What does the Bible say about church musical instruments?

Historical Context and Purpose of Musical Instruments

Throughout Scripture, musical instruments feature prominently, reflecting both joyous praise and solemn devotion to God. Archaeological findings from ancient Israel, including depictions of harps and lyres in reliefs and inscriptions, lend credence to the historical reliability of passages mentioning instrument use. These discoveries underscore the cultural and worship practices verified in biblical texts, demonstrating that God’s people frequently employed various instruments to celebrate His glory.

Instruments in Old Testament Worship

1. Early Mentions of Instruments

Musical instruments appear early in Old Testament history. Genesis 4:21 briefly notes Jubal as “the father of all who play the harp and flute”. This early reference establishes a biblical precedent that music-making is an important and deeply rooted human activity.

2. David’s Role and the Tabernacle

King David organized structured worship involving instruments. First Chronicles 15:16 describes how David appointed “the Levites to serve as musicians before the ark of the LORD, to celebrate and to give thanks and praises to the LORD”, employing stringed instruments, harps, lyres, and cymbals. David’s commitment paved the way for a rich tradition of musical worship in Israel.

3. Temple Worship in the Reign of Solomon

When Solomon completed the temple, instrumental music became integral to worship. Second Chronicles 5:12–13 recounts how the Levites, with cymbals, harps, and lyres, joined by 120 priests sounding trumpets, lifted a unified voice of praise, declaring, “He is good; His loving devotion endures forever.” The presence of instruments was so significant that the glory of the LORD filled the temple in response (2 Chronicles 5:14).

4. Restoration Practices of Hezekiah and Ezra

During reforms led by King Hezekiah, musical instruments were reestablished in temple worship (2 Chronicles 29:25). Later, in the post-exilic period, Ezra and Nehemiah witnessed similar restoration practices (Nehemiah 12:27). These examples illustrate that instruments were not merely decorative but were believed to be God-ordained expressions of worship and celebration.

Psalmic Directives for Musical Praise

1. Commanded Use in the Psalms

The Book of Psalms contains multiple instructions to praise God with instruments. Psalm 150 is perhaps the most explicit, urging worshipers to “Praise Him with sounding cymbals; praise Him with clashing cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Hallelujah!” (Psalm 150:5–6). This directive underscores that God delights in mankind’s joyful noises, including musical instrumentation.

2. Variety of Instruments

The Psalms reference trumpets (shofars), harps, lyres, cymbals, tambourines, and stringed instruments. These texts emphasize the significance of variety and creativity in praising God. Psalm 33:2–3 states, “Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to Him with a ten-stringed lyre. Sing to Him a new song; play skillfully with a shout of joy.” Such breadth of instrumentation indicates a broad acceptance of musical expression in worship.

Instruments in the New Testament Era

1. New Testament Silence on Specific Instruments

While the New Testament does not explicitly instruct believers to use or not use instruments in worship gatherings, it affirms the importance of singing praises. Ephesians 5:19 encourages believers to be “speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music in your hearts to the Lord.” Colossians 3:16 similarly calls for teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.

The New Testament’s focus on singing and heart posture does not negate or forbid the use of instruments. Instead, it fosters consistent biblical principles of worship: honoring God with sincerity and truth, whether one uses the voice alone or accompanies it with instruments.

2. Heavenly Worship and Harps

In the Book of Revelation, instruments appear in heavenly scenes. Revelation 5:8 references the twenty-four elders each holding a harp, and Revelation 14:2–3 describes heavenly worship sounding “like harpists strumming their harps.” These depictions reinforce that instruments can be part of the eternal worship of God.

Church History and Instruments

1. Early Church Views

Some early Christian communities, influenced by cultural or philosophical reasons, placed less emphasis on instruments. It is essential to note that early church writings do not universally ban instruments; rather, the primary focus was on vocal praise and preserving unity in worship.

2. Reformation and Post-Reformation Eras

During the Reformation, various traditions held differing practices regarding instruments. Some Reformed churches initially emphasized exclusive psalm-singing without musical accompaniment, while others embraced instruments as biblical and permissible. This historical diversity reflects an ongoing theological discussion influenced by Scripture, tradition, and local customs.

Theological Significance

1. Glorifying God with Creativity

Scripture portrays the use of instruments as one way to glorify God (Psalm 150:4–5). Human creativity finds a sacred purpose when directed toward the One who creates and sustains life. Instrumental worship aligns with the biblical narrative, which affirms that every good gift, including artistic expression, comes from God (James 1:17).

2. Corporate Unity and Edification

Instruments can enhance unity by helping congregations maintain tempo and tune, fostering a meaningful, cohesive worship atmosphere. First Corinthians 14:40 enjoins believers to conduct worship “in a fitting and orderly way.” Properly guided instrument use can complement this goal, serving the body of Christ and aiding believers to glorify God together.

3. Heart Posture Over Method

The Bible consistently highlights the heart attitude over external forms. Whether or not instruments are used, genuine worship remains a matter of worshiping “in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Instruments, while biblically endorsed for praise, are never to overshadow the sincerity of one’s devotion.

Practical Considerations for Modern Churches

1. Style and Cultural Context

Different churches around the world adopt various musical styles suited to their cultural context. Just as ancient Israel employed harps, lyres, trumpets, and cymbals familiar to their time, modern believers use guitars, pianos, drums, and other instruments. Aligning with biblical principles of true worship, churches can incorporate culturally relevant instruments to direct attention toward the Lord.

2. Sensitivity to Congregational Needs

Consideration for congregational needs and preferences is integral. Romans 14:19 encourages believers to “make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” Balancing volume, style, and repertoire can help avoid distractions and maintain unity in worship.

3. Training and Excellence

Psalm 33:3 advocates playing skillfully before the LORD, suggesting that dedication to rehearsal and practice honors God. Churches may invest in training worship teams, ensuring that those who play have both the technical abilities and spiritual maturity to lead effectively.

Conclusion

Scripture provides strong affirmation for the use of instruments in worship, from the earliest references in Genesis through the psalms, temple ceremonies, and heavenly worship scenes depicted in Revelation. Although the New Testament focuses on the heart’s motivation and unity among believers, it does not negate instrumental expression.

When embraced with reverence, instruments can unify the congregation, enliven praise, and help believers fix their gaze on the Lord. Psalm 150 serves as a timeless reminder that anything that can produce a joyful sound for God’s glory is welcomed in His presence: “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Hallelujah!” (Psalm 150:6).