We are told that music was first introduced in Genesis 4:21. A descendant of Cain, by the name of Jubal, invented the first musical instruments. Jubal is credited with developing the musical arts. He invented or created wind and stringed instruments, such as the harp and the organ. Music in church and religion has been a part of human culture since the beginning of time. Music is used as an expression of happiness, sadness, and a way to praise God. In Job 38, it is said that “the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.”
In the Old Testament, music plays a crucial role in communicating with God and in worship services. Moses and the Israelites sang songs and praised God when being pursued and at the Red Sea. In Second Chronicles 5, trumpeters and singers joined together to thank God in one loud voice. This expression exemplified the power of corporate prayer. Psalms are full of descriptions of music, musical instruments, and singing praises to God. Psalm 150:3-5 describes several instruments. This verse states, “Praise Him with the sound of trumpets, praise Him with harp and lyre. Praise Him with tambourines and dancing, praise Him with strings and flute. Praise Him with clashing cymbals.” This one example in Psalms shows the all-inclusive nature of worshipful music.
The Bible also demonstrates that music played a crucial role in recording important events and conveying messages from God. Deuteronomy 31 instructs Moses to write down a song so that future generations may use it. Much of history in various parts of the world was recorded in song before written language was created. God gave us the ability to enjoy music and to sing. Even those like me who do not sound so good. It makes perfect sense that people who did not or could not write would preserve history in song. In the New Testament, Colossians 3:16 states, “Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your heart to God.” This instruction makes it plain that music is more than just a performance. Music is intended to educate, build communities, and strengthen the church and its believers. The word “psalms” comes from the Greek word “psalmos.” Psalmos means a song accompanied by a stringed instrument, such as a harp, psaltery, cithara, or lyre. Ephesians 5:19 tells us, “Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” Even near the end of the Bible, Revelation 5:8 describes singing and musical instruments, stating, “And when he had taken it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each one had a harp, and they were holding golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of God’s people.”
Why do we use music in church is easy to figure out. Songs and music condense a message and make it easy to remember. Music is fun and touches our hearts, creating a new attitude. If a person listens, their mind and heart will connect with the message in a way that words alone cannot. We talk about having the Holy Spirit in our hearts. Music allows this spirit to show itself. Music allows those who struggle to communicate effectively to express themselves in a different way. Deuteronomy 6:5 tells us to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.” Music allows us to follow God’s command to sing and make a joyful noise. There are over 150 commands in Psalms alone. God is telling us to sing his praises. Paul urges the Ephesians and us to “be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
In recent years, Christian music has gained popularity among younger members of society. There are many theories as to why this sudden change has occurred. Since the 1960s, young people have been searching for something, but never really knew what they were missing. Rock music, alcohol, drugs, and a sense of bewilderment seemed to control many young people. Many young people, either by accident or on purpose, have found gospel music to fill some of the voids in their lives.
“Delving deeper into the influence of Gospel music, it directly touches the hearts of the youth due to its combination of relatable lyrics and rhythmic tunes. This genre of music primarily communicates spiritual messages and life lessons from the Bible, making it an effective vehicle in instilling Christian teachings among young people. It becomes a tool for affirmation, motivation, and consolation, especially in situations when they grapple with various teenage problems like peer pressure, identity confusion, and existential questions. More importantly, Gospel music transcends the boundaries of entertainment, as it serves as a platform for youth to express their faith creatively and meditate on the teachings of Christianity. This genre enables them to firmly establish their spiritual foundation and encourages them to live according to Christian values.” (Walls)
“We have all heard the idiom, ‘Music is good for the soul.’ But according to the evidence, it is good for your health as well.” (Drevitch, 2017) Music is undoubtedly good for the church.
Drevitch, G. (2017, 8 17). Music Is Good for the Soul and Your Health. Retrieved from Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/201708/music-is-good-the-soul-and-your-health#:~:text=We%E2%80%99ve%20all%20heard%20the%20idiom%2C%20%E2%80%9CMusic%20is%20good,psychological%20conditions%20including%20dementia%2C%20anxiety%2C.
Walls, E. &. (222). Impact and Influence of Christian Music on Youth. Retrieved from World Youth FunDay: https://worldyouthsunday.com/blog/impact-and-influence-christian-music-to-youth/