Does I Timothy 2:8 justify clapping in worship?
Question:
While studying the Bible with an elderly lady earlier, she mentioned that she remembers praising God as a child by clapping her hands, stomping her feet, and raising her hands. She claims that it is a scriptural way of worshiping God according to I Timothy 2:8.
Your thoughts?
Answer:
"Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension" (I Timothy 2:8).
Christian men and women in prayer
The woman assumes much. Lifting up hands was a way Christians prayed. There is no mention of clapping or stomping of feet and, thus, provides no justification.
Yes, in Bible classes for small children the use of songs and motion are used because small children can't communicate well. Hand and body motions help them to lock things in their memories. However, what is used in a small children's Bible study isn't a pattern for what God finds acceptable in the worship assembly.
Response:
Thanks for the information.
