Galen Smith Retired from Multnomah Bible College and Biblical Seminary

There is a richness in the diversity of people in the universal Church. Some of the differences are due to the variety of interpretations of certain passages of Scripture, such as how baptism should be administered. Other differences relate more to personal preferences, such as the amount and types of liturgy, or the style of music used in church. When the differences are based on interpretation of Scripture or doctrinal matters, there cannot be two or more correct views. Either one is correct and not the other, or both are incorrect. This is not necessarily the case with differences of preference. If some prefer older hymns while others prefer contemporary Christian music, that is not an issue that is either right or wrong. It is an issue of preference.

It so happens that some people prefer exuberant, loud, joyous praise and worship, while others prefer more solemn, quiet, reverential worship. Naturally, those who prefer one thing will tend to fellowship with churches which worship in that style. I believe that this is why some churches and denominations promote exuberant worship while others emphasize solemn reverence. It is what they prefer.

One of my favorite psalms makes it clear that both worship styles are not only allowed, but even called for by Scripture. Psalm 95:1-5 commands us to come before the LORD with loud, joyful, exuberant praise and thanksgiving, for he is the God who created all things and sovereignly rules over his universe. Psalm 95:6-7 commands us to quietly bow down in humble reverence before the LORD, for he personally made us and cares for us like a shepherd cares for his sheep. Thus both styles of worship are not just acceptable, they are both commanded. Psalm 95:8-11 is a warning. I believe it describes a third aspect of worship that should apply to both the other styles. Whether we worship exuberantly or solemnly, we must always worship obediently. Just as "obedience is better than sacrifice," God wants our obedience to his commands to sweeten our praise and worship. Empty words, whether exuberant or solemn, are not pleasing to God.

January 22 2015 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Anthony Clinton Teacher in China

It’s not unusual that your emotions felt exhilaration when the Holy Spirit came upon you and in fact it is quite normal. Though you indulged in this ecstatic joy and it was a wonderful feeling, we are taught by Paul that we can always control our emotions and our expressions in the public Church gathering where untaught Christians are and also unbelievers.
If you had of experienced the sign gift, that when the tongue is spoken at least one of the hearers understand, then the results would be that the hearer would know that God was indeed speaking to them. It seems that you had not returned to the Church and the obvious reason would be that because in that Church there were those that did not know about the gift of tongues, they might judge you harshly. The Bible says they will think you are mad. So by all means pray in your prayer and worship language between yourself and God. The Scripture says in 1Cor 14:2.. that it is only understood by God. That is unless that God gives someone the gift of interpretation.

1Co 14:20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. 
1Co 14:21..In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. 
1Co 14:22..Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. 
1Co 14:23..If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? 
1Co 14:24..But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: 
1Co 14:25..And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. 
1Co 14:26..How is it then, brethren? When ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.

October 30 2014 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report