Sermon Tone Analysis

Acts 16:25

Introduction

It is a commonly noticed element of our worship that we do not incorporate instruments.

This is obviously fairly unique in the religious world and so it invites comments and questions.

Over the course of the next few Sundays we will talk about this element of our worship in a way that is hopefully helpful to our members and to those who might visit with us.

This morning we are going to simply look the instruction to sing and what all that entails without really considering the instrument question.

The Command

Two passages give us the clearest form of instruction (Eph.

5:19; Col. 3:16).

We are going to spend time defending why we sing without instruments but the purpose of these passages is not to highlight the lack of instruments.

If we only ever refer to a passage as proof for something (legitimate though it may be) we lose some substance.

Consider the context of Eph. 5.

There is the back and forth comparison of what they should put away and what they should put on.

It is a culminating element that they should put away filling themselves with what dulls their senses and rather fill themselves with what sharpens their spiritual minds - singing psalms hymns and spiritual song with all thanksgiving.

So there is a purpose of combatting worldliness here and worldly thought.

It is about cultivating knowledge and wisdom.

It is to be saturated with thanksgiving.

It is a tool to be used for these purposes.

Think about that when some question the value of singing as compared to other elements of worship.

Now consider the context of Col. 3:

Here the context is developing attitudes of unity.

Here are songs, hymns, and spiritual songs that cannot be sung honestly without developing the real harmony that our voices picture.

Hebrews 13:15 gives us still another context in which singing is commanded.

We have some of the same elements here of sensuality and unity.

But here the overriding theme is suffering.

Singing is what helps you cling to Him in the face of increasing persecution.

Paul further instructs that our singing must be clear (1 Cor.

14:15).

We see these elements playing out in examples (Rom.

15:9; Acts 16:25).

Finally, we add the almost assumed element of joy (Jas.

5:13).

Accomplishing the Purpose

What does it take to have clarity (1 Cor.

14:7-9, 26)?

What does it take to have good instruction?

What does it take to build up unity?

What does it take to stir up courage?

At the very least, instruments are unnecessary for all of these purposes.

Conclusion

We need to focus our attention not only on bare doctrinal correctness or even technical proficiency for its own sake.

We need to give as much focus to the affirmative purpose we are trying to accomplish.

Don’t just show up and go along.

Seek to grow in this area of vital worship in all the ways God means for you to.

Are you able to sing all of these stirring lyrics with honest lips?

Bring your life into harmony with your words.