The Need for a Robust Understanding of Congregational Singing
Body
“Today, January 13, we remember the Hussites who, on this day in 1501, published the first hymnal in history written in the language of the common people.” - Breakpoint
As iron sharpens iron,
one person sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17)
“Today, January 13, we remember the Hussites who, on this day in 1501, published the first hymnal in history written in the language of the common people.” - Breakpoint
“I believe churches should move away from these kinds of services. My reason is simple: music-specific services actively promote division in the body of Christ.” - 9 Marks
“Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of Righteousness! …there was no misprint.” - Dan Wells
“1. More churches include at least one hymn in their worship services. …2. Congregational singing is as important as the worship style. …3. Hymnals are not rebounding even as hymns do. ” - Thom Rainer
“Five praise music songwriters on how they handle criticism, work together, and seek to reach Gen Z through their work.” - C.Today
“When we’re discussing hymns being ‘well-written,’ we’re not only referring to the lyrics but also the melody. Great melodies tend to gain staying power; they endure across generations.” - 9 Marks
“Why is this singing so heartfelt, even though the accompaniment is so simple? How did they get so many men to sing their lungs out?” - TGC
McDonald’s sells more than burgers, Amazon sells more than books, and a AAA membership offers far more benefits than just roadside assistance. We easily associate a brand name or well-known company with a limited sample of its products or services when it actually produces or offers much more. If we’re not careful, we do the same thing in the church when we view or portray worship as the musical part of Sunday morning gatherings. I say this because worshiping God encompasses so much more than music.
“In most churches today, the worship time has become a concert. …I visit churches pretty much for a living, and as I look around during the services, the vast numbers of the congregation are watching the stage and listening – not singing.” - Phil Cooke
“Several people responded to Aniol by posting Bible verses that describe people raising hands in worship…Psalm 63:4 and 1 Timothy 2:8… Aniol responded, ‘Prayer. Not emotional singing.’” - C.Leaders
Discussion