saints be joyful in glory; Let them sing aloud on their beds.” – Psalm 149:5
3. As we seek to exercise ourselves unto godliness (2 Timothy 4:7), consider the discipline of singing as an appropriate complement to other spiritual activities such as prayer, meditation, and fasting
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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