The apostle Paul instructed the church at Colossae to “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord” (Colossians 3:16). Note that not only is our singing directed to the Lord, it is also a means through which we teach one another through the biblical thoughts contained in the songs we sing.
During my 40 years of preaching, I have sometimes wondered why such attention is given to the faithfulness of the message that is preached each week but very little attention is given to the message we teach in our songs. Apparently, many are concerned that truth is “preached” but have no qualms if truth is not “taught” in our songs.
This article aims not to present a laundry list of spiritual songs we should not sing. Rather, it is a reminder to those who lead in this part of worship to be diligent in making certain we are singing the truth. So, what steps can be taken to ensure we are teaching truth in our songs?
- Remember that the doctrine we teach in songs is as important as the doctrine we preach from the pulpit.
- Give less time focusing on the beauty of the musical arrangement and spend more time carefully reading through the words of the song to be certain they are biblical. Wouldn’t churches be served far better if a song leader’s preparation involved an open Bible next to his open songbook?
- Remember that the intent of singing is to teach and admonish one another. Choosing songs with questionable lyrics that we try to put a “spin-on” to make them work defeats the purpose of singing. The goal is communication of God’s word. When we have to work to make questionable lyrics fit, what are we communicating to others who may be confused or misled by the lyrics?
Brethren, singing is a powerful medium. Congregations can be strengthened or undermined by their singing. If we are to harness the power of singing for good, we must give special care and attention to the lyrics we are teaching. Make certain that we are communicating clearly and truthfully the message of God’s word.