Can a woman lead a song outside of worship?

Question: Recently there was a funeral of one of our former members. It was held at their home. Our members preached the service, led songs, and one of the prayers. Then the family said that two ladies wanted to sing a song. They sang a song that we sing many times in worship. They asked…

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How Song Leaders Can Pick Good Hymns

by Matthew W. Bassford via His Excellent Word Over the past month or two, I’ve heard from a few people who were wondering why I was writing so much about good and bad hymns. What’s the take-home? What’s the so-what? I have an extremely strong view of congregational autonomy, so I’m not trying to dictate to…

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Is it right for a church to have a paid minister of music?

Question: Hello, I am a member of a Church of Christ that currently doesn’t have elders. The congregation is “run” by the minister and a few hand-picked men who basically say yes to whatever the minister wants to do. This has bothered me since this minister arrived at our congregation several years back, but now…

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Can a woman lead a song while giving testimony in church?

Question: Hi sir, Is it right for a woman to raise songs when she is about to give testimony? I am asking because this issue is bringing confusion among us. The Bible says a woman should not lead in the church, but when this woman is about to give her testimony about the wonderful things…

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Should pitch pipes be used before a song?

Question: I have a very hard time worshiping in song after someone uses a pitch pipe. I have discussed it with brethren in our congregation. Some agree they don’t like it either. If we visit other places for gospel meetings, it’s to me like fingernails on a chalkboard. I heard a few sermons that try…

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Should some songs not be sung?

Question: I read your review of Jeffcoat’s songbook and have some questions about certain songs in general. What are your thoughts on the following songs: My God and I Jesus hold my hand I come to the garden There’s a royal banner (vs. 3 from Praise for the Lord). These are songs I struggle with.  The first…

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My grandson wants to learn to lead singing. What do you suggest?

Question: Hello, I’m searching for a CD of a capella hymns for my grandson who is attempting to lead the singing at our Wednesday night Bible studies.  He has no music training or special talent except that he is very willing.  I think the music he could sing along with would probably be best for…

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Thank you for the tips on song leading

Question: Thank you so much for the tips that you have displayed on the site about Song Leading in the Church. I have been part of the church of Christ as far back as I can remember.  I am very thankful that my parents raised me in this church. I was inspired by my late Grandfather to become a…

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Should young boys lead singing in worship?

Question: The congregation I am meeting at has, on the last Wednesday night of the month, a singing night. We don’t have classes that night. We come together in the auditorium and sing songs, pray and someone gives a short ten-minute lesson. We let the boys get up in front of the congregation with their…

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