Why Should We Sing In Church?

By Larry Billinger

Introduction: The Divine Soundtrack

One of my life’s most impactful worship experiences was at Passion One Day Live in Memphis, Tennessee. I had never experienced anything like it. Little did I know that I would show up to a field with 50,000 other college students ready to learn about and praise God. Up to this point, I had been mostly shy about singing, and worship was not necessarily my favorite part of my relationship with God. I would have rather been playing bass guitar with the worship band on stage than singing in the crowd.

However, when the music started, and the air was taken over by the voices of all the other believers singing, I couldn’t even hear my own voice. Knowing I didn’t need to worry about others hearing me sing, I decided to sing as loud as possible. If you have heard me sing, you know I can belt it out. Still, I couldn’t hear myself over the choir of college students. I broke down, man! I couldn’t sing because I wanted to cry with joy at that moment. It was so beautiful.

That memory has always stuck with me as a personal experience of what heaven must be like. Just absolute joy at being able to worship my God, with everyone in that place sharing the same goal and ambition through all our differences—to worship the one and only God. I’ve had some pretty great worship moments like that since then, but that was by far the best. For those of you reading this who were there with me, I know you had a similar experience. I’ve included a video of that day, but it does no justice to actually being there.

Music as a Divine Tool

Music was given to us by God as a tool to worship Him. Like many things, it can also be used outside of worshipping Him. Secular music can evoke a response and a feeling because that’s how God created us. When we go to a sporting event, and we are all cheering for the same team, and all our voices are in unison for one goal, I believe that is actually something that God designed us to do for Him in heaven. But we have found other secular ways of living that out.

I’m not saying it’s bad to do it, but for any men out there who say they don’t like to sing but can get crazy about cheering on your favorite football team, you’ve got that yearning inside of you to worship God. For others who can go to a concert to cheer on your favorite musician, you have that yearning in you. It’s just never been expressed the right way due to likely some style that you don’t like or the environment has been made so sterile or it’s lost sight of God and is focusing on other things like tradition or some musician on stage. That place is here on earth, somewhere where we can worship God.

Music as a Divine Tool

• Biblical Basis: The Bible supports the idea that music is a gift from God used for worship. In the Old Testament, the Psalms are filled with songs of praise, and King David is a prominent figure who used music to worship God (Psalm 150:3-5). In the New Testament, Ephesians 5:19 encourages believers to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in their hearts to the Lord.

Secular Music and Emotional Response

• Biblical Basis: While the Bible does not explicitly discuss secular music, it acknowledges that music can evoke emotional responses. For instance, in 1 Samuel 16:23, David’s music refreshes Saul and alleviates his distressing spirit.

Cheering at Sporting Events and Concerts as a Parallel to Worship

• Biblical Perspective: The idea that humans are designed to worship and that secular activities like cheering at sporting events or concerts can reflect this innate desire is a reasonable interpretation. Ecclesiastes 3:11 states that God has set eternity in the human heart, suggesting an inherent longing for something greater, which can be seen as a desire to worship.

Worship Styles and Environments

• Biblical Insight: The Bible does not prescribe specific worship styles, recognizing diversity in worship practices. John 4:24 emphasizes that worship should be in spirit and truth, suggesting that the heart’s posture is more important than the style or environment.

A Biblical Prelude

The Bible is filled with references to music as a form of worship. From the songs of Moses and Miriam in Exodus 15 to the Psalms of David, music has always been a crucial element in expressing devotion to God. King David himself appointed Levites to be musicians in the temple (1 Chronicles 25:1), showing the importance of music in worship.

David, together with the commanders of the army, set apart some of the sons of Asaph, Heman and Jeduthun for the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by harps, lyres and cymbals. 

1 Chronicles 25:1

Heaven’s Playlist: The Scriptural Evidence

Several passages in the Bible suggest that music will indeed be a part of our heavenly worship:

• Revelation 5:9: “And they sang a new song, saying: ‘You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood, you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation.'”
• Revelation 14:3: “And they sang a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and the elders. No one could learn the song except the 144,000 who had been redeemed from the earth.”
• Revelation 15:2-3: “And I saw what looked like a sea of glass glowing with fire and, standing beside the sea, those who had been victorious over the beast and its image and over the number of its name. They held harps given them by God and sang the song of God’s servant Moses and of the Lamb.”

These passages describe scenes of heavenly beings singing new songs of praise, indicating that music will be an integral part of worship in heaven.

Scriptural Examples of Musical Worship

The Bible provides numerous examples of music being used as a form of worship:

• Exodus 15:1-2: After the Israelites crossed the Red Sea, Moses and Miriam led the people in a song of victory and praise to God. This song celebrates God’s deliverance and is one of the earliest examples of corporate worship through music.
• 1 Samuel 16:23: When Saul was troubled by an evil spirit, David played the harp to soothe him. This shows the power of music to bring peace and spiritual relief.
• 2 Samuel 6:5: David and the whole house of Israel celebrated before the Lord with all kinds of instruments when bringing the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem. This event highlights the joy and communal aspect of worship music.
• 1 Chronicles 16:8-36: David’s song of thanks when the Ark was placed in the tent. This lengthy psalm includes elements of praise, thanksgiving, and proclamation of God’s deeds.
• Psalm 150: This entire psalm is a call to praise God with music, listing various instruments like the trumpet, harp, lyre, tambourine, strings, pipe, and cymbals.
• 2 Chronicles 5:13-14: During the dedication of Solomon’s temple, the musicians and singers united in praise and thanksgiving to God, resulting in the glory of the Lord filling the temple.
• Acts 16:25: Paul and Silas sang hymns to God while in prison, illustrating how music can be a form of worship even in difficult circumstances.
• Ephesians 5:19: Paul encourages the early Christians to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in their hearts to the Lord.

Traditions of Worship: Instrumental Controversies

Specific traditions in many churches, especially in the United States, shape worship practices. Some denominations believe certain instruments are more appropriate for worship, while others reject musical instruments altogether. However, the Bible presents a strong case for using instruments in worship.

The Piano’s Journey to the Church

Often viewed as a traditional worship instrument, the piano has a relatively short history in churches. Originally, pianos were used in secular settings, including bars. Over time, the piano made its way into churches despite initial resistance from traditionalists. This illustrates how cultural and historical contexts influence perceptions of what is considered “appropriate” for worship.

Biblical References to Instruments

• Psalm 150: This psalm lists various instruments for praising God, including trumpets, harps, lyres, tambourines, strings, pipes, and cymbals. This broad array of instruments underscores their acceptance in worship.
• 2 Samuel 6:5: David and all the house of Israel celebrated with various instruments before the Lord, indicating that worship was a communal, joyous event involving music.
• 1 Chronicles 15:16: David commanded the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers and to play musical instruments, demonstrating that instrumental music was integral to worship.

Counterarguments to Instrument-Free Worship

Some denominations believe worship should be a cappella, without instruments. They often cite the New Testament’s lack of explicit instructions to use instruments in worship. However, this view overlooks the numerous Old Testament references to instrumental worship and the broader biblical principle that all forms of artistic expression can glorify God.

More Than a Melody: The Purpose of Music in Worship

Music is viewed as a powerful tool to draw closer to God. It’s not just about melodies or harmonies; it’s about the heart’s cry, the soul’s expression, and the spirit’s connection to the divine. When we sing hymns and worship songs, we are participating in a practice that transcends time and space, joining with the angels and saints in a chorus that has no end.

Defining Worship Songs: Lyrics and Themes

What makes a song a worship song? The lyrics play a crucial role in defining worship music. Worship songs should focus on glorifying God, expressing adoration, thanksgiving, and devotion. However, there is debate about the nature of these lyrics.

Personal vs. Corporate Worship

Biblical Examples for Personal Worship

• Psalm 23: David’s psalm is intensely personal, reflecting his individual relationship with God as his shepherd. This psalm is a heartfelt expression of trust and reliance on God’s guidance and care.
• Luke 1:46-55: Mary’s Magnificat is a personal song of praise in response to God’s work in her life. It is an intimate expression of joy, gratitude, and reverence for God’s favor and mighty deeds.

Other Examples:

• Psalm 51: David’s psalm of repentance is a personal plea for forgiveness and renewal after his sin with Bathsheba. It is a deeply personal expression of guilt, sorrow, and hope for restoration.
• Matthew 6:6: Jesus instructs, “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” This emphasizes the importance of personal, private worship.
• Mark 1:35: Jesus himself modeled personal worship by often withdrawing to solitary places to pray, demonstrating the importance of individual communion with God.

Biblical Examples for Corporate Worship

• 2 Chronicles 5:13-14: The musicians and singers united in praise and thanksgiving to God, resulting in the glory of the Lord filling the temple. This event highlights the power and significance of collective worship.
• Acts 2:46-47: The early church worshiped together, breaking bread in their homes and praising God together. This passage illustrates the communal aspect of worship and the unity it fosters among believers.

Other Examples:

• Nehemiah 8:6: Ezra praised the Lord, and all the people lifted their hands and responded, “Amen! Amen!” Then they bowed down and worshiped the Lord with their faces to the ground, showing the collective reverence and response to God’s word.
• Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” This passage emphasizes the importance of gathering for worship and mutual encouragement.
• Revelation 7:9-10: A great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language stood before the throne and before the Lamb, worshiping God together with a loud voice, “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” This vision of heavenly worship highlights the diverse, inclusive, and collective nature of worship in God’s presence.

Personal and Corporate Worship: Complementary Practices

Both personal and corporate worship are biblically valid. Personal worship allows individuals to connect with God intimately, while corporate worship fosters community and unity among believers. Both forms of worship have their place and importance in a balanced spiritual life.

Masculine and Feminine Expressions in Worship

Biblical Examples of Masculine Expressions:

• Psalm 18: David’s song of deliverance emphasizes strength, victory, and God’s protection. This psalm celebrates God’s might and His role as a powerful deliverer.
• Exodus 15:3: “The Lord is a warrior; the Lord is his name,” sung by Moses and the Israelites. This song portrays God as a mighty warrior, emphasizing His strength and power.

Biblical Examples of Feminine Expressions:

• Luke 1:46-55: Mary’s Magnificat reflects humility, joy, and God’s mercy. This song expresses deep gratitude and reverence for God’s blessings and faithfulness.
• Exodus 15:20-21: Miriam’s song and dance with timbrels and dancing express celebration and joy. This event highlights the exuberant, joyful expression of worship through dance and music.

The Bible contains both masculine and feminine expressions of worship, suggesting that worship should encompass a full range of human emotions and experiences. Focusing too much on one aspect may limit the richness of our worship.

Common Questions About Worship

Is There a Difference Between Praise and Worship?

Yes, there is a difference between praise and worship, though they are closely related. Praise is often more exuberant and outwardly expressive, focusing on celebrating God’s greatness and works. Conversely, worship is more intimate and reflective, centering on adoration and reverence for who God is.

Why Should We Praise and Worship God?

We should praise and worship God because it is a biblical command (Psalm 150:6, John 4:23-24). Praise acknowledges God’s greatness and works, while worship honors His holiness and character. Worship also draws us closer to God, transforming our hearts and aligning our lives with His will.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord.

Psalm 150:6

Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. ²⁴ God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

John 4:23-24

What If I Hate Singing and Have a Bad Voice?

God cares more about the heart behind our worship than the quality of our singing. Psalm 100:1 says, “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!” This implies that joyful, heartfelt praise is what matters, not musical perfection. If singing isn’t your strength, you can still worship through prayer, reading Scripture, serving others, and other forms of artistic expression.

Conclusion: A Symphony of Praise

In conclusion, the Bible provides a rich tapestry of examples and teachings on musical worship on earth and heaven. From the personal psalms of David to the collective songs of the Israelites, from the hymns of the early church to the prophetic visions of Revelation, music is a powerful and essential element of worship. As we look forward to eternal worship in heaven, let us embrace the full spectrum of musical expression, honoring God with our voices, instruments, and hearts.