Tags
Bethlehem Baptist Church, John Piper, Michael Raiter, Singing, The Slow Death of Congregational Singing, Worship
When I read this quote from Michael Raiter’s article, “The Slow Death of Congregational Singing,” I thought about a decision we made at Bethlehem 13 years ago. The article said:
I was at a convention recently, seated near the rear of the auditorium. The music team at the front were ‘leading’ (and I use that word advisedly) and we were singing. Well, we were meant to be singing…. I turned to a friend next to me and commented, “No-one’s singing”. He looked at me as if I’d just observed that no-one was flying. Of course they’re not singing; we haven’t really sung here for years.
Thirteen years ago we asked: What should be the defining sound of corporate worship at Bethlehem, besides the voice of biblical preaching?
We meant: Should it be piper organ, piano, guitar, drums, choir, worship team, orchestra, etc. The answer we gave was “The people of Bethlehem singing.”
Some thought: That’s not much help in deciding which instruments should be used. Perhaps not. But it is massively helpful in clarifying the meaning of those moments.
If Bethlehem is not “singing and making melody to the Lord with [our] heart,” (Ephesians 5:19), it’s all over. We close up shop. This is no small commitment.
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Patrik said:
Hello! My name is Patrik. I´m married with Eija. I´m 38 years old. Can you please encourage me how I shall read Gods word? I´m longing for to grow and recieve that character that the Lord wants for me. That I shall be a true friend to the Lord, and that I might walk in His obedience. I want to change and recieve a ear that hear, a heart that is obedient. I want to be humble before the Lord. I would be encouraged if you could prophecy wich call I have. I would like to be a man of God that always hears Gods word. I want that the bible shall be a reality for me. I want that my heart shall beat like the Fathers heart.
Thank you for your ministry
God bless you and your family.
From Patrik and Eija.