Why Don't Some Churches of Christ Use Instruments in Worship?
The absence of musical instruments in some Churches of Christ worship services stems from a deeply held interpretation of biblical scripture and a commitment to a cappella singing. This practice, while not universal across all Churches of Christ (as there is significant diversity within the denomination), is rooted in a specific understanding of how worship should be conducted. Understanding this requires examining their theological perspectives and historical context.
What Does the Bible Say About Instrumental Music in Worship?
The core argument against instrumental music in worship within this tradition hinges on the interpretation of New Testament passages, particularly those describing early Christian worship. Proponents of a cappella singing point to the lack of explicit mention of instrumental music in these accounts. They argue that the absence of such mention, coupled with descriptions of singing and prayer, implies that instrumental music was not part of the early church's worship practice. The emphasis is on the simplicity and purity of the worship experience, mirroring what they believe to be the early church's model.
Is There a Single, Universal Interpretation?
It's crucial to understand that the interpretation of these biblical passages isn't universally agreed upon, even within the Churches of Christ. There's a significant diversity of opinion and practice regarding instrumental music, with many Churches of Christ congregations incorporating instruments into their worship. The absence of instruments is more accurately described as a particular tradition within the broader Churches of Christ movement, not a defining characteristic of the entire denomination.
What About the Old Testament?
While the New Testament is the primary focus of this discussion, some also reference Old Testament practices involving instrumental music in temple worship. However, proponents of a cappella worship often distinguish between Old Testament temple worship and New Testament church worship, arguing that the nature of worship shifted with the coming of Christ. They contend that the Old Testament's regulations and practices concerning temple worship are not directly applicable to the contemporary Christian church.
What Are the Concerns About Using Instruments?
Beyond the biblical interpretation, some Churches of Christ that avoid instrumental music express concerns about potential distractions from the focus on God. The emphasis is on the congregational participation in singing, believing it fosters unity and encourages heartfelt worship. Some also believe that instruments might lead to a more performance-oriented style of worship, potentially detracting from the simplicity and sincerity they value.
Are There Any Other Reasons for Avoiding Instruments?
Historically, the avoidance of instruments may also be linked to a desire for uniformity and a rejection of practices deemed "unbiblical" by certain factions within the Churches of Christ movement. This desire for purity in worship practices has played a significant role in shaping the traditions of some congregations.
Why Do Some Churches of Christ Use Instruments?
As mentioned earlier, the absence of instruments is not a universal practice within the Churches of Christ. Many congregations incorporate instruments into their worship, offering different interpretations of scripture and different perspectives on the nature of worship. These churches often believe that there is nothing inherently wrong with using instruments in worship and that they can enhance the worship experience.
In conclusion, the decision regarding the use of instruments in Churches of Christ worship services is a complex one, stemming from deeply rooted theological interpretations and historical context. Understanding the nuances of this debate requires acknowledging the diversity of opinion and practice within the denomination itself. While the absence of instruments is a significant tradition for some, it's not a universally defining characteristic of all Churches of Christ.
