What is your opinion about instrumental music in the church?

Question:

I was having a heated conversation with a very close friend of mine about musical instruments in church. It is very hurtful to know the word of God and try and explain it to someone, but they refuse to listen. I know that the Bible does not specifically say "thou shalt not have musical instruments in church," but I tried to explain to my friend that when Christ came he made all things anew. The human voice is the best instrument of all. The church that I attend does not believe in instruments in church. What is your opinion?

Answer:

I try very hard to avoid personal opinions when it comes to the Bible. "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" (I Peter 4:11).

There are numerous documents on instrumental music on this web site. Let me recommend starting with "The Amazing History of Instrumental Music in Christian Worship." Next, go over the information on instrumental music. If you find a particular point that isn't addressed, you are welcome to write and ask about it.

It is likely that even if you presented a rock-solid argument against instrumental music, your friend may not listen anyway. Some people aren't interested in truth, they are only interested in justifying the practices they have chosen to do. Do the best you can and if he doesn't listen, it is not because you failed -- it is because he didn't listen. Even the Master Teacher, Jesus, didn't convince everyone he spoke to, so why would you expect something different? "A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. It is enough for a disciple that he be like his teacher, and a servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebub, how much more will they call those of his household! Therefore do not fear them. For there is nothing covered that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known" (Matthew 10:24-26).

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