To KINGSFOLD
Affliction, constant sorrow brings
As arrows cutting deep
Bereft of hope, and without joy
My soul is void of peace
I look back on my suffering
And this one thing is sure
The Lord is loving, good, and kind
His promise will endure
When in the deep abyss of sin
The Lord allowed my doom
My enemies around did rise
Their curse became my tomb
I called upon Your name, O LORD
Out of the deepest pit
You heard my cry with listening ear
And told me, “Do not fear!”
The mocking song, my rivals sang
Their lips against me rose
The Lord did come to my defense
He scattered all my foes
In Christ, O Lord, you have drawn near
My life has been redeemed
And now Christ stands before the throne
For me, to intercede
Monday, May 25, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
Psalm 62--final
Psalm 62
For God, my rock, my safe defense
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
All you, who will be slain
A leaning wall, you will collapse
A fence that will not stand
For God alone my soul will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my rock
Defense against the foe
My glory and my salvation
My strength and surety
The refuge for all, found in God
No man will e'er shake me
Do not, in vain, put hope in men
Nor trust in wealth or fame
For man is but a fleeting breath
A sigh too brief to name
For He has spoken, I have heard
That pow'r belongs to God
And mercy to reward each man
According to his work
For God, my rock, my safe defense
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
All you, who will be slain
A leaning wall, you will collapse
A fence that will not stand
For God alone my soul will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my rock
Defense against the foe
My glory and my salvation
My strength and surety
The refuge for all, found in God
No man will e'er shake me
Do not, in vain, put hope in men
Nor trust in wealth or fame
For man is but a fleeting breath
A sigh too brief to name
For He has spoken, I have heard
That pow'r belongs to God
And mercy to reward each man
According to his work
word richly dwelling, teaching and admonishing, singing with thankfulness, words in the name of the Lord Jesus
"Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father." Colossians 3:16-17 NASV
Time's They are A-Changin'
It seems that Sally and Joe have some interesting discoveries about human beings. After millennia of thinking a certain way about God, responding a certain way to traditional church services, and having certain original sin issues, today’s postmodern man defies those classifications. No longer is a brooding, impersonal God good enough for him. Nor is a dry, humorless, lifeless liturgy enough to connect with him innermost desires. And he doesn’t struggle so much with keeping God’s law and meeting just demands, he just needs to remember to do all things in love in a broken world that’s falling apart. Fortunately for us, savvy thinkers like Joe and Sally have been able to discern the differences between medieval, historic, biblical, depraved man and/or woman, and the new man.
Joking aside, I was struck today by the overwhelming arrogance of saying that people, society, or culture today is something that it has never been before. We don’t know, in fact we can’t know! Only time gives us enough perspective to be able to rightly judge how our time compares to other times.
Joking aside, I was struck today by the overwhelming arrogance of saying that people, society, or culture today is something that it has never been before. We don’t know, in fact we can’t know! Only time gives us enough perspective to be able to rightly judge how our time compares to other times.
Kieran's Hymn text (revised, but still incomplete)
Behold the one who knew you first
before the world began
Who made the garden paradise
and placed the stars o'rhead
who made the river's endless streams
and fowl's endless skies
He made the world by spoken means
with order recognized.
Insert 2nd verse about moralists condemned (romans 2-3)
Behold, to justify himself
how little man is fit
How precious that the Lamb of God,
his own death would permit.
the Righteous Sovereign's holiness
damns more than we could bleed
Christ offered self as sacrifice
to satisfy our need
Behold the firstborn from the dead,
the great Creator, King
Who by His hands, we now abide
and by His hands exist
For you were once His enemies
and did your evil deeds
He reconciled you by his grace
His blood and cross make peace
C.M.D. DEAR REFUGE
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Psalm 1 [a metrical psalm]
1.
Bless'd is the man who does not walk
In wicked ones' deceit
Nor does he stand in sinner's way
Nor sits in scoffer's seat
And he does not delight in sin
But in God's righteous law
Where day and night it is his joy
To ponder all day long
2.
The blessed man is like a tree
Who by the streams is found
His fruit is ripe, his leaf is strong
And all he does abounds
The wicked are not like the bless'd
Who firmly planted are
But like the chaff that blows away
To places near and far
3.
Therefore the wicked will not stand
There on the judgment day
Nor sinners with the righteous ones
Who prospered in God's ways
For God is just and knows all things
He will reward us all
The righteous will be bless'd by God
But wicked ones will fall
Teary, Last-Night-of-Camp Testimonial
About midway through my years in highschool, I became a propenent of hymn-based congregational worship. I had grown sick of the shallow lyrics in most contemporary music and saw hymns as the only valid alternative. Since then, my love for hymns old and new has further cemented my opinion that hymn-based, congregational worship was the best option. Since I knew that the class Hymnology was based on studying hymns, I assumed that my preference for hymn-based worship would only increase.
However, this was not the case. Instead of developing a deepening passion for congregational worship based in hymns, this class has helped develop a deepening passion for congregational worship based in truth. I truly have a better understanding of priorities in congregational worship. It is of primary importance that the saving and sanctifying knowledge of Christ, as proclaimed in the gospel, revealed in the Bible, permeates and defines the congregational worship. The packaging of that message is secondary and only valuable because it can aid that which is primarily important.
All this to say, I still think hymn-based congregational worship is perhaps the best form of congregational worship out there. And I have not lost an enthusiasm for worship forms which best aid the congregation. But I no longer confuse this secondary issue with that which is of first importance. Namely, the worship of God in Spirit and in truth.
Psalm 1:5 [stanza 3a]
Therefore the wicked will not stand
There on the judgment day
Nor sinners with the righteous ones
Who prospered in God's ways
There on the judgment day
Nor sinners with the righteous ones
Who prospered in God's ways
Galations 1 (Thursday)
Grace and peace from God the Father
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Christ, who offered up Himself when
Our deliv’rance he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We escape this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
Though the devil may conceive of
“Gospels” seeming to be true;
Painting Christ as partial savior
Helped along by what we do.
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds,
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached.
Let no angel come from heaven
Nor a teacher from the earth
Preach a gospel that would lead us
From the gospel we have heard:
By the law no man is righteous
But by faith we’re justified.
All our sin and guilt was carried
To the cross when Jesus died.
Circumcision has no value,
Nor the keeping of the law:
If you fail to keep one mandate
Then you’ve failed to keep them all.
But the law was just a guardian,
We’ve no reason for dismay:
Jesus Christ is our redeemer
And has saved us by his grace.
Knowing that we’ve been entrusted
With the pow’r of God to save
We must preach no other gospel
Then the one God’s Word proclaims.
We must not desert our calling
Doubting Christ’s all-saving grace!
Our new life came by the Spirit
Perseverance from the same.
[We have nothing good to offer,
Only punishment is due.
All our hope is in the gospel:
Christ has been our substitute.]
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Christ, who offered up Himself when
Our deliv’rance he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We escape this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
Though the devil may conceive of
“Gospels” seeming to be true;
Painting Christ as partial savior
Helped along by what we do.
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds,
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached.
Let no angel come from heaven
Nor a teacher from the earth
Preach a gospel that would lead us
From the gospel we have heard:
By the law no man is righteous
But by faith we’re justified.
All our sin and guilt was carried
To the cross when Jesus died.
Circumcision has no value,
Nor the keeping of the law:
If you fail to keep one mandate
Then you’ve failed to keep them all.
But the law was just a guardian,
We’ve no reason for dismay:
Jesus Christ is our redeemer
And has saved us by his grace.
Knowing that we’ve been entrusted
With the pow’r of God to save
We must preach no other gospel
Then the one God’s Word proclaims.
We must not desert our calling
Doubting Christ’s all-saving grace!
Our new life came by the Spirit
Perseverance from the same.
[We have nothing good to offer,
Only punishment is due.
All our hope is in the gospel:
Christ has been our substitute.]
Three Cheers for D.A. Carson
I really loved that interview with Don Carson.
I loved this comment on repetitious songs:
"This is why I don't like things that go on and on, repeating the same thing again and again. They are like mantras. They worry me. Not that there shouldn't be any repetition-some of the psalms are repetitious-but when it becomes a way of building people up to an emotional high, it's a form of manipulation that is not godly. "
But the most helpful was his explanation of New Covenant worship; an event that, unlike its predecessor, occurs anywhere, anytime. The importance then of Sunday Morning is that the worshiping church meets together, for things like "instruction, edification, the Lord's Supper, sharing with one another, confessing sins, prayers, singing, and so on."
I loved this comment on repetitious songs:
"This is why I don't like things that go on and on, repeating the same thing again and again. They are like mantras. They worry me. Not that there shouldn't be any repetition-some of the psalms are repetitious-but when it becomes a way of building people up to an emotional high, it's a form of manipulation that is not godly. "
But the most helpful was his explanation of New Covenant worship; an event that, unlike its predecessor, occurs anywhere, anytime. The importance then of Sunday Morning is that the worshiping church meets together, for things like "instruction, edification, the Lord's Supper, sharing with one another, confessing sins, prayers, singing, and so on."
Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally
At first I had to ask what was wrong about the emergent movement. Sally's Presentation of the different stories seemed to be a thorough way of teaching the stories of the bible characters. Then I read about the three stones for Peter's denials. Then I realized that a large amount of her goal is an experiential event, and her comments on page 230 make me think of a 'close encounter of the third kind,' but instead of Aliens, you get to meet with this mystical God creature!
While her methods for teaching might be useful in a para-church setting, calling these teaching methods Sunday morning worship is probably stretching it.
While her methods for teaching might be useful in a para-church setting, calling these teaching methods Sunday morning worship is probably stretching it.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Planning for the Future
Harold Best's article was like a breath of fresh air to me. Among all the different thoughts on church music, I believe his could be the most helpful to the church today. In his very articulate way, Best has identified many problem spots for church music, and has given great Biblical responses to them.
One of the errors he identifies in in the area of planning. I think Best is right in asserting that the church has, in many ways, focused so much on the present, that we have given no thought to the future and the effect our current choices will have on the next generation. I do believe that sometimes we concentrate on getting what we want immediately, which causes us to use "solutions" that are temporary at best, bandages that, once used, are discarded and are of no further use. I think that the church needs to think about the solutions they are implementing in, and send much time searching the scriptures for the qualifications that God puts on worship, and then see if our modes and models reflect them.
One of the errors he identifies in in the area of planning. I think Best is right in asserting that the church has, in many ways, focused so much on the present, that we have given no thought to the future and the effect our current choices will have on the next generation. I do believe that sometimes we concentrate on getting what we want immediately, which causes us to use "solutions" that are temporary at best, bandages that, once used, are discarded and are of no further use. I think that the church needs to think about the solutions they are implementing in, and send much time searching the scriptures for the qualifications that God puts on worship, and then see if our modes and models reflect them.
Manipulating someone to Christ
The idea of manipulating people to Christ has come up over and over again in our reading both in our discussion book and in our online reading. It is frightening that so many of our churches are trying to manipulate people to Christ and make the "sheepfold" look like the place that they are in now, all under the guise of "seeker-sensitive" and "culturally relevant." Surely the believers that are leading these churches aren't consciously manipulating, at least I'll give them the benefit of the doubt. But if you do get sheep into the sheepfold using this method, when do you tell them the truth about God's expectations? More importantly, are they really sheep? Was there a true conversion? Was there ever a discussion of sin? That discussion will always make someone uncomfortable, at least in this culture where first people need to be convinced that they are dirty rotten sinners.
Jesus, What a Friend for Sinners!
While I was jogging this afternoon I listened to Michael Card's CD project "Hymns". It's a collection of both well-known and obscure hymns coupled with acoustic-ish, irish-ish, folk-ish instrumentation. One of the songs in the collection is "Jesus, What a Friend for Sinners!", which also happens to be one of our required hymns.
As I was jogging, I listened carefully to the text and was encouraged by the rich, biblical language the hymn writer uses to describe Jesus. He uses titles such as "lover of my soul", "strength in weakness", "help in sorrows", "guide and keeper", etc. I was reminded of how truly helpful hymns can be in raising the affections of the heart as the mind considers the many beauties of Christ. Each title helps us gaze more intently upon another facet of the infinitely faceted gem that is Christ. Our minds cannot now behold all his brilliant glories and excellencies together at one time. Truly "now we see in a mirror dimly". Yet hymns like "Jesus, What a Friend for Sinners!" remind us of the inexhaustible sufficiency of Jesus, and cause us to long for the day when we will no longer see through dim mirrors, but rather face to face.
As I was jogging, I listened carefully to the text and was encouraged by the rich, biblical language the hymn writer uses to describe Jesus. He uses titles such as "lover of my soul", "strength in weakness", "help in sorrows", "guide and keeper", etc. I was reminded of how truly helpful hymns can be in raising the affections of the heart as the mind considers the many beauties of Christ. Each title helps us gaze more intently upon another facet of the infinitely faceted gem that is Christ. Our minds cannot now behold all his brilliant glories and excellencies together at one time. Truly "now we see in a mirror dimly". Yet hymns like "Jesus, What a Friend for Sinners!" remind us of the inexhaustible sufficiency of Jesus, and cause us to long for the day when we will no longer see through dim mirrors, but rather face to face.
Final: 1 Peter 1:3-6
Bless'd be the God and Father of
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has born us to new life
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
We orphans poor that God did choose
Were destitute in sin
But God in Christ broke sin's dread curse
And made us rich in Him
Not with earth's treasures that will fade
In rusted, man-made tombs
But with unceasing glory, bright
Reserved in heav'n for you
And though the Devil greatly yearns
To draw us from Christ's fold
The Father holds us in His hand
Through sovereign pow'r untold
The Spirit sealed us for the day
He is our guarantee:
Our bodies shall be glorified
And Christ, in glory, see
So let no trial or distress
Cause your heart to despair
But rise and bless the Lord, your God
for his salvific care
From end to end remption is
All His own gracious deed
Rejoice with joy unspeakable
That God does save indeed
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has born us to new life
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
We orphans poor that God did choose
Were destitute in sin
But God in Christ broke sin's dread curse
And made us rich in Him
Not with earth's treasures that will fade
In rusted, man-made tombs
But with unceasing glory, bright
Reserved in heav'n for you
And though the Devil greatly yearns
To draw us from Christ's fold
The Father holds us in His hand
Through sovereign pow'r untold
The Spirit sealed us for the day
He is our guarantee:
Our bodies shall be glorified
And Christ, in glory, see
So let no trial or distress
Cause your heart to despair
But rise and bless the Lord, your God
for his salvific care
From end to end remption is
All His own gracious deed
Rejoice with joy unspeakable
That God does save indeed
it ends where it started, Colossians 1...
Behold the one who knew you first
before the world began
Who made the garden paradise
and placed the stars o'rhead
who made the river's endless streams
and the fowl's endless skies
He made the world by spoken means
with order recognized.
*Insert 2nd verse about moralists condemned (romans 2-3)
Behold, to justify himself
how little man is fit
How precious now the Lamb of God,
his own death would permit.
He offered self as sacrifice
to satisfy the need
the Righteous Sovereign's holiness
damns more than we could bleed
Behold the firstborn from the dead,
the great creator, King
Who by his hands, we now abide
and by His hands exist
And you were once His enemies
and did your evil deeds
He reconciled you by his grace
His blood and cross make peace
C.M.D. Possibly to 'Dear refuge of my weary soul'
before the world began
Who made the garden paradise
and placed the stars o'rhead
who made the river's endless streams
and the fowl's endless skies
He made the world by spoken means
with order recognized.
*Insert 2nd verse about moralists condemned (romans 2-3)
Behold, to justify himself
how little man is fit
How precious now the Lamb of God,
his own death would permit.
He offered self as sacrifice
to satisfy the need
the Righteous Sovereign's holiness
damns more than we could bleed
Behold the firstborn from the dead,
the great creator, King
Who by his hands, we now abide
and by His hands exist
And you were once His enemies
and did your evil deeds
He reconciled you by his grace
His blood and cross make peace
C.M.D. Possibly to 'Dear refuge of my weary soul'
psalm 62--reworked...
How's this? I made some changes and adjustments, so could you let me know what you think?
Psalm 62 (set to Kingsfold maybe?)
For God, my rock, my safe defense
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
You all, who will be slain
A leaning wall, you will collapse
A fence that will not stand
For God alone my soul will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my hope
Defense against the foe
My glory and my salvation
My strength and surety
The refuge for all, found in God
No man will e'er shake me
Do not, in vain, put hope in men
Nor trust in wealth or fame
For man is but a fleeting breath
A sigh too brief to name
For He has spoken, I have heard
That pow'r belongs to God
And mercy to reward each man
According to his work
Psalm 62 (set to Kingsfold maybe?)
For God, my rock, my safe defense
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
You all, who will be slain
A leaning wall, you will collapse
A fence that will not stand
For God alone my soul will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my hope
Defense against the foe
My glory and my salvation
My strength and surety
The refuge for all, found in God
No man will e'er shake me
Do not, in vain, put hope in men
Nor trust in wealth or fame
For man is but a fleeting breath
A sigh too brief to name
For He has spoken, I have heard
That pow'r belongs to God
And mercy to reward each man
According to his work
A Matter of Preference?
Is the distinction between the Old Covenant and New Covenant so great that worship as prescribed in the Psalms is obsolete to the prescription in the New Testament?
What is their relationship anyway?
Well obviously they're not equally viable: one cannot get around the mandate to sing in Col 3 and Eph 5.
Is the "God-wardness" found more concretely in the Psalms an outdated, pre-Christ form of worship, replaced now by the one another-ward singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs?
What is their relationship anyway?
Well obviously they're not equally viable: one cannot get around the mandate to sing in Col 3 and Eph 5.
Is the "God-wardness" found more concretely in the Psalms an outdated, pre-Christ form of worship, replaced now by the one another-ward singing of psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs?
Psalm 1:1-4 [stanzas 1 and 2]
OK. Here she goes. Rhymes and everything.
Bless'd is the man who does not walk
In wicked one's deceit
Nor does he stand in sinner's way
Nor sit in scoffer's seat
And he does not delight in sin
But in God's righteous law
Where day and night it is his joy
To meditate a lot
The blessed man is like a tree
Who by the streams is found
His fruit is ripe, his leaf is strong
And all he does abounds
The wicked are not like the bless'd
Who firmly planted are
But like the chaff that blows away
to places near and far
C.M.D.
Bless'd is the man who does not walk
In wicked one's deceit
Nor does he stand in sinner's way
Nor sit in scoffer's seat
And he does not delight in sin
But in God's righteous law
Where day and night it is his joy
To meditate a lot
The blessed man is like a tree
Who by the streams is found
His fruit is ripe, his leaf is strong
And all he does abounds
The wicked are not like the bless'd
Who firmly planted are
But like the chaff that blows away
to places near and far
C.M.D.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
american hymnody
I found the chapter on American Hymnody particularly interesting. Learning the heritage of our "founding fathers" who made such huge contributions to the church while our country was still being formed is just so fascinating to me. I thought it was really neat to read about how great English indivudals like George Whitefield visited and shared their wealth of knowledge with the early-Americans, aiding in a revival throughout the colonies. To think about what an incredible foundation our country has is astounding. We are so priviledged to be founded upon the principles laid down by Scripture, and presented to us by people like Whitefield and Edwards.
Lamentations Reworking
I've decided to rework my text a little bit and just make it C.M.D. instead of using that one part as a refrain. Here is my reworked 1st verse.
Affliction constant sorrow brings
As arrows cutting deep
Bereft of peace, and without joy
My soul is void of hope
I look back on my suffering
and this one thing is sure
The Lord is loving, good, and kind
His promise will endure
To the tune KINGSFOLD
Affliction constant sorrow brings
As arrows cutting deep
Bereft of peace, and without joy
My soul is void of hope
I look back on my suffering
and this one thing is sure
The Lord is loving, good, and kind
His promise will endure
To the tune KINGSFOLD
Historical Hymns and their Historical Contexts [part III]
On page 98 of our textbook, there is a short little comment made in reference to Thomas Symmes pamphlet, Utile Dulci or a Joco-Serious Dialogue, Concerning Regular Singing. It says that this pamphlet refuted the principle arguments against regular singing.
Three observations...First, there was a lot of improvising occuring in church music at that time. So much so that it was just ridiculous. Second, in response, people like Thomas Symmes attempted to remedy that problem by teaching congregants to read music. Third, these efforts did not come without opposition.
When I read the comment in the book, I laughed. I couldn't believe that people would actually argue against reading music and an orderly song time in church. But then I realized that I think that way because I understand the history preceeding their time and the history of their time. It seems to me that a good solution to the so-called "worship wars" today is a good dose of historical education. Only then would one realize that there is nothing new under the sun and that there are time-tested ways of doing things that transcend the cultural trends. Only when a person understands history can they fully understand the times in which they live and therefore make informed, wise, and just plain common sense decisions.
Three observations...First, there was a lot of improvising occuring in church music at that time. So much so that it was just ridiculous. Second, in response, people like Thomas Symmes attempted to remedy that problem by teaching congregants to read music. Third, these efforts did not come without opposition.
When I read the comment in the book, I laughed. I couldn't believe that people would actually argue against reading music and an orderly song time in church. But then I realized that I think that way because I understand the history preceeding their time and the history of their time. It seems to me that a good solution to the so-called "worship wars" today is a good dose of historical education. Only then would one realize that there is nothing new under the sun and that there are time-tested ways of doing things that transcend the cultural trends. Only when a person understands history can they fully understand the times in which they live and therefore make informed, wise, and just plain common sense decisions.
Psalm 62
For God, my rock, my salvation
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
All of you will be slain
Like a leaning wall you will fall
A fence you will not stand
For God alone my soul will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my rock
Defense against the foe
My salvation and my glory
My strength and surety
The refuge for all, found in God
No man can shaken me
Do not vainly put hope in men
Nor trust in wealth or fame
For man is but a fleeting breath
A sigh too brief to name
For He has spoken, I have heard
That pow'r belongs to God
And mercy to reward each man
According to his work
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
All of you will be slain
Like a leaning wall you will fall
A fence you will not stand
For God alone my soul will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my rock
Defense against the foe
My salvation and my glory
My strength and surety
The refuge for all, found in God
No man can shaken me
Do not vainly put hope in men
Nor trust in wealth or fame
For man is but a fleeting breath
A sigh too brief to name
For He has spoken, I have heard
That pow'r belongs to God
And mercy to reward each man
According to his work
More Thursday's Reading
Is the church a house of worship? An interview with Don Carson, Research Professor of New Testament at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.
http://www.beginningwithmoses.org/articles/carsonworship.htm
http://www.beginningwithmoses.org/articles/carsonworship.htm
Thursday's Reading
"Theology, Music Seekers and Sensitivity" by Harold Best
http://www.leaderu.com/offices/haroldbest/seeker.html
http://www.leaderu.com/offices/haroldbest/seeker.html
Missing Pages in Dever Reading
Hey you all,
The online Dever reading for tomorow is missing pages 119, 121, and 124-125. Not to worry. I've made copies of the enitre chapter -- so we can discover what is missing in the chapter. And --by the way, I've taken down the Warren reading. It's rather unhelpful. Blessings!
The online Dever reading for tomorow is missing pages 119, 121, and 124-125. Not to worry. I've made copies of the enitre chapter -- so we can discover what is missing in the chapter. And --by the way, I've taken down the Warren reading. It's rather unhelpful. Blessings!
1 Peter 1:3-5
Bless'd be the God and Father of
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has born us to new life
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
We orphans poor that God did choose
Were destitute in sin
But God in Christ broke sin's grim curse
And made us rich in Him
Not with earth's treasures that will fade
In rusted, man-made tombs
But with unceasing glory, bright
Reserved in heav'n for you
And though the Devil greatly yearns
To draw us from Christ's fold
We are held in the Father's hand
Through sovereign pow'r untold
The Spirit sealed us for the day
He is our guarantee:
Our bodies shall be glorified
And Christ, in glory, see
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has born us to new life
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
We orphans poor that God did choose
Were destitute in sin
But God in Christ broke sin's grim curse
And made us rich in Him
Not with earth's treasures that will fade
In rusted, man-made tombs
But with unceasing glory, bright
Reserved in heav'n for you
And though the Devil greatly yearns
To draw us from Christ's fold
We are held in the Father's hand
Through sovereign pow'r untold
The Spirit sealed us for the day
He is our guarantee:
Our bodies shall be glorified
And Christ, in glory, see
Simply the Prelude
One of the ideas that both Robert Webber and Joe Nesom mentioned was the idea that singing is often viewed as a mere preliminary to the main event: preaching. This seems so unhelpful especially in light of the corresponding Colossians and Ephesians passages that speak of singing as a means of teaching and admonishing on another. Singing can be such a valuable time for a congregation to declare and affirm truth together with the heart and mind. It's no wonder so many strange things haved popped up in our services (liturgies) if congregational singing is simply viewed as a way to burn time before the main event.
Galations 1
Grace and peace from God the Father
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Christ, who offered up Himself as
Our deliv’rance he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We’ve escaped this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
Though the devil may conceive of
“Gospels” seeming to be true
Painting Christ as partial savior
Helped along by what we do
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds,
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached.
Let no angel come from heaven
Nor a teacher from the earth
Preach a gospel that would lead us
From the gospel we have heard:
By the law no man is righteous
But by faith we’re justified.
All our sin and guilt was carried
To the cross when Jesus died.
Circumcision has no value,
Nor the keeping of the law:
If you fail to keep one mandate
Then you’ve failed to keep them all.
But the law was just a guardian,
We’ve no reason for dismay:
Jesus Christ is our redeemer
And has saved us by his grace.
Knowing that we’ve been entrusted
With the pow’r of God to save
We must preach no other gospel
Then the one God’s Word conveys
We must not desert our calling
Doubting Christ’s all-saving grace!
This new life came by the Spirit
Perseverance from the same.
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Christ, who offered up Himself as
Our deliv’rance he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We’ve escaped this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
Though the devil may conceive of
“Gospels” seeming to be true
Painting Christ as partial savior
Helped along by what we do
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds,
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached.
Let no angel come from heaven
Nor a teacher from the earth
Preach a gospel that would lead us
From the gospel we have heard:
By the law no man is righteous
But by faith we’re justified.
All our sin and guilt was carried
To the cross when Jesus died.
Circumcision has no value,
Nor the keeping of the law:
If you fail to keep one mandate
Then you’ve failed to keep them all.
But the law was just a guardian,
We’ve no reason for dismay:
Jesus Christ is our redeemer
And has saved us by his grace.
Knowing that we’ve been entrusted
With the pow’r of God to save
We must preach no other gospel
Then the one God’s Word conveys
We must not desert our calling
Doubting Christ’s all-saving grace!
This new life came by the Spirit
Perseverance from the same.
READING CHANGE
Hey you all,
Go ahead and read chapter 12 from Mark Dever's Book The Deliberate Church entitled "Music." This will replace Joe Nesom's, “Singing in the Holy Spirit” which isn't showing up. A great chapter. Great day today! I enjoyed it! You're doing wonderful work!
http://books.google.com/books?id=u9vcRHh8PR0C&pg=PA117&lpg=PA117&dq=The+Deliberate+Church+On+line&source=bl&ots=OIV5K9_z5R&sig=olYFK3P7rcHMvR9AeQumTMXIrD0&hl=en#PPA115,M1
Go ahead and read chapter 12 from Mark Dever's Book The Deliberate Church entitled "Music." This will replace Joe Nesom's, “Singing in the Holy Spirit” which isn't showing up. A great chapter. Great day today! I enjoyed it! You're doing wonderful work!
http://books.google.com/books?id=u9vcRHh8PR0C&pg=PA117&lpg=PA117&dq=The+Deliberate+Church+On+line&source=bl&ots=OIV5K9_z5R&sig=olYFK3P7rcHMvR9AeQumTMXIrD0&hl=en#PPA115,M1
The Spirit comes to bear witness to Christ
I thought that it was interesting what Sally Morgenthalerpointed out concerning charismatic worship, to paraphrase, The Spirit comes to bear witness to Christ, but only a handful of the songs regularly used in charismatic worship focuses on the work of Christ. "Ultimately our intimacy with God is not achieved by navigating through five levels of phases, but by the Son of God himself, through whose blood "we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place" and by whose priestly act- his death- we are able to "draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinked to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water." "
Monday, May 18, 2009
Bad Trades
It seems that in our efforts to improve we have made some unfortunate trades.
To be personal we became subjective.
To be relevant we became a trend.
To be concise we became abridged.
To be understandable we became simplified.
And to usher in the new we have traded the old for the untested.
I think our music is the most obvious symptom of our ailments.
To be personal we became subjective.
To be relevant we became a trend.
To be concise we became abridged.
To be understandable we became simplified.
And to usher in the new we have traded the old for the untested.
I think our music is the most obvious symptom of our ailments.
Weekly worship
As I was reading Harold Best's response to Don Williams, one of his questions got me thinking. He asked, "How do charismatics act during the week." One thing that I have noticed about the mindset of many church, and not just charismatic, is that Sunday is viewed as a time of refueling. We come together for services, get pumped up, and then go back to our normal routine. I have not come to a conclusion as of yet, but I am not sure if our weekend worship should be all that different from our weekly worship, accept that what we are doing on the weekend is for the teaching, admonishing, and edifying of the body. Maybe the rest of you can give me some insight on this.
a memoir...
I begin this entry by acknowledging the fact that I have not thoroughly researched this. A few days ago, I took notice of a trend in our Survey of Christian Hymnody, that I've noticed in passing in other classes. Historically, the protestant church must at least tip their collective hats to reformers such as Calvin and Luther. When I read about both of their desires and abilities to write music for the church, my suspicion grew. In today's article, “congregation singing and the ministry of the word” by Leonard R. Paton, I found that someone else agreed with me. The great leaders (for the most part) of the church, who have altered and grown the church doctrines to be closer to the word of God, have been Musicians. And not just musicians, but theologians, pastors, and philosophers. I am reminded by this one of the reasons I originally decided to be a music major at Baptist Bible College. I was not content with my personal discipline, or the logical structure of my theology. I've also had a personal interest in philosophy since I was a child. BBC is a specifically ministry oriented school, requiring all of their four or five year majors to major in Bible. The setting of BBC is likely one of the only places where I could receive training in music, discipline, theology and philosophy concurrently. It has always been my goal, as a human being, and as a Christian, to aid in the growth of the local and universal church, and I have always feared being a detriment to it, and a mutagenic agent, warping the church of God.
I strongly suspect that this was also the overarching goal of songwriters such as Watts and Luther, and Keith Getty.
The church must remember where it came from, and realize how God has worked in it, from beginning to end, in order to guide the future.
I strongly suspect that this was also the overarching goal of songwriters such as Watts and Luther, and Keith Getty.
The church must remember where it came from, and realize how God has worked in it, from beginning to end, in order to guide the future.
Reynolds, Price, and Music pp. 73-76
Hey you all,
There may be a few questions on your quiz from pages 73-76. HINT:
There's a name that rhymes with "achiever" and a country associated with "millionaires" and and a "canine" that you might want to discover.
There may be a few questions on your quiz from pages 73-76. HINT:
There's a name that rhymes with "achiever" and a country associated with "millionaires" and and a "canine" that you might want to discover.
Levitical Age Limit
It seems to me that Leonard Payton touched an important part of church music in his article "Singing and the Ministry of the Word" when he spoke briefly about the age requirement of the Levitical priests. He writes, "A Levitical musician reached maturity at age thirty, not age twenty as in the case of the unspecialized Levite (1 Chron. 23:3, 5, 24). One wonders what the state of church music today would be were musical leadership withheld until age thirty."
Much of the move towards contemporary church music in mainline demoninational churches seems to have been in an effort to 1) Keep younger members interested in church or 2) Give younger members an opportunity to express their faith in ways that are culturally relevant for them. While the these motivations may not necessarily be bad, the true danger is allowing Christians who are not yet biblically educated or mature to control the times of corporate singing. Certainly the church ought to be concerned with keeping the next generation involved in the church, but not at the expense of biblical teaching. And the certainly the church ought to give its younger members opportunites to develop their gifts, but again, not at the expense of immature or heretical teaching. Payton writes, "If we are serious about sola scriptura, perhaps we should view an age restriction of thirty as a very prudent guideline, especially as our American culture is increasing in its infantility." Though perhaps not that high, I believe he is right in his sentiment.
Freeing the Spirit
In reading Joe Horness' portion of the chapter, I noticed that he repeatedly talked about how when we worship correctly, we are "setting the Spirit free" to work within us and change us. I was wondering if anyone knew what he meant by this--it kind of confused me. It seemed like he was very consumed with what we bring to worship. It was all about what we can offer to God while we're participating. Maybe this is sort of what he's referring to in saying that the Spirit is freed by our worship?
Galations 1, Second Stanza (revised)
Though the devil may conceive of
"Gospels" seeming to be true
Painting Christ as partial savior
Helped along by what we do
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached
"Gospels" seeming to be true
Painting Christ as partial savior
Helped along by what we do
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached
another verse (please revise!)
Behold the one who knew you first
before the world began
who man betrayed, who man now seeks, *the ones who are drawn, of course...
and in Christ was pleased to dwell.
Who offered self as sacrifice and satisfied all needs *of the father's need of judgment for sin
who has been proclaimed, who has been declared
in creation under heav'n
c.m.d
before the world began
who man betrayed, who man now seeks, *the ones who are drawn, of course...
and in Christ was pleased to dwell.
Who offered self as sacrifice and satisfied all needs *of the father's need of judgment for sin
who has been proclaimed, who has been declared
in creation under heav'n
c.m.d
Verse for Lamentations
Affliction, constant sorrow brings
As arrows cutting deep
Bereft of peace, and without joy
My soul is void of hope
Based off of verses 1-18
As arrows cutting deep
Bereft of peace, and without joy
My soul is void of hope
Based off of verses 1-18
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Psalm 1:1-2: stanza 1 [revised]
Bless'd is the man who does not walk
In wicked ones' advice
Nor does he stand in sinner's way
Nor sits in scoffer's seat
And he does not delight in sin
But in God's righteous law
Where day and night it is his joy
To meditate always
C.M.D.
In wicked ones' advice
Nor does he stand in sinner's way
Nor sits in scoffer's seat
And he does not delight in sin
But in God's righteous law
Where day and night it is his joy
To meditate always
C.M.D.
Doing Hymnody "Gracefully"
Check out the meditation by Christopher Heard on John Newton's "Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken." We sang it this morning and well it was ugh -- really rather glorious.
http://gbchurch.us/doc/wf/2009/051709wf.pdf
http://gbchurch.us/doc/wf/2009/051709wf.pdf
Lessons from the life of Samson
Sometimes I get really discouraged. Reading and hearing and talking about people who do not understand the importance of historical, truth-based worship is discouraging. The Bible does not mandate particular philosophies or methodologies, but I really believe that historical, truth-based worship holds more closely to the teachings of Scripture (and common sense) than any other kind.
But the story of Samson is encouraging because it tells of a very errent man with whom God accomplished his purposes. God desired to deliver Israel from their captors and he chose Samson to do that. Throughout his life Samson contiunually disobeyed God's commands. God used Samson's unrighteous anger to overcome Israel's captors and he even used Samon's unrighteous motivations to gain final victory over them. In the end, God was sovereign. His purposes were accomplished and Samson got what he deserved.
I think this can apply to what we're learning in Hymnology. I am not by any means suggesting that we just sit back and let by-gones be by-gones. I believe we need to confront and teach in love. But at the end of the day, when we've done all we can do, we must rest in God's sovereignty knowing that his will is going to be done. His gospel will be spread as he sees fit and people will be sanctified as he sees fit. Nothing we do can make that happen any better.
But the story of Samson is encouraging because it tells of a very errent man with whom God accomplished his purposes. God desired to deliver Israel from their captors and he chose Samson to do that. Throughout his life Samson contiunually disobeyed God's commands. God used Samson's unrighteous anger to overcome Israel's captors and he even used Samon's unrighteous motivations to gain final victory over them. In the end, God was sovereign. His purposes were accomplished and Samson got what he deserved.
I think this can apply to what we're learning in Hymnology. I am not by any means suggesting that we just sit back and let by-gones be by-gones. I believe we need to confront and teach in love. But at the end of the day, when we've done all we can do, we must rest in God's sovereignty knowing that his will is going to be done. His gospel will be spread as he sees fit and people will be sanctified as he sees fit. Nothing we do can make that happen any better.
1 Timothy 6:11-16 Stanzas 1-3
The'e-ternal life to which we're called
In order to possess
In sight of God and witnesses
Our faith we have confessed
Jesus the Christ, the Son of God
We'll wait til He appears
For God will bring in His own time
This promise we hold near (or dear?)
Until that day with joy pursue
Faith righteousness and love
Forever might and honor be
To Him who sits above
Notes: although acurately reflecting the portion of Scripture that I've chosen, I recognize that these stanzas reveal little about the condition of man or the work of Christ. Does this hymn makes sense without any further explanation or do I need more stanzas (my husband said he would sing it)? No! I'm not going to do C.M.D. :)
Concerning the second stanza
"Jesus the Christ the Son of God" this is what we have confessed. The text mentions Jesus' "good confession" before Pontius Pilate. I wondered what this meant and found in the gospels that Jesus confessed before Pilate that He was 1) the Christ and King of the Jews, and 2) The Son of God
near/dear, I think "hold dear" sounds better, but it has more of a warm fuzzy connotation, whereas "hold near" seems to me something that we're actually looking for and holding on to. What do you think?
In order to possess
In sight of God and witnesses
Our faith we have confessed
Jesus the Christ, the Son of God
We'll wait til He appears
For God will bring in His own time
This promise we hold near (or dear?)
Until that day with joy pursue
Faith righteousness and love
Forever might and honor be
To Him who sits above
Notes: although acurately reflecting the portion of Scripture that I've chosen, I recognize that these stanzas reveal little about the condition of man or the work of Christ. Does this hymn makes sense without any further explanation or do I need more stanzas (my husband said he would sing it)? No! I'm not going to do C.M.D. :)
Concerning the second stanza
"Jesus the Christ the Son of God" this is what we have confessed. The text mentions Jesus' "good confession" before Pontius Pilate. I wondered what this meant and found in the gospels that Jesus confessed before Pilate that He was 1) the Christ and King of the Jews, and 2) The Son of God
near/dear, I think "hold dear" sounds better, but it has more of a warm fuzzy connotation, whereas "hold near" seems to me something that we're actually looking for and holding on to. What do you think?
first and second stanza of psalm 62
For God, my rock, my salvation
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
All of you will be slain
Like a leaning wall you will fall
A fence you will not stand
They devise to cast him down
They find delight in lies
From their mouth flow many blessings
But inward plot demise
For God alone I will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my rock
Defense against the foe
My salvation and my glory
My strength and surety
Found in God the refuge for all
No man can shaken me
In him put your trust, O people
For Him pour out your heart
God is a refuge safe for us
My soul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He
How long will you attack a man
All of you will be slain
Like a leaning wall you will fall
A fence you will not stand
They devise to cast him down
They find delight in lies
From their mouth flow many blessings
But inward plot demise
For God alone I will wait
From Him I find my hope
He, my salvation and my rock
Defense against the foe
My salvation and my glory
My strength and surety
Found in God the refuge for all
No man can shaken me
In him put your trust, O people
For Him pour out your heart
God is a refuge safe for us
New Gadsby Reading Address
Hey you all,
If the address I gave you for William Gadsby's "Why did Christ Die?" didn't show up, try this one. Blessings!
http://grace-gospel.org/why_did_xt_die.htm
Galatians 1, First and Second Stanzas
Grace and peace from God the Father
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Who himself gave for our sins so
That our rescue he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We’ve escaped this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds,
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached.
By the law no man is righteous
But by faith we’re justified.
All our sin and guilt was carried
To the cross when Jesus died.
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Who himself gave for our sins so
That our rescue he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We’ve escaped this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
Let us not confuse our standing
Owing merit to our deeds,
For to do so is distortion
Of the gospel Jesus preached.
By the law no man is righteous
But by faith we’re justified.
All our sin and guilt was carried
To the cross when Jesus died.
False Doctrine By Omission
Reflecting on Don Williams' article and still reeling from Joe Horness, I've simulated a lot of conversations with guys like these about church music. They typically follow the same pattern that simulated or actual conversations with "youth pastorey" types use. When asked to point out exactly where they err, it is difficult to build a hard case.
But the danger in what they say is not actually in what they say. It is false doctrine by omission. This is bound to happen whenever one ignores church history or biblical context. This is why we need the whole canon of Scripture. This is why we need the early creeds. This is why we need the confessions and catechisms. This is why we need a systematic theology. And this is why we need songs that span the greater portion of the church's life and development. We must seek to define and understand Christianity, God, worship, depravity, (everything!) in the is the same way our predecessors did - or least have explicit biblical warrant for doing otherwise - lest we invent a new system of beliefs (aka religion) and supplant historic Christianity. We most hold to what we have received and fight against false doctrine by omission.
But the danger in what they say is not actually in what they say. It is false doctrine by omission. This is bound to happen whenever one ignores church history or biblical context. This is why we need the whole canon of Scripture. This is why we need the early creeds. This is why we need the confessions and catechisms. This is why we need a systematic theology. And this is why we need songs that span the greater portion of the church's life and development. We must seek to define and understand Christianity, God, worship, depravity, (everything!) in the is the same way our predecessors did - or least have explicit biblical warrant for doing otherwise - lest we invent a new system of beliefs (aka religion) and supplant historic Christianity. We most hold to what we have received and fight against false doctrine by omission.
First and Second Stanza, 1 Peter 1:3-4
Bless'd be the God and Father of
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has born us to new life
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
We orphans poor that God did choose
Were destitute in sin
But God in Christ broke sin's chain loose
And made us rich in Him
Not with earth's treasures that will fade
In rusted, man-made tombs
But with unceasing glory, bright
Reserved in heav'n for you
I changed the fourth line of the first stanza like we discussed in class. I'm not yet sure how I feel about the second stanza.
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has born us to new life
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
We orphans poor that God did choose
Were destitute in sin
But God in Christ broke sin's chain loose
And made us rich in Him
Not with earth's treasures that will fade
In rusted, man-made tombs
But with unceasing glory, bright
Reserved in heav'n for you
I changed the fourth line of the first stanza like we discussed in class. I'm not yet sure how I feel about the second stanza.
Faith Comes Through...
I was somewhat disturbed by one of the things that I read in Don Williams' essay on Charismatic worship. He was talking again about this notion that congregational worship ought to be witness. To illustrate this he used a quote from Charismatic worship leader Tim Hughes, telling the story of a group of young people that "gave their lives to Christ". Hughes writes, "When asked what it was that provoked them they responded that it was the worship. 'We never thought Christians could worship like that.' As they joined with others in worship they were moved, but more importantly the eyes of their hearts were opened to Jesus as their Savior."
This sounds really strange to me. It seems that throughout the New Testament the emphasis is placed on the hearing and receiving the preaching of gospel truth as the means by which a person is saved. "For faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ" (Rom 10:17). Now it is possible that songs could contain text which declares the truth of the gospel. If that is true, then I suppose it's also possible that someone could be saved by hearing the declaration of that truth in the song. But Hughes doesn't say that. He indicates that it was the act of worship itself which gave them a saving knowledge of Christ. It seems like a bit a stretch to say that their faith came not from hearing the Word of Christ, but from observing the worship of God. I'm not saying that that won't ever be the means by which the Holy Spirit draws someone closer to saving faith in Christ, but I don't see biblically how it could ever be the means by which someone comes to saving faith in Christ.
This sounds really strange to me. It seems that throughout the New Testament the emphasis is placed on the hearing and receiving the preaching of gospel truth as the means by which a person is saved. "For faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the Word of Christ" (Rom 10:17). Now it is possible that songs could contain text which declares the truth of the gospel. If that is true, then I suppose it's also possible that someone could be saved by hearing the declaration of that truth in the song. But Hughes doesn't say that. He indicates that it was the act of worship itself which gave them a saving knowledge of Christ. It seems like a bit a stretch to say that their faith came not from hearing the Word of Christ, but from observing the worship of God. I'm not saying that that won't ever be the means by which the Holy Spirit draws someone closer to saving faith in Christ, but I don't see biblically how it could ever be the means by which someone comes to saving faith in Christ.
Friday, May 15, 2009
The Agonie by George Herbert
Here is the Herbert poem we read in class this morning.
http://www.luminarium.org/sevenlit/herbert/agonie.htm
http://www.luminarium.org/sevenlit/herbert/agonie.htm
The Psalms of David by Isaac Watts
The Psalms of David: imitated in the language of the New Testament and applied to the Christian state and worship
By Isaac Watts
Published by Frederick Westley and A. H. Davis, 1834
Original from Harvard University
Digitized Jan 10, 2008
158 pages
http://books.google.com/books?id=HdgTAAAAYAAJ&printsec=titlepage&source=gbs_summary_r&cad=0
By Isaac Watts
Published by Frederick Westley and A. H. Davis, 1834
Original from Harvard University
Digitized Jan 10, 2008
158 pages
http://books.google.com/books?id=HdgTAAAAYAAJ&printsec=titlepage&source=gbs_summary_r&cad=0
So the real driving force behind the charisamatic movement is to give those that are "distant ideologically and culturally from the traditional church" a "deeper experience than the sensuality of pounding lust and chemical highs"? Is this just a different kind of high? A spiritual high?
He seems to put so much emphasis on the Spirit, but Colossians tells us "whatever you do, whether in word of deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
He seems to put so much emphasis on the Spirit, but Colossians tells us "whatever you do, whether in word of deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him."
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Hymn Testing for Tomorrow
Hey you all,
Good times today! Tomorrow you'll only be resposible for the 10 hymns listed in the syllabus. The tesing will take too long if I add 14 more hymns to the already 10 you are responsible for. See you in the morning!
Good times today! Tomorrow you'll only be resposible for the 10 hymns listed in the syllabus. The tesing will take too long if I add 14 more hymns to the already 10 you are responsible for. See you in the morning!
Thinking Outside Ourselves
"I think this is the way most of our life should be. Periodic self-examination is needed and wise and Biblical. But for the most part mental health is the use of the mind ot focus on worthy reality outside ourselves." --John Piper
I think this quote from the article on William Cowper is such a good reminder. Piper said that when researching in order to write this biography, he became so enthralled and consumed with the life of another, he basically forgot about himself. This abandonment of self is something that we all need a large dose of. To forget about ourselves and become emersed in a "worthy reality outside ourselves" would greatly affect our worship. We all too often get easily consumed with our own self-consciousness and feelings and emotions that we lose what our true intentions should be. To become focused on Christ and the Gospel, though most often pushed aside or even forgotten, is that worthy reality and our worship.
I think this quote from the article on William Cowper is such a good reminder. Piper said that when researching in order to write this biography, he became so enthralled and consumed with the life of another, he basically forgot about himself. This abandonment of self is something that we all need a large dose of. To forget about ourselves and become emersed in a "worthy reality outside ourselves" would greatly affect our worship. We all too often get easily consumed with our own self-consciousness and feelings and emotions that we lose what our true intentions should be. To become focused on Christ and the Gospel, though most often pushed aside or even forgotten, is that worthy reality and our worship.
"Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone,"...
...he told me, "just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had. - F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
As I think about the internship I’ll be doing this summer at my home church, I’m often concerned that my view of church music will clash with the existing views. It makes me wonder, how do we hymnologists help the uninformed church see the beauty of hymns and historic Christian singing?
It seems the first step is to point to the demands of the venue. Church music must be easy to sing, as its primary “performers” (I use that term simply because one who takes an existing piece of music and reproduces it either instrumentally or vocal is known as the performer) will be accountants, doctors, mechanics, gym teachers, mothers, operations analysts, and many other utterly unmusical things. Thus it must be simple in form, clear in content, and easy to sing. Many hymns, early “contemporary” songs (how ironically oxymoronic), and modern hymns certainly fit this criteria.
The second would seem to be theological accuracy. This is considerably more daunting. Most church goers probably accept the lyrics of their songs unquestioningly – and why would they not? How do we help people see that pet horse and girlfriend songs are not healthy?
As I think about the internship I’ll be doing this summer at my home church, I’m often concerned that my view of church music will clash with the existing views. It makes me wonder, how do we hymnologists help the uninformed church see the beauty of hymns and historic Christian singing?
It seems the first step is to point to the demands of the venue. Church music must be easy to sing, as its primary “performers” (I use that term simply because one who takes an existing piece of music and reproduces it either instrumentally or vocal is known as the performer) will be accountants, doctors, mechanics, gym teachers, mothers, operations analysts, and many other utterly unmusical things. Thus it must be simple in form, clear in content, and easy to sing. Many hymns, early “contemporary” songs (how ironically oxymoronic), and modern hymns certainly fit this criteria.
The second would seem to be theological accuracy. This is considerably more daunting. Most church goers probably accept the lyrics of their songs unquestioningly – and why would they not? How do we help people see that pet horse and girlfriend songs are not healthy?
It seems like the best remedy for this dilemma is Scripture. It's a shame, I don’t remember ever hearing Colossians 3:16 before my time at BBC. I don’t think our churches (perhaps I should say “my church back home”) realize that they’re singing to each other! At least half of the authors in the book don’t know it. Perhaps this is the best way to open the door to conversation and analysis without, as our dear Brother McGrew says, “clubbing the baby seal to death”.
Historical Hymns and their Historical Contexts [part II]
I like Isaac Watts. He was a thinker and seemed to be a radical one too. He argued for songs of "human composure," for the "Christianizing" and "naturalizing" of the Psalms, and for the planning of services centered around the sermon not the church calendar. It was on his work that modern hymnody has its foundation. He's called the "Father of English Hymnody."
There's something profound about following the influence that a person has over history, especially the ingenious ones. The beliefs that Isaac Watts had and the simple decisions he made because of them have influenced millions of people (whether they know it or not) and millions of churches. Think about a car, for instance. The car we have today didn't just get invented. It was built upon years of research and learning and trial-and-error. You could even trace it back to the invention of the wheel...or maybe even futher. My point is that seemingly little things that take place now - little beliefs had or decisions made - will echo a hundred times more in the future.
What a responsibility we have! Understanding this is one my greatest motivations for reading books, studying history, understanding the Bible, and conversing with those smarter than me. I think this is just one of the values of studying history and teaching it to our congregations. We need to understand the past in order to move ahead to the future. If we do not understand the past, we have nothing on which to build. We will be doomed to making the same mistakes others did. We will be doomed to "reinvent the wheel."
There's something profound about following the influence that a person has over history, especially the ingenious ones. The beliefs that Isaac Watts had and the simple decisions he made because of them have influenced millions of people (whether they know it or not) and millions of churches. Think about a car, for instance. The car we have today didn't just get invented. It was built upon years of research and learning and trial-and-error. You could even trace it back to the invention of the wheel...or maybe even futher. My point is that seemingly little things that take place now - little beliefs had or decisions made - will echo a hundred times more in the future.
What a responsibility we have! Understanding this is one my greatest motivations for reading books, studying history, understanding the Bible, and conversing with those smarter than me. I think this is just one of the values of studying history and teaching it to our congregations. We need to understand the past in order to move ahead to the future. If we do not understand the past, we have nothing on which to build. We will be doomed to making the same mistakes others did. We will be doomed to "reinvent the wheel."
Webber and Cowper
There is a connection, I believe, between what we've read in "Exploring the Worship Spectrum" and "Insanity and Spiritual Songs in the Soul of a Saint". In his deeply theological and helpful response to contemporary worship, Robert Webber points out what he believes to be one of the fatal flaws in contemporary forms of worship. He writes, "It is too much about what I ought to do and too little about what God has done for me. God has done for me what I cannot do for myself. He did it in Jesus Christ. Therefore my worship is offered in a broken vessel that is in the process of being healed, but is not yet capable of fullness of joy, endless intense passion, absolute exaltation, and celebration". He further comments on the lack of the gospel in contemporary worship, "But why contemporary worship leaders never tell us this good news baffles me. It leaves me with the sense that I am asked to do the impossible. And when leaders lead us to believe they accomplish this kind of love, passion, and praise, then the rest of us either have to fake it or worry that maybe we are not spiritual enough". Webber rightly judges that much contemporary worship urges us to conjure up a spiritual perfection and zeal we simply do not have.
This is exactly the kind of law-based Christianity that would have deepened Cowper's depression. What brought him to faith in Christ was an understanding of the sufficiency of Christ's atoning work and an owning of gospel truth. He was overwhelmed at the truth that Christ had provided all the means of salvation. Much of the contemporary Christian form of worship (music?) often pushes us to claim subjective truths about ourselves (ie, "I will love you Lord, will all my heart and all my soul and all my strength") which may not always be true. And then when we realize that we don't meet the claims of the songs, Webber is right to point out that we begin fear that we are not spiritual enough. This kind of self-ascribed, yet lacking, devotion can only lead to guilt and doubt. This is the last thing that William Cowper or anyone should hear from the Christian church.
This is exactly the kind of law-based Christianity that would have deepened Cowper's depression. What brought him to faith in Christ was an understanding of the sufficiency of Christ's atoning work and an owning of gospel truth. He was overwhelmed at the truth that Christ had provided all the means of salvation. Much of the contemporary Christian form of worship (music?) often pushes us to claim subjective truths about ourselves (ie, "I will love you Lord, will all my heart and all my soul and all my strength") which may not always be true. And then when we realize that we don't meet the claims of the songs, Webber is right to point out that we begin fear that we are not spiritual enough. This kind of self-ascribed, yet lacking, devotion can only lead to guilt and doubt. This is the last thing that William Cowper or anyone should hear from the Christian church.
Concerning William Cowper
Several things struck me about the lecture concerning William Cowper. First of all, it was Cowper's horror of his own sin that convicted him of his reprobabte state. Secondly, it was the words of Scripture that brought him to a knowledge of the truth- who God is and what Christ has done. And thirdly, it wasn't in his own strength that he accepted this truth, but he "received the strength to believe it."
question about the test tomorrow
So for the test tomorrow, we're getting quizzed on the ten hymns that were assigned for tonight's studying, plus all of our favorites, right? Is it possible to get a list, Doc, of what all the favorites were, or are we to study all 50 of them?
Hannah's friends give their two cents worth
For God, my rock, my safe defense,
Mysoul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He.
How long will all of you attack
A man to batter him
How long will you assail a man
That you may murder Him
The Lord brings "salvation" (would like to use a different word here)How long will you pursueYour lies and curses failA frail wall, you can be sure to failI wait for "salvation" (once again, would like to use a different w
Mysoul waits silently
I shant be swayed, though strength gives way
Salvation comes from He.
How long will all of you attack
A man to batter him
How long will you assail a man
That you may murder Him
The Lord brings "salvation" (would like to use a different word here)How long will you pursueYour lies and curses failA frail wall, you can be sure to failI wait for "salvation" (once again, would like to use a different w
posting songs
This is my concept for the third stanza or so...
Behold the firstborn from the dead,
the great creator, King
Who by his hands, we now abide
and by His hands exist
And you were once His enemies
and did your evil deeds
He reconciled you by his grace
and paid for you in full.
CMD
Behold the firstborn from the dead,
the great creator, King
Who by his hands, we now abide
and by His hands exist
And you were once His enemies
and did your evil deeds
He reconciled you by his grace
and paid for you in full.
CMD
Assumptions leave out the Gospel
This is just a pet peave of mine, but I think that it has a lot of implications on the church and our music. Zach and I were talking two nights ago and we were discussing why the gospel is left out by so many preachers (and music writers). Our conclusion came to two assumptions. One, we think that many times, pastors and others in authority assume that everyone knows the gospel and its implications, then jump to what we as Christians need to do. The second is that they assume that the Gospel is only needed for salvation, and not for sanctification. If we loose the Gospel as sanctifying, then we loose the power that leads us to do the things commanded of us in the Bible.
Psalm 1:1-2: stanza 1
Blessed is the man who does not walk
With those who stand in sin;
But his delight is in God's law
On which he dwells always.
C.M.
With those who stand in sin;
But his delight is in God's law
On which he dwells always.
C.M.
Hymn/Psalm Website
My Grandfather sent me a link to a website that I found very helpful. Church Works Media, as it is titled, is a resource where a number of worship leader's have come to together and written hymns and settings of psalms. Paul S. Jones is one of the contributors. Their philosophy is interesting as well. It says that worship music should be intentionally Scriptural, God-glorifying, Christ-centered, congregational (I don't think that refers to the denomination), fervent, and distinct. Here is the link.
http://www.churchworksmedia.com/
http://www.churchworksmedia.com/
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Stanza from Psalm 62
My soul waits silently
For my rock, my safe defense
I shant be swayed, though my strength gives way
The Lord brings "salvation" (would like to use a different word here)
How long will you pursue
Your lies and curses fail
A frail wall, you can be sure to fail
I wait for "salvation" (once again, would like to use a different word)
For my rock, my safe defense
I shant be swayed, though my strength gives way
The Lord brings "salvation" (would like to use a different word here)
How long will you pursue
Your lies and curses fail
A frail wall, you can be sure to fail
I wait for "salvation" (once again, would like to use a different word)
Refrain from Lamentations 3:55-57
I have called on Your name, O Lord
Out of the deepest pit
You heard my cry with listening ear
And said to me "Fear not"
The last line could be this:
And told me "Do not fear"
I would appreciate input if you have any.
Out of the deepest pit
You heard my cry with listening ear
And said to me "Fear not"
The last line could be this:
And told me "Do not fear"
I would appreciate input if you have any.
We Were Not Created To Worship?!?
This phrase caught me off guard as I was reading Harold Best's brilliantly crafted section on worship. I have always heard that "You and I were made to worship" and that God needs our worship. Honestly never having thought about this in depth, my mind has been churning with thoughts about this all day. If we are created to worship, it would follow that the creation was intended to fill in a gap that was missing. It was the phrase immediately following that has really had me thinking; "this suggests that God is a being who needs that kind of attention." God is perfect, and deficient in nothing, therefore there was no gap that needed to be filled by our worship. I love the way that Best describes the human soul, "We were created worshiping - already at worship." At the fall, "we exchanged gods" and "worshiped the creature rather than the creator." This is another implication of the necessity of discretion when putting songs before your congregation. We must think through the implications of what we and the songs we choose are saying, and make sure that they line up with scripture.
Forgot to check the Scripture
This generation desires to "experience to genuine prescence of God" (104). How can this generation experience the prescence of God if they don't know the truth about the God they desire to experience? Last I checked congregational singing was to "teach and admonish" fellow believers, not to have a "personal experience" in a congregational setting. Joe was right in that God wants right attitudes, but He doesn't want right attitudes at the expense of right actions; He commands them both. Is that too much to ask?
First Stanza: 1 Timothy 6
The'e ternal life to which we're called
In order to possess
In sight of God and witnessess
Our faith we have confessed
C.M.
Taken mostly from verse 12
In order to possess
In sight of God and witnessess
Our faith we have confessed
C.M.
Taken mostly from verse 12
First Stanza, 1 Peter 1
Bless'd be the God and Father of
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has made us born again
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
It's C.M.D., essentially taken from verse 3
Our Savior Jesus Christ
Who with abundant, sovereign love
Has made us born again
Not to the fate of Adam's race
But to a living hope:
Christ raised to life, securing grace
For those the Father chose
It's C.M.D., essentially taken from verse 3
Another swipe at poor Joe
My post is sort of related to Seth's in that it also takes issue with Joe Horness' views of worship. I guess one of the parts of Horness' essay that most concerns me is the way in which it reaks of human effort. He talks often of creating a "worship environment" in which both the churched and unchurched can relate to, and experience God. He spends one entire paragraph (which I can assure you is a long time for Joe's whimsical, easily-dristracted writing style) explaining all the things necessary in order for people to fully engaged in worship. During this paragraph Horness even breaks into a sudden, frantic plea for keeping announcements out of the worship service in order to keep people's hearts engaged in the worship time.
Of course, I'm not arguing for lack of preperation in church services. But if your theology dictates (As Joe's does) that man seeks God, rather than the reverse, the result will be a tremendous burden. For the task of unveiling the heart to see and savor Christ becomes the labor of the worship leader, rather than the gracious act of the Holy Spirit.
Of course, I'm not arguing for lack of preperation in church services. But if your theology dictates (As Joe's does) that man seeks God, rather than the reverse, the result will be a tremendous burden. For the task of unveiling the heart to see and savor Christ becomes the labor of the worship leader, rather than the gracious act of the Holy Spirit.
Galatians 1, first stanza
Grace and peace from God the Father
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Who himself gave for our sins so
That our rescue he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We’ve escaped this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
It's 8.7.8.7 D and it's mostly from verses 3 and 4
Comes by Jesus Christ our Lord,
Who himself gave for our sins so
That our rescue he secured.
By the will of God the Father
We’ve escaped this evil age,
Only through the Savior’s mercy:
Christ forever we shall praise.
It's 8.7.8.7 D and it's mostly from verses 3 and 4
Danger and Definitions
Reading our good friend Joe Horness’ chapter today I realized what a difficult quandary we are in. Mr. Horness has defined God, the church, and worship in a way that tremendously increases the validity of his view. I don’t know where to begin in responding to it (although a trust Harold Best has done an excellent job just a few pages later).
Aside from being an apparently rabid Arminian/Semi-Pelagian hybrid (p 99), he has a strange sort of consustantiational, theophanical, warm and fuzzy definition of worship. The best definition I could find was
“It is a two-way communication between God and his people. We exalt God. He reveals his presence and changes our hearts. We pour out our hearts and remember his greatness. Refusing to be outdone, he meets our needs for intimacy and grace.”
I’m not sure where he gets some of this. Two-way communication? It seems that God speaks to us through his Word, so I guess if we’re singing the Word then this makes sense. He reveals his presence? Umm…. I’m not sure where to start on this. A proof text or passage would be helpful. We pour out our hearts? Let’s assume that it’s casting our cares upon him. Refusing to be outdone? Uhh, anthropomorphism? Maybe? He meets our needs for intimacy? Ok, I suppose this could happen through the Word contained in the songs. Need for grace? Now wait a minute, our chief need for grace is um SIN. That is NOT met when we sing, that was met on the cross. Could it be the sort of sacramental nourishing grace? Maybe, maybe not. I don’t know what he means, and I think he wants it that way. By being unclear or ambiguous he can avoid a lot of trouble.
But what is worship? The first time the English word ‘worship’ (which is itself a mixture of worth-ship) occurs in the ESV is Genesis 22:5.
“Then Abraham said to his young men, ‘Stay here with the donkey; I and the boy will go over there and worship and come again to you.’”
This is the passage where Abraham was ready to sacrifice Isaac. The next is in Genesis 24:26-27
“The man bowed his head and worshiped the Lord and said, ‘Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken his steadfast love and his faithfulness toward my master. As for me, the Lord has led me in the way to the house of my master's kinsmen.’”
I don’t see any two way interaction going on. It seems as though worship is God’s people responding to God as He has prescribed and celebrating Him for who He has revealed Himself to be.
The word also occurs in Exodus 4:30-31
“30 Aaron spoke all the words that the Lord had spoken to Moses and did the signs in the sight of the people. 31 And the people believed; and when they heard that the Lord had visited the people of Israel and that he had seen their affliction, they bowed their heads and worshiped.”
It seems as though here God’s people are thanking Him for His faithfulness and His love. They are not proclaiming their own love for him. They are not receiving further revelation from him during worship. Oh yeah, and they’re probably not singing. I don’t think I’m buying his definition.
Also, check this out: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/5216320.stm
Aside from being an apparently rabid Arminian/Semi-Pelagian hybrid (p 99), he has a strange sort of consustantiational, theophanical, warm and fuzzy definition of worship. The best definition I could find was
“It is a two-way communication between God and his people. We exalt God. He reveals his presence and changes our hearts. We pour out our hearts and remember his greatness. Refusing to be outdone, he meets our needs for intimacy and grace.”
I’m not sure where he gets some of this. Two-way communication? It seems that God speaks to us through his Word, so I guess if we’re singing the Word then this makes sense. He reveals his presence? Umm…. I’m not sure where to start on this. A proof text or passage would be helpful. We pour out our hearts? Let’s assume that it’s casting our cares upon him. Refusing to be outdone? Uhh, anthropomorphism? Maybe? He meets our needs for intimacy? Ok, I suppose this could happen through the Word contained in the songs. Need for grace? Now wait a minute, our chief need for grace is um SIN. That is NOT met when we sing, that was met on the cross. Could it be the sort of sacramental nourishing grace? Maybe, maybe not. I don’t know what he means, and I think he wants it that way. By being unclear or ambiguous he can avoid a lot of trouble.
But what is worship? The first time the English word ‘worship’ (which is itself a mixture of worth-ship) occurs in the ESV is Genesis 22:5.
“Then Abraham said to his young men, ‘Stay here with the donkey; I and the boy will go over there and worship and come again to you.’”
This is the passage where Abraham was ready to sacrifice Isaac. The next is in Genesis 24:26-27
“The man bowed his head and worshiped the Lord and said, ‘Blessed be the Lord, the God of my master Abraham, who has not forsaken his steadfast love and his faithfulness toward my master. As for me, the Lord has led me in the way to the house of my master's kinsmen.’”
I don’t see any two way interaction going on. It seems as though worship is God’s people responding to God as He has prescribed and celebrating Him for who He has revealed Himself to be.
The word also occurs in Exodus 4:30-31
“30 Aaron spoke all the words that the Lord had spoken to Moses and did the signs in the sight of the people. 31 And the people believed; and when they heard that the Lord had visited the people of Israel and that he had seen their affliction, they bowed their heads and worshiped.”
It seems as though here God’s people are thanking Him for His faithfulness and His love. They are not proclaiming their own love for him. They are not receiving further revelation from him during worship. Oh yeah, and they’re probably not singing. I don’t think I’m buying his definition.
Also, check this out: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/5216320.stm
"Music, Worship and Martin Luther"
Here is the article I referenced in class this morning entitled "Music, Worship and Martin Luther" by Charles P. St-Onge.
http://stonge.intheway.org/documents/Music%20Worship%20and%20Luther.pdf
http://stonge.intheway.org/documents/Music%20Worship%20and%20Luther.pdf
Day 3's Order of Service
1. Singing
Hymn No. 38 "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise"
Hymn No. 23 "Lovely Child, Holy Child"
Hymn No. 229 "Gentle Mary Laid Her Child"
2. Dicussing
Preface to Gadsby's Hymns [1838]
http://website.lineone.net/~gsward/gadsbyhymns/gadsby/gadsbypreface.htm
"What is a Hymn?" by Margaret Clarkson
http://www.reformedworship.org/magazine/article.cfm?article_id=201
3. Testing
"The Lutheran Chorale"
Christmas Hymns [Mostly]
4. Discussing
"Traditional Hymn Based Worship" and their reponses
5. Reading Together
The Preface and Introducation to The Trinity Hymnal
6. Discussing
"9 ladies dancing, 8 maids-a-milking, 7 bloggers blogging"
7. Reading Together
Important words from your scripture passage that you want to use in stanza one of your hymn text.
8. Discussing
"Raising Ebenezer: Why are we misguided when we modernize hymn texts?" Gary Parrett
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2006/001/23.62.html
“Soothing Ourselves to Death: Should we give people what they want or what they need?” Charles Colson
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2006/004/15.116.html
9. Singing
Hymn No. 227 "On Christmas Night the Angels Sing"
Hymn No. 218 "Angels from the Realms of Glory"
"Go in Peace"
Hymn No. 38 "Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise"
Hymn No. 23 "Lovely Child, Holy Child"
Hymn No. 229 "Gentle Mary Laid Her Child"
2. Dicussing
Preface to Gadsby's Hymns [1838]
http://website.lineone.net/~gsward/gadsbyhymns/gadsby/gadsbypreface.htm
"What is a Hymn?" by Margaret Clarkson
http://www.reformedworship.org/magazine/article.cfm?article_id=201
3. Testing
"The Lutheran Chorale"
Christmas Hymns [Mostly]
4. Discussing
"Traditional Hymn Based Worship" and their reponses
5. Reading Together
The Preface and Introducation to The Trinity Hymnal
6. Discussing
"9 ladies dancing, 8 maids-a-milking, 7 bloggers blogging"
7. Reading Together
Important words from your scripture passage that you want to use in stanza one of your hymn text.
8. Discussing
"Raising Ebenezer: Why are we misguided when we modernize hymn texts?" Gary Parrett
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2006/001/23.62.html
“Soothing Ourselves to Death: Should we give people what they want or what they need?” Charles Colson
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2006/004/15.116.html
9. Singing
Hymn No. 227 "On Christmas Night the Angels Sing"
Hymn No. 218 "Angels from the Realms of Glory"
"Go in Peace"
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Historical Hymns and their Historical Contexts
As I was reading from A Survey of Christian Hymnody, I was fascinated by the contexts in which hymns were written. For example, during the Thirty Years' War, hymns "reflected a changing emphasis from the predominantly objective emphasis of earlier hymns to a more subjective one." These hymns reflected the people's reliance upon God for comfort and consolation with expressions of devotion and self-consciousness. Every period produced different expressions and content that reflected the times of the culture and it seems that all the expressions represent a different quality of the Christian life.
My questions are...what is the value of singing historical texts? and what is the value in teaching the historical contexts?
My questions are...what is the value of singing historical texts? and what is the value in teaching the historical contexts?
The Best of Harold M.
Harold Best's "Traditional Hymn-Based Worship" is a nice piece of work! Here are some questions that might help us get at Best's text:
1. In what two ways are worship preferences generated?
2. Is contemporary worship a tradition?.
3. What is the opposite of the dynamically relevent indigenous culture Best is arguing for?
4. What do you think is the dynamically relevent indigenous culture Best is arguing for?
5. What is the difference between "created to worship" and "created worshipping?"
6. What is the root meaning of liturgy?
7. What does music turn out to be the line in the sand for many church goers?
8. Why is the hymnbook the temporal and artifactual servant of the Word of God?
9. What are the limitations of the contemporary praise and worship song?
10. How can music decrease so that text can increase?
11. What are the advantages 0f a portable, readable, hands on, printed hymnbook?
12. What do you think Best is getting at when he states that "hymns turn out to be a wonderful and massive metaphor for the union of divine revelation and human reponse?"
13. What about organs and praise bands?
1. In what two ways are worship preferences generated?
2. Is contemporary worship a tradition?.
3. What is the opposite of the dynamically relevent indigenous culture Best is arguing for?
4. What do you think is the dynamically relevent indigenous culture Best is arguing for?
5. What is the difference between "created to worship" and "created worshipping?"
6. What is the root meaning of liturgy?
7. What does music turn out to be the line in the sand for many church goers?
8. Why is the hymnbook the temporal and artifactual servant of the Word of God?
9. What are the limitations of the contemporary praise and worship song?
10. How can music decrease so that text can increase?
11. What are the advantages 0f a portable, readable, hands on, printed hymnbook?
12. What do you think Best is getting at when he states that "hymns turn out to be a wonderful and massive metaphor for the union of divine revelation and human reponse?"
13. What about organs and praise bands?
Worshipping in Defiance
In Joe Horness' response to Bests' arguments for traditional Hymn-based worship, he mentions that this style of worship is "sometimes... used almost in defiance of new styles and expressions of worship being written today" and that this "becomes the tradition that binds us to the overly familiar, and that quietly suffocates what is genuine and real in our praise." Admittedly, there are some churches that are guilty of this attitude of defiance, but this is certainly not the type of worship that Best is promoting. The type of Hymn-based worship that Best describes is interactive, intelligent, readily accepts sound new texts, and genuine. There are also some congregations that have embraced only new style and music "in defiance" of the "traditional." Some have gone so far as to rid their sanctuaries of hymns and hymnbooks altogether. This is disconcerting to me personally, because, as someone who has a poor musical memory, but can read music, it will take me the entire song just to learn the melody if there is no text and music right in front of me. Consequently, by the end of the song I've neither interacted with the text, nor have I participated in the singing. I appreciate what Best said about the singability of good hymns- old and new. Funny how such a basic and indespensible factor in congregational singing is so often overlooked.
Mutagenic Message
Throughout the 6 views book, I've been confronted by a group of authors that believe virtually the same things about worship, the bible, and the responsibility of the believer. The responses that I have read say that the act of corporate worship is designed to have an experience with God, bringing forth this little present of the singer's adoration.
We are commanded in Ephesians and Colossians to sing to each other, and to be thankful to God. The bible says nothing about instrumentation. However, my understanding that the first thing (after initially reconciling to God) we are called to do is live a life faithful to God. If this is not being done by the members of the congregation, then what good is any type of musical setting? The authors agree on an emotional love of God, but have they ever stated that Israel might have been saved by properly fearing God? The people did not have faith in God, and because of that, God kept his side of the covenant, punishing Israel according to their failure to uphold, and disposition to not attempt to change their actions.
And if any who hope to lead and guide a congregation of contemporary Christians to celebrating the crucial faith, let them fear God. And let them fear creating a deformed Christianity. If the people up front are not trembling to properly portray the word of God, then they will leave themselves an opening to warp Christianity.
Faith is a terribly defined word in modern Christianity. Many believe that Faith is believing in what you do not, or can not understand. Some quote Hebrews 11, saying that Faith is the evidence of the unseen, and even take it as far as saying faith empowers God to work, and to continue to exist in the lives of people.
I think that Faith is NOT having a product to return to God, but that Faith is believing that God WILL do as he said that he would. In the records of 1st and 2nd kings, each king was noted for whether or not they feared God. The ones who did, prospered. The ones who did not brought Israel and Judah further into Idolatry, and further into despair. And each time, there was a promise that God had made to Israel in the book of Deuteronomy. God kept his promise, and Israel suffered for not keeping their part of the covenant.
I think that people continue to define their character development by what they choose to pursue. And many who attend corporate worship would walk away and continue a life of sin regardless of what happened up front. Our attempts to engage people and make them comfortable is not the end goal. Christ did not die to moralize the unsaved, but to save the immoral.
Concerning "Worship Leaders"
I’m not sure if it was Paul Zahl’s “Rev. Mr. Warmth” idea or Joe Horness’ “truth is only half way” guy, but I’m uncomfortable with the term “worship leader”. It seems to connote two things: the first being that worship is only the time of singing, and the second being that worship is initiated by one man. This latter point is what concerns me most, because it seems to be part of a greater problem.
It seems like singing monophonic, syncopated songs without written music (or without literacy) seems to favor a leader-centric understanding of corporate singing. Using a hymnal or other written music for songs that are simple (dare I say easy) relegates the role of the worship leader to essentially a “song beginning coordinator”. It steers the music session away from a performance by the group or leader and back to a participatory practice.
It seems like singing monophonic, syncopated songs without written music (or without literacy) seems to favor a leader-centric understanding of corporate singing. Using a hymnal or other written music for songs that are simple (dare I say easy) relegates the role of the worship leader to essentially a “song beginning coordinator”. It steers the music session away from a performance by the group or leader and back to a participatory practice.
What Zahl should have said...
In his article presenting and defending formal-liturgical worship, Paul Zahl responds to the oft leveled claim that formal liturgical worship is "cold and dead". Zahl rightfully admits that this is a valid claim, and gives his way for overcoming it. He suggests "a personal warmth", leading with "passionate belief", and giving "right eye contact of recognition as you walk down the aisle".
Yet this reponse does not seem to fit. Zahl's answer to the typical coldness of liturgical service is essentially shiny teeth and nice cologne. His remedy for apparent deadness of faith does not start with the heart, but with actions. In his critique of Zahl, Don Williams is right to point out that this external change is, "...shallow and burdensome" and that it, "...puts us all squarely back under the law".
Zahl should have instead pointed out that all forms of worship are truly dead and cold without a knowledge and faith in Jesus Christ. That is not a problem unique to the formal-liturgical forms of worship. Even the most frenetic Charasmatic worship is cold and dead if it is not based in seeing, loving, and believing what is true about Christ. But if it is based in true knowledge and love of God through Christ, then the rigidly beautiful formal-liturgical style of worship can lead to "joy inexpressible and full of glory".
Yet this reponse does not seem to fit. Zahl's answer to the typical coldness of liturgical service is essentially shiny teeth and nice cologne. His remedy for apparent deadness of faith does not start with the heart, but with actions. In his critique of Zahl, Don Williams is right to point out that this external change is, "...shallow and burdensome" and that it, "...puts us all squarely back under the law".
Zahl should have instead pointed out that all forms of worship are truly dead and cold without a knowledge and faith in Jesus Christ. That is not a problem unique to the formal-liturgical forms of worship. Even the most frenetic Charasmatic worship is cold and dead if it is not based in seeing, loving, and believing what is true about Christ. But if it is based in true knowledge and love of God through Christ, then the rigidly beautiful formal-liturgical style of worship can lead to "joy inexpressible and full of glory".
I just thought the simple thought of explaining lyrics of the old hymns to a congregation before singing the song was such a great idea. Though it seems obvious and basic, I've noticed that it's often overlooked. Like explained in the article by Parrett, the new trendy thing for songwriters to do is to recreate those ancient texts, removing words or phrases that may not be used anymore or difficult to understand, and replacing them with modern, easy to grasp lyrics. This has become so prevelent and I think it relates a lot to what my last post was about. It seems like this is just one more aid to the shift in becoming less and less rooted and grounded in our faith. If these old lyrics were simply explained and taught more often to the congregations, instead of avoided, I just think that it would contribute immensly to achieving a higher quality of understanding of the texts we sing, the worship we offer to God, and the fellowship we share with one another.
My Apologies for being late...
Questions for the Charismatic and Contemporary responders:
Where in the bible are you drawing this two way interaction between man and the Holy Spirit?
Do we have a 'trail of breadcrumbs' from the HS that leads us into a specific flow of plot line, a foreordained script that God implanted in each person? Is our goal in life to sniff out these breadcrumbs?
There are three major areas that seem to be in question: worship, prayer, and daily decisions.
In Response to my own question, I have to ask, what then are we supposed to do? Well, first you have to understand the dynamics of the philosophy of life that you live by. Every person that exists sets rules and definitions that they both define the world and their own choices by. Those who recognize this fact are able to alter their approach to life, based on what objectives and morals should be valued, and which should not. It then becomes the Christ-follower's prerogative to determine that set of values based on the Bible.
This still calls into question the very foundations of what Christian worship is. While you can take this grounding train of thought much farther, a reasonable place to start would be by asking what is the purpose of the Church? What is worship for the individual? What is corporate worship?
Where in the bible are you drawing this two way interaction between man and the Holy Spirit?
Do we have a 'trail of breadcrumbs' from the HS that leads us into a specific flow of plot line, a foreordained script that God implanted in each person? Is our goal in life to sniff out these breadcrumbs?
There are three major areas that seem to be in question: worship, prayer, and daily decisions.
In Response to my own question, I have to ask, what then are we supposed to do? Well, first you have to understand the dynamics of the philosophy of life that you live by. Every person that exists sets rules and definitions that they both define the world and their own choices by. Those who recognize this fact are able to alter their approach to life, based on what objectives and morals should be valued, and which should not. It then becomes the Christ-follower's prerogative to determine that set of values based on the Bible.
This still calls into question the very foundations of what Christian worship is. While you can take this grounding train of thought much farther, a reasonable place to start would be by asking what is the purpose of the Church? What is worship for the individual? What is corporate worship?
Monday, May 11, 2009
What Caused this Change?
I find it so interesting that in many of the different texts addressing the issue of the use of hymns verses the more modern choruses, the old hymns are referred to as doctrine-rich and sacred, filled with Scripture and the Gospel and the vivid descriptions of who God is. The authors behind these hymns were intelligent, fervant individuals, who must have known God in a way none of us can even imagine.
What has happened in our generation and society and in our churches that has made us throw away these sacred texts for completely vague and insignificant ones filled with worthless, empty fluff like our "praise choruses" seem to be, that could be written by anyone, and directed toward anyone or anything? What has changed our view of God and our relation to Him so much that we now are always putting Him into whatever mold we want so that He is who we want when we want Him? I don't understand what exactly has brought this generation to this shift in thinking that is so subjective and individual, and so contrary to the teachings of the Scriptures.
What has happened in our generation and society and in our churches that has made us throw away these sacred texts for completely vague and insignificant ones filled with worthless, empty fluff like our "praise choruses" seem to be, that could be written by anyone, and directed toward anyone or anything? What has changed our view of God and our relation to Him so much that we now are always putting Him into whatever mold we want so that He is who we want when we want Him? I don't understand what exactly has brought this generation to this shift in thinking that is so subjective and individual, and so contrary to the teachings of the Scriptures.
Two Somewhat Related Concerns
I am attempting to write about two problematic occurrences in church music. Both conditions arise from a narcissistic, inward-focused theology of worship, apologetics, and understanding of God himself.
The first looks like this:
“God is love, God does good things. My car battery almost died (or any temporal situation) but then somebody fixed it, and now I know that God loves me.”
There’s nothing wrong with that statement. There error comes in what is implied, or ignored. Aversion of an automobile-related crisis does not prove the resurrection. It does not prove the inspiration of Scripture. It does not prove the deity of Christ, nor his substitutionary death. What then does it prove? It proves that God loves ME, but only to me. It is entirely without objective, empirical implications as to the existence of God, the validity of Christianity, or the eternality of the soul. It simply proves my “God” to me.
The second condition is slightly more complex. It seems that many Christians believe in a supernatural aspect to singing. I am not talking about singing simply being a means of grace (which it is when Christians sing the Word) but rather the belief that music itself has a supernatural aspect, i.e. the act of singing is practically magical. An exclusively Christian, “Spirit-induced” altered state of consciousness is the only/best/most effective way that Christians “experience” God.
Both of these conditions have been caused by, and have caused more church music that is inward-looking, repetitive, and often anti-intellectual (like our Christianity…?). It has resulted in a view of “worship” that is essentially superstitious (like our Christianity?...).
It seems to me that music does not need to have a supernatural quality aside from the Word of God contained or expressed therein. Knowledge changes perspectives and behaviors, sometimes even aside from illumination. For example, a man wrestling with life-threatening kidney disease will typically follow any diet given to him by doctors. This is not supernatural, this is cause and effect. Also, a man who knows that his surgery is complete and successful will experience renewed confidence and hope. Any truth seems to have an affective quality. Similarly, confessing what we know to be true (objective, outside ourselves) to one another strengthens bonds of trust within a community.
I don’t think church music has to be as supernatural and superstitious as we often make it. It is a means of grace, by virtue of being part of the proclamation of the Word; that is if the Word of Christ dwells among us in our singing, then our singing is indeed a means of transformation unto Christ-likeness. But this has to happen by knowledge. Objective truth about the Eternal Being of infinite importance seems to be the best remedy for narcissism and superstition.
The first looks like this:
“God is love, God does good things. My car battery almost died (or any temporal situation) but then somebody fixed it, and now I know that God loves me.”
There’s nothing wrong with that statement. There error comes in what is implied, or ignored. Aversion of an automobile-related crisis does not prove the resurrection. It does not prove the inspiration of Scripture. It does not prove the deity of Christ, nor his substitutionary death. What then does it prove? It proves that God loves ME, but only to me. It is entirely without objective, empirical implications as to the existence of God, the validity of Christianity, or the eternality of the soul. It simply proves my “God” to me.
The second condition is slightly more complex. It seems that many Christians believe in a supernatural aspect to singing. I am not talking about singing simply being a means of grace (which it is when Christians sing the Word) but rather the belief that music itself has a supernatural aspect, i.e. the act of singing is practically magical. An exclusively Christian, “Spirit-induced” altered state of consciousness is the only/best/most effective way that Christians “experience” God.
Both of these conditions have been caused by, and have caused more church music that is inward-looking, repetitive, and often anti-intellectual (like our Christianity…?). It has resulted in a view of “worship” that is essentially superstitious (like our Christianity?...).
It seems to me that music does not need to have a supernatural quality aside from the Word of God contained or expressed therein. Knowledge changes perspectives and behaviors, sometimes even aside from illumination. For example, a man wrestling with life-threatening kidney disease will typically follow any diet given to him by doctors. This is not supernatural, this is cause and effect. Also, a man who knows that his surgery is complete and successful will experience renewed confidence and hope. Any truth seems to have an affective quality. Similarly, confessing what we know to be true (objective, outside ourselves) to one another strengthens bonds of trust within a community.
I don’t think church music has to be as supernatural and superstitious as we often make it. It is a means of grace, by virtue of being part of the proclamation of the Word; that is if the Word of Christ dwells among us in our singing, then our singing is indeed a means of transformation unto Christ-likeness. But this has to happen by knowledge. Objective truth about the Eternal Being of infinite importance seems to be the best remedy for narcissism and superstition.
Wrong Doctrine in Hymns
"Wrong doctrine in preaching would be noticed, in hymns it may come to be believed." When I read this statement from Margaret Clarkson, I remember as a teenager having this attitude that, though I may not understand a certain text that was being sung in church, or the text seemed not quite right, I was sure that it must be okay because, after all, we're singing it in church and none of the godly people here seem to have a problem with it. In fact they seem to be enjoying it. Not until much later did the meaning of "create in me a clean heart, oh, God. And renew a right spirit within me. ... take not thy Holy Spirit from me" become clear to me. Sure, I was singing Scripture, but not in the right context. This song is a prayer, and by singing it, I was praying that I would not lose the Holy Spirit. Strange prayer for someone that believes she can't lose the Spirit. Certainly if my pastor had preached this he would have forced to resign. Songs, even though taken directly from Scripture, can be theologically incorrect for believers to sing.
# 1 Hot Christian Song 2009-05-16
"Free To Be Me"
Francesca Battistelli
At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream
A war's already waged for my destiny
But You've already won the battle
And You've got great plans for me
Though I can’t always see
(Chorus)
‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me
When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out
My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow
But things don't always come that easy
And sometimes I would doubt
(Chorus)
And you’re free to be you
Sometimes I believe that I can do anything
Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring
But You look at my heart and You tell me
That I've got all You seek
And it’s easy to believe
Even though
(Chorus)
Francesca Battistelli
At twenty years of age I'm still looking for a dream
A war's already waged for my destiny
But You've already won the battle
And You've got great plans for me
Though I can’t always see
(Chorus)
‘Cause I got a couple dents in my fender
Got a couple rips in my jeans
Try to fit the pieces together
But perfection is my enemy
On my own I'm so clumsy
But on Your shoulders I can see
I'm free to be me
When I was just a girl I thought I had it figured out
My life would turn out right, and I'd make it here somehow
But things don't always come that easy
And sometimes I would doubt
(Chorus)
And you’re free to be you
Sometimes I believe that I can do anything
Yet other times I think I've got nothing good to bring
But You look at my heart and You tell me
That I've got all You seek
And it’s easy to believe
Even though
(Chorus)
The Danger of Hymns
I was reading "A Survey of Christian Hymnody" this afternoon when I was struck with a perplexing question about the danger of hymns. I have often thought of the power of hymns to convey biblical truth, edify fellow believers, and express meaning full praise to God. Yet never before had I pondered whether or not there is an inherent danger in the writing and singing of hymns.
This was first brought to my attention in reading about the hymns written during the early years of Christianity in which the Arian and Gnostic heresy were most prevelant. "A Survey of Christian Hymnody" notes that, "Both the gnostics and the followers of Arius apparently wrote large numbers of hymns that expressed their views..." (5). Because hymns can so adequately and succinctly express ideas, the followers of these heresies used them to further their abberations from biblical Christianity.
The great danger in hymnody is seen in this example. Hymns are the handmaidens of theology, both sound and unsound. Indeed, even in today's Christianity the gnosticism of personal spirituality and the idolatry of worshipping an unbiblical God are fueled by touchy-feely, vague lyrics. How then should Christians treat hymns and hymn writing? In the days of the Gnostic and Arian heresies, the Church responded in two different ways. "A Survey of Christian Hymnody" observes, "The encounter with the heretical hymns provoked two reactions among those holding orthodox beliefs: the writing of orthodox hymns to compete with those of the heterodox, or the outright rejection of "hyman-composed" hymns to avoid the possibility of singing heresy" (5).
So I guess the short, simple answer is to sing the Bible, or hymns that are so closely tied to the heartbeat of the Bible that it is nearly impossible to seperate the two. Otherwise hymns wills cease to further theological literacy and doxological response. But will, in fact, corrode both the knowledge and worship of God.
This was first brought to my attention in reading about the hymns written during the early years of Christianity in which the Arian and Gnostic heresy were most prevelant. "A Survey of Christian Hymnody" notes that, "Both the gnostics and the followers of Arius apparently wrote large numbers of hymns that expressed their views..." (5). Because hymns can so adequately and succinctly express ideas, the followers of these heresies used them to further their abberations from biblical Christianity.
The great danger in hymnody is seen in this example. Hymns are the handmaidens of theology, both sound and unsound. Indeed, even in today's Christianity the gnosticism of personal spirituality and the idolatry of worshipping an unbiblical God are fueled by touchy-feely, vague lyrics. How then should Christians treat hymns and hymn writing? In the days of the Gnostic and Arian heresies, the Church responded in two different ways. "A Survey of Christian Hymnody" observes, "The encounter with the heretical hymns provoked two reactions among those holding orthodox beliefs: the writing of orthodox hymns to compete with those of the heterodox, or the outright rejection of "hyman-composed" hymns to avoid the possibility of singing heresy" (5).
So I guess the short, simple answer is to sing the Bible, or hymns that are so closely tied to the heartbeat of the Bible that it is nearly impossible to seperate the two. Otherwise hymns wills cease to further theological literacy and doxological response. But will, in fact, corrode both the knowledge and worship of God.
Christianity Today Article on "The Church of O"
Here's the article from Christianity Today that Kevin Twitt mentions in his piece "Why Hymns are Relevent in a Postmodern World."
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2002/april1/1.38.html
http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2002/april1/1.38.html
Leonard Sweet on Globalization and Fragmentation
“Here is the multiple world in which we live. Temple Methodist Church in San Francisco befriended a Ukrainian refugee woman who works in San Francisco’s most traditional German restaurant which is owned by an Arab who is married to a Chinese woman who runs a pizza restaurant managed by a Russian.”
"True hymnwriters have not sought primarily to write hymns"
Just rereading and again enjoying Margaret Clarkson's article on the general characteristics [6 of them] that constitute a good hymn. I think the reason that I wanted a scripture passage chosen as the foundation for your original hymn text is that, really, genuine hymnwriters find a better reason for writing a hymn than merely to write a hymn. The writing of a hymn is the fruit that comes from the root of desire to be filled with the knowledge of God. This quote is really wonderful:
"True hymnwriters have not sought primarily to write hymns, but to know God: knowing him, they could not help but sing. Theirs are the hymns that have lived through the ages and will live far into the future. It is this kind of hymnwriting we need today if our generation is to contribute anything of real worth to the church's treasury of worship and praise."
"True hymnwriters have not sought primarily to write hymns, but to know God: knowing him, they could not help but sing. Theirs are the hymns that have lived through the ages and will live far into the future. It is this kind of hymnwriting we need today if our generation is to contribute anything of real worth to the church's treasury of worship and praise."
Sunday, May 10, 2009
MU 426 – Hymnology - Baptist Bible College
Summer School 2009 - Dr. David Harris, a.k.a. “Doc”
“Great hymns serve as prayer, praise, and proclamation in the context of worship. They often paraphrase a psalm, distill [increase the concentration of] the teaching of a specific scriptural passage, or relate doctrine or other spiritual truth by drawing on several biblical texts. Hymns are not emotionless. They make demands on the whole person . . . Fifty years ago the idea that one would need to argue in support of the existence and use of hymns in the worship of the church would have been laughable. Hymns were an element of Christian worship as customary as bread at mealtime. In the post-modern [Postmodernism is a term describing a wide-ranging change in thinking beginning in the early 20th century. Although a difficult term to pin down, postmodern generally describes the criticism of absolute, or unquestioned truths], post-Christian age [Post-Christian is a term used to describe a society which no longer accepts or adheres in the majority to classical Christian principles and theological concerns] in which we live, however, we should not be surprised that worship and worship music in evangelical churches have followed the path of our culture. Under closer examination one finds that our value system, musical and otherwise, reflects society’s primary philosophy [pragmatism], object of attention [ourselves] and occupation [our own amusement]. In this system, psalms and doctrinal poems set to music in the traditional form of Reformation congregational song do not appear relevant.” Paul S. Jones, Hymnody in a Post-Hymnody World [2003]
Course Description
A systematic, historical study of the origins [1] and purposes [2, 3] of the hymns of the church, including examination of hymns as literature, theological expression, devotional material, and musical expression [4]. Special emphasis will be given to the importance and viability of hymn singing in the 21st century [5, 6].
Course Objectives
Acquiring an understanding of the historical origins and purposes of the hymns of the Christian church [1, 3]
Recognizing the theological and musical components of hymns as literature, theological expression, devotional material, and musical expression [1, 4, 6].
Exploring, through student led discussion, hymnody against the backdrop of the 21st century worship spectrum [2].
Analyzing various contemporary responses to hymnody [3]
Singing and recognizing hymns of the Christian church [1, 4, 5]
Contributing to the viability and importance of hymn singing in the 21st century. [5, 6]
Course Requirements
1. Reading
William J. Reynolds and Milburn Price: A Survey of Christian Hymnody [1987] If new edition arrives we will synchronize the reading from this edition [which I am copying for you] into the new edition] 10%
Paul E. Engle [series editor] and Paul A. Basden [general editor]: Exploring the Worship Spectrum: 6 views [2004]
Daily Internet reading [see course outline]
2. Writing
Hymn Writing Project [see course outline] 20%
3. Singing
Daily singing of hymns [see course outline] Development of sight-reading and part-singing. 5%
4. Hearing
Recognizing 100 hymn names, hymn tune names, and meters from the Trinity Hymnal corresponding to its tuned played. [see testing]
5. Journaling
Daily “Blog” Journal entries 10%
6. Testing
Daily Testing
Comprehensive Cumulative Testing [May 15th and 22nd] 40%
7. Questioning and Conversing
Engaging daily conversations by crafting questions 15%
Summer School 2009 - Dr. David Harris, a.k.a. “Doc”
“Great hymns serve as prayer, praise, and proclamation in the context of worship. They often paraphrase a psalm, distill [increase the concentration of] the teaching of a specific scriptural passage, or relate doctrine or other spiritual truth by drawing on several biblical texts. Hymns are not emotionless. They make demands on the whole person . . . Fifty years ago the idea that one would need to argue in support of the existence and use of hymns in the worship of the church would have been laughable. Hymns were an element of Christian worship as customary as bread at mealtime. In the post-modern [Postmodernism is a term describing a wide-ranging change in thinking beginning in the early 20th century. Although a difficult term to pin down, postmodern generally describes the criticism of absolute, or unquestioned truths], post-Christian age [Post-Christian is a term used to describe a society which no longer accepts or adheres in the majority to classical Christian principles and theological concerns] in which we live, however, we should not be surprised that worship and worship music in evangelical churches have followed the path of our culture. Under closer examination one finds that our value system, musical and otherwise, reflects society’s primary philosophy [pragmatism], object of attention [ourselves] and occupation [our own amusement]. In this system, psalms and doctrinal poems set to music in the traditional form of Reformation congregational song do not appear relevant.” Paul S. Jones, Hymnody in a Post-Hymnody World [2003]
Course Description
A systematic, historical study of the origins [1] and purposes [2, 3] of the hymns of the church, including examination of hymns as literature, theological expression, devotional material, and musical expression [4]. Special emphasis will be given to the importance and viability of hymn singing in the 21st century [5, 6].
Course Objectives
Acquiring an understanding of the historical origins and purposes of the hymns of the Christian church [1, 3]
Recognizing the theological and musical components of hymns as literature, theological expression, devotional material, and musical expression [1, 4, 6].
Exploring, through student led discussion, hymnody against the backdrop of the 21st century worship spectrum [2].
Analyzing various contemporary responses to hymnody [3]
Singing and recognizing hymns of the Christian church [1, 4, 5]
Contributing to the viability and importance of hymn singing in the 21st century. [5, 6]
Course Requirements
1. Reading
William J. Reynolds and Milburn Price: A Survey of Christian Hymnody [1987] If new edition arrives we will synchronize the reading from this edition [which I am copying for you] into the new edition] 10%
Paul E. Engle [series editor] and Paul A. Basden [general editor]: Exploring the Worship Spectrum: 6 views [2004]
Daily Internet reading [see course outline]
2. Writing
Hymn Writing Project [see course outline] 20%
3. Singing
Daily singing of hymns [see course outline] Development of sight-reading and part-singing. 5%
4. Hearing
Recognizing 100 hymn names, hymn tune names, and meters from the Trinity Hymnal corresponding to its tuned played. [see testing]
5. Journaling
Daily “Blog” Journal entries 10%
6. Testing
Daily Testing
Comprehensive Cumulative Testing [May 15th and 22nd] 40%
7. Questioning and Conversing
Engaging daily conversations by crafting questions 15%
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