Stoned-Campbell Disciple

(This was written in Gunnison, Colorado in 2017) I grew up in the “Churches of Christ” in north Alabama. If there was anything people knew about CofCs it was they were “a cappella.” (This word was invented in the 15th century). In fact a staple for preaching was the sin of instrumental music. Extreme statements are not difficult to find on this subject, even the assertion that God hates instrumental music (in light of the Bible this one is hard to swallow).

I gave up this position a long time ago because I simply read the Bible. It is one of those traditions we have turned into a law. The fact that the Jerusalem Church, as far as the NT record is concerned, never ceased worshiping in the Temple proves beyond reasonable doubt the “New Testament Church” did in fact worship with instruments (and why they are used in worship in God’s presence, Revelation 5.8-9; 14.2-13; 15.1-4). Since Paul had no problem with offering animal sacrifices (which included instruments btw), I find it incredibly specious that he would draw the line at harps!

But yesterday I was in Colorado. My daughter and I were cruising down Highway 50. She was telling me about her project (she is a music major in college). So we talked and listened to Gustav Mahler, Symphony No. 2.

After filling me in on Mahler’s conversion to Christianity, she said that the music is Mahler putting “into music” his journey of faith.

Rachael said, “the music is so powerful I can barely make it through it without tears.” (She has to play it). She offered many more words and insight.

Mahler’s music draws from deep within us, the response of worship to the King.

The symphony is sometimes called the Resurrection Symphony. The symphony is an act of worship given to offer praise to God.

For anyone who claims that an instrument cannot bring glory to the Lord has never encountered Gustav Mahler. The Holy Spirit inspired Chronicler records that David regulated the musicians who

“shall offer praises to the LORD with instruments which I have made for praise” (1 Chron 23.5, RSV).

I don’t even like classical music. But Mahler’s Resurrection Symphony brought me straight into the house of worship, with my daughter.

I am so glad I learned from my daughter.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 24th, 2024 at 1:44 pm and is filed under Chronicles, Music, resurrection, Unity, Worship. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.