Faith & Reason Nexus

Scriptural References

• Ephesians 5:19: “Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.”
• Colossians 3:16: “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly… singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

Historical Timeline

• A.D. 30
• Early Church Practices: From the beginning of the church until the 5th century, the church sang without the accompaniment of mechanical instruments.
• 5th Century
• Introduction of Mechanical Instruments: Mechanical instruments of music were introduced, marking a shift in worship practices as Roman Catholicism began to take shape.
• Use of Organ: The organ was introduced as an accompaniment in worship.
• 16th Century
• Reformation Leaders’ Opposition: Mechanical instrumental accompaniment in worship was unanimously opposed by all major Reformation leaders.
  • John Wesley: “I have no objections to instruments of music in our chapels, provided they are neither heard nor seen.”
  • John Calvin: “Musical instruments in celebrating the praises of God would be no more suitable than the burning of incense, the lighting of lamps, and the restoration of the other shadows of the law.”

Conclusion

• New Testament Church Practices: The New Testament church remains true to the practice of singing without mechanical instrumental accompaniment.
• Emphasis on Heartfelt Worship: Melody is to be made in the heart (Ephesians 5:19), not on an instrument, reflecting a deeper, more spiritual form of worship.