What does the Bible say about drums in church?

I. Terminology and Context

Early Hebrew texts do not use a modern term for “drums” but mention percussion instruments such as timbrels (or tambourines) that served a similar purpose. These instruments accompanied worship, celebration, and sometimes processions. In the Berean Standard Bible, the closest references include words like “tambourine” and “timbrel” (Psalm 150:4; Exodus 15:20), which indicate that percussion has been part of biblical worship culture for centuries. While the exact construction and style of ancient percussion instruments differ from modern drum sets, the principle behind them—producing rhythm and accompanying singing—remains consistent.

II. Old Testament Precedents for Percussion

In worship and celebration scenes, the Old Testament often depicts God’s people using a variety of instruments. Exodus 15:20 states, “Then Miriam the prophetess, Aaron’s sister, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women followed her with tambourines and dancing.” This verse connects percussion instruments to a praise setting, specifically after Israel’s deliverance from Egypt.

Likewise, Psalm 150:4 proclaims, “Praise Him with tambourine and dancing; praise Him with the strings and flute.” Although the word “drum” is not used, the tambourine (a frame drum or handheld percussion instrument) functioned similarly. These passages show that God’s people regularly incorporated rhythmic accompaniment into corporate worship and national celebration.

III. Worship Principles in the Old Testament

1 Chronicles 15:16 explains that King David appointed and equipped musicians with various instruments to facilitate joy and worship as the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem. This underscores a principle of ordered worship, with instruments playing a supporting role. Emphasis consistently falls on worship directed at God in gratitude and humility, rather than on the instruments themselves. Percussion in the Old Testament—timbrels, cymbals, and other noisemakers—magnified God’s glory rather than distracting from it.

Additionally, archaeological findings in regions around ancient Israel (such as those from the Canaanite and Philistine cultures) confirm the widespread use of small drums, tambourines, and frame drums in communal festivities. These discoveries corroborate the biblical accounts that percussion instruments were part of everyday life and religious rites.

IV. Worship in the New Testament

The New Testament does not provide explicit references to drums, timbrels, or cymbals in church gatherings in the same descriptive way as the Old Testament. Instead, it focuses on the heart attitude of worshipers. 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.” While the passage highlights singing, it neither restricts nor prescribes specific instruments. The principle is that worship in the church centers on unity, edification, and reverence for the Lord.

1 Corinthians 14:15–26 promotes orderly worship, ensuring that activities in the gathering benefit and build up the body of Christ. Although the context primarily concerns speaking in tongues and prophecy, it implies that any element brought into worship—be it musical or otherwise—should contribute to spiritual growth and corporate praise.

V. Historical and Cultural Considerations

Throughout church history, the acceptance of new instruments has varied. Early church traditions carried over certain elements of synagogue worship (such as chanting and choral singing) but generally lacked formal percussion. In the medieval era, some instruments were embraced, while others were avoided.

As music evolved, different Christian communities have integrated cultural instruments into their worship services. In certain African, Asian, and Latin American Christian traditions, drums have been a mainstay for centuries. Historically, many revivals and missionaries have used indigenous instruments, including drums, for worship, linking biblical precedents of percussion with local cultural expressions.

VI. Practical Guidelines for Modern Gatherings

• Edification of the Body of Believers: According to Paul’s directive in 1 Corinthians 14 for services to be orderly and beneficial, drums or any other instrument should be played in a manner that builds up, not overwhelms.

• Reverence and Focus on God: Since worship is for God’s glory, the volume, style, and placement of drums in a service should not overshadow the congregation’s focus on the Lord.

• Balance with Congregational Participation: Instruments can lead congregational singing (Colossians 3:16). Drums, deployed properly, can support rhythms that encourage collective participation rather than turn worship into a performance.

• Respect for Conscience: Romans 14:5 teaches, “One person regards a certain day above the others, while someone else considers every day alike. Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind.” By extension, churches vary in comfort levels with different music styles, including drums. Sensitivity and grace toward those who have concerns about percussion in worship settings is vital.

VII. The Heart of the Matter: Worship and Submission

The overarching biblical theme regarding music aligns with a heart of obedience and genuine praise. John 4:23–24 calls believers to worship the Father “in spirit and truth.” Whether with simple voices or accompanied by instruments of various kinds, the Bible emphasizes authenticity, reverence, and unity. Instruments—including drums—are permitted so long as they serve the greater purpose of honoring the Lord, edifying believers, and upholding order in corporate assemblies.

VIII. Conclusion

Scripture shows that percussion instruments, even if not termed “drums,” have been used historically in praising God. There is no biblical prohibition against using drums in the church setting. Instead, the biblical record highlights that the motive and focus of worship remain of utmost importance. Old Testament references to timbrels illustrate that percussion played a significant role in joyful praise, and New Testament principles of orderly worship and building up the body can readily accommodate modern percussion instruments when used with humility and reverence.

In sum, what the Bible says about drums in church can be understood under the broader support for musical worship: God’s people are free to worship with diverse sounds and instruments, always ensuring the worship reflects reverence for Him and love for one another.