Subject: Are new worship songs scripturally OK? |
Bible Note: Hi, Hank; I think the "push" comes from contemporary songwriters who, like the old-timers you revere, are moved to express their faith, their love of Jesus, their joy, and their gratitude in music. And I think you will find that much of the sacred music you admire was published and/or performed at a profit. Would you say that Charles Spurgeon and D. L. Moody provided all the sermons the church needs? Should we muzzle Billy Graham because Moody already said it? The church was well blessed with hymns before Fanny Crosby wrote her 150 or so, before Horatio Spafford wrote "It Is Well with My Soul", and before Bill and Gloria Gaither wrote (among many others) "Because He Lives". Although the style may differ, I don't think Keith Greene (several wonderful praise songs) or Graham Kendrick (most of the music for the March for Jesus), or Jack Hayford ("Majesty") have anything to apologize for and neither do the congregations who sing their music. Contemporary songwriters still turn to the Sciprtures and often to the Psalms for their inspiration. I'm a 56-year-old Presbyterian; we are sometimes referred to as "the frozen chosen". I think some folks in this thread who may not be Presbyterians could do with a little thawing too. ;-) Peace and grace, Steve |