Is Applause Appropriate?Is Applause Appropriate?
There have been changes in the realm of religion
Change itself is not necessarily wrong
However, change that violates Biblical principles is wrong
Sadly, there have been changes that violate Biblical principles within the Lord’s church
One change that is gaining acceptance is applause
Applause within itself is not wrong
We applaud our team, our political candidate, our high school graduates and others we deem worthy of our praise
But, is applause appropriate in worship?
Some maintain that it is perfectly acceptable
Some maintain that it is the modern cultural equivalent to saying “Amen”
Some maintain that it would not be acceptable in worship, but that it is perfectly acceptable to do at other times; for example, when someone is baptized
Some maintain that it is unacceptable at such times
The important question for us is not what others think or what some might say, but what does the Bible teach regarding this matter
Is it acceptable to God for us to applaud in worship? Or when someone is baptized?
What Is the Purposeof Applause?
What Is the Purposeof Applause?
A simple dictionary definition of applause is “to express approval of, as by clapping the hands”
A simple dictionary definition of applause is “to express approval of, as by clapping the hands”
When such is done in worship, who is being lauded?When such is done in worship, who is being lauded?
Is God being praised? Is God being praised?
If so, seeking to honor Him in a way He has not authorized (as shall be seen)
If so, seeking to honor Him in a way He has not authorized (as shall be seen)
Is an individual or group being praised by such?Is an individual or group being praised by such?
If so, we have gone beyond the realms of honoring God alone in our worship and have included the praise of man
If so, we have gone beyond the realms of honoring God alone in our worship and have included the praise of man
Also, applause is associated with being entertained Also, applause is associated with being entertained
Applause expresses the approval of an individual’s or a group’s performance
Applause expresses the approval of an individual’s or a group’s performance
In the affairs of the world, such is perfectly acceptableIn the affairs of the world, such is perfectly acceptable
But, is it acceptable to express one’s approval of an individual (i.e. the preacher) or a group (i.e. those serving at the Lord’s table) with applause?
But, is it acceptable to express one’s approval of an individual (i.e. the preacher) or a group (i.e. those serving at the Lord’s table) with applause?
Is applause AppropriateIn Worship?
Is applause AppropriateIn Worship?
As with any question regarding this area this one revolves around authority
As with any question regarding this area this one revolves around authority
There must be authority for all that is done in this realmThere must be authority for all that is done in this realm
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Colossians 3:17
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Colossians 3:17
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
John 4:24
God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
John 4:24
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
I Peter 4:11
If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
I Peter 4:11
As with any question regarding this area this one revolves around authority
As with any question regarding this area this one revolves around authority
There must be authority for all that is done in this realmThere must be authority for all that is done in this realm
Any practice that does not fit this criteria must be abandoned Any practice that does not fit this criteria must be abandoned
Simply stated, there is no authority for handclapping in worship
Simply stated, there is no authority for handclapping in worship
How is handclapping used in modern worship settings?How is handclapping used in modern worship settings?
Mainly in two forms- accompaniment to the singing and for demonstration of approval or appreciation (applause)
Mainly in two forms- accompaniment to the singing and for demonstration of approval or appreciation (applause)As accompaniment to singing it becomes a form of music itself As accompaniment to singing it becomes a form of music itself
“An art of sound in time which expresses ideas and emotions in significant forms through the elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and color…; Any sweet pleasing or harmonious sounds or sound.”
-“Music,” Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary
“An art of sound in time which expresses ideas and emotions in significant forms through the elements of rhythm, melody, harmony, and color…; Any sweet pleasing or harmonious sounds or sound.”
-“Music,” Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary
“Not all music is concerned with pitch; the rhythmic drum-beating, handclapping, or footstomping of many tribal peoples clearly lacks any well-defined pitch.”
-“Music,” Collier’s Encyclopedia
“Not all music is concerned with pitch; the rhythmic drum-beating, handclapping, or footstomping of many tribal peoples clearly lacks any well-defined pitch.”
-“Music,” Collier’s Encyclopedia
If used in this fashion it falls into one of two categories- instrumental or vocal
If used in this fashion it falls into one of two categories- instrumental or vocal
It is not vocal, therefore it is instrumentalIt is not vocal, therefore it is instrumental
There is only one type of music authorized in worship by God- vocal (and, particularly, singing)
There is only one type of music authorized in worship by God- vocal (and, particularly, singing)
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Ephesians 5:19
Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
Ephesians 5:19
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
Colossians 3:16
Thus, when used as accompaniment to singing it is an addition to what God has said and is, therefore, condemned by God
Thus, when used as accompaniment to singing it is an addition to what God has said and is, therefore, condemned by God
For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
Revelation 22:18
For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
Revelation 22:18
God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
Acts 17:24, 25
God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
Acts 17:24, 25
Thus, when used as accompaniment to singing it is an addition to what God has said and is, therefore, condemned by God
Thus, when used as accompaniment to singing it is an addition to what God has said and is, therefore, condemned by GodWhat about clapping hands to express approval for what is said/done (i.e. message preached)?
What about clapping hands to express approval for what is said/done (i.e. message preached)?How was such approval expressed in New Testament times?
How was such approval expressed in New Testament times?
Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
I Corinthians 14:16
Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
I Corinthians 14:16
If applause is appropriate for expressing appreciation for the message preached, why not applaud at the Lord’s Supper, or after a prayer, or after a song?
If applause is appropriate for expressing appreciation for the message preached, why not applaud at the Lord’s Supper, or after a prayer, or after a song?
The demeanor of worship must be reverentThe demeanor of worship must be reverent
Let all things be done decently and in order.
I Corinthians 14:40
Let all things be done decently and in order.
I Corinthians 14:40
These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes.
Psalm 50:21
These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes.
Psalm 50:21
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8, 9
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Isaiah 55:8, 9
Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
Ecclesiastes 5:2
Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.
Ecclesiastes 5:2
If applause is appropriate for expressing appreciation for the message preached, why not applaud at the Lord’s Supper, or after a prayer, or after a song?
If applause is appropriate for expressing appreciation for the message preached, why not applaud at the Lord’s Supper, or after a prayer, or after a song?
The demeanor of worship must be reverentThe demeanor of worship must be reverent
Perhaps this statement presents the modern mindset for the atmosphere of worship:
Perhaps this statement presents the modern mindset for the atmosphere of worship:
“What wisdom is gleaned for worship planners from these prototype churches and their surveys of unchurched America? Keep the mood and tempo of worship upbeat. Resist the minor keys, they’re too somber. Discard ‘churchy’ anthems and hymns…Provide sermons with catchy ‘How to…’ titles. Encourage casual dress and informal ambiance. Drive the beat of worship with percussion, conclude songs with a
“What wisdom is gleaned for worship planners from these prototype churches and their surveys of unchurched America? Keep the mood and tempo of worship upbeat. Resist the minor keys, they’re too somber. Discard ‘churchy’ anthems and hymns…Provide sermons with catchy ‘How to…’ titles. Encourage casual dress and informal ambiance. Drive the beat of worship with percussion, conclude songs with a
flourish of high notes and loud dynamics (no one feels compelled to clap after slow or soft music)….We don’t allow any music in our church to which you couldn’t rollerskate. The new model for efficiency and friendliness and enthusiasm is Walt Disney World.”
-Alan Walworth, “Journal of the American Academy of Ministry,” 1992
flourish of high notes and loud dynamics (no one feels compelled to clap after slow or soft music)….We don’t allow any music in our church to which you couldn’t rollerskate. The new model for efficiency and friendliness and enthusiasm is Walt Disney World.”
-Alan Walworth, “Journal of the American Academy of Ministry,” 1992
True worship must be based on reverence and respect for God, the Object of worship, not on man’s desires for entertainment or self-gratification
True worship must be based on reverence and respect for God, the Object of worship, not on man’s desires for entertainment or self-gratification
“There is a sacredness of worship that must not be sacrificed on altars of superficial spirituality, fads of the day, emotion-rousing handclapping, and entertainment oriented quartets and choirs. The profound dignity of worship should not be sacrificed to shallow, sensational displays of drama.”
-Tom Holland
“There is a sacredness of worship that must not be sacrificed on altars of superficial spirituality, fads of the day, emotion-rousing handclapping, and entertainment oriented quartets and choirs. The profound dignity of worship should not be sacrificed to shallow, sensational displays of drama.”
-Tom Holland
Is applause The CulturalEquivalent to Saying “Amen?”
Is applause The CulturalEquivalent to Saying “Amen?”
Many contend that it is and, thus, justify its use therebyMany contend that it is and, thus, justify its use thereby
However, even if it is the “cultural equivalent” of saying “Amen,” it still must pass the test of being Scripturally equivalent
However, even if it is the “cultural equivalent” of saying “Amen,” it still must pass the test of being Scripturally equivalent
As noted, it is perfectly Scriptural to say “Amen” to express approval or agreement (I Corinthians 14:16, etc.)
As noted, it is perfectly Scriptural to say “Amen” to express approval or agreement (I Corinthians 14:16, etc.)
The Greek word translated “Amen” is found 188 times in Scripture (also translated “verily”)
The Greek word translated “Amen” is found 188 times in Scripture (also translated “verily”)Not once will the text tolerate the word “applause” as a suitable substitute for the word
Not once will the text tolerate the word “applause” as a suitable substitute for the word
The word “clap” does not appear in the New Testament, but is found 8 times in the Old Testament
The word “clap” does not appear in the New Testament, but is found 8 times in the Old Testament
As with mechanical instruments of music, the Old Testament is thus used to justify its usage today
As with mechanical instruments of music, the Old Testament is thus used to justify its usage todayThe handclapping found in the Old Testament was done in political situations, used figuratively, used as a means of mockery and derision, and engaged in on occasion of a military victory
The handclapping found in the Old Testament was done in political situations, used figuratively, used as a means of mockery and derision, and engaged in on occasion of a military victory
It was never used in any approved religious senseIt was never used in any approved religious sense
The major difference between saying “amen” and clapping of the hands to demonstrate agreement or approval is that saying “amen” is authorized and Scriptural; handclapping is neither
The major difference between saying “amen” and clapping of the hands to demonstrate agreement or approval is that saying “amen” is authorized and Scriptural; handclapping is neither
Is applause AppropriateAt Baptisms?
Is applause AppropriateAt Baptisms?
Although the baptism of one into Christ is indeed a happy occasion, it is, like worship, a serious occasion
Although the baptism of one into Christ is indeed a happy occasion, it is, like worship, a serious occasion It is not an occasion designed for our entertainment, but an occasion of solemnity and dignity which is worthy of all seriousness
It is not an occasion designed for our entertainment, but an occasion of solemnity and dignity which is worthy of all seriousness
Baptism brings the penitent believer to the blood of Christ through the death of Christ
Baptism brings the penitent believer to the blood of Christ through the death of Christ
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:3, 4
Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:3, 4
Thus, it would seem just as appropriate to clap at a baptism as it would be to clap at the Lord’s Supper or to applaud the crucifixion of Christ- If not, why not?
Thus, it would seem just as appropriate to clap at a baptism as it would be to clap at the Lord’s Supper or to applaud the crucifixion of Christ- If not, why not?
Although not addressed specifically, matters surrounding one’s baptism into Christ must be regulated by the seriousness of the act itself, its purpose and the foundation upon which it is based (death, burial and resurrection of Christ)
Although not addressed specifically, matters surrounding one’s baptism into Christ must be regulated by the seriousness of the act itself, its purpose and the foundation upon which it is based (death, burial and resurrection of Christ)Although it is a happy occasion, it is also a very serious occasionAlthough it is a happy occasion, it is also a very serious occasion
Some Additional ThoughtsConsidered
Some Additional ThoughtsConsidered
In a recent brotherhood lectureship one of the speakers addressed this issue of applause
In a recent brotherhood lectureship one of the speakers addressed this issue of applause
Although not present, do have access to his presentationAlthough not present, do have access to his presentation
Can only speak to those things that are given in the presentation since not present to hear what was said
Can only speak to those things that are given in the presentation since not present to hear what was said
In examining his message, forced to take issue with some of his arguments and with his conclusion
In examining his message, forced to take issue with some of his arguments and with his conclusion
Let’s highlight some of the material that was presented and examine it (slides with white background are his slides)
Let’s highlight some of the material that was presented and examine it (slides with white background are his slides)
I propose the following Basic Argument:
1. If clapping is unscriptural, it is because it is either instrumental music or it is unauthorized.
2. It is not instrumental music.
3. It is not unauthorized (because there is no category swapping).
4. Therefore, it is not unscriptural.
If it is “instrumental music” it is unauthorized (would put it in both categories); if clapping is unscriptural it is because it is unauthorized- period!
If it is “instrumental music” it is unauthorized (would put it in both categories); if clapping is unscriptural it is because it is unauthorized- period!
I propose the following Basic Argument:
1. If clapping is unscriptural, it is because it is either instrumental music or it is unauthorized.
2. It is not instrumental music.
3. It is not unauthorized (because there is no category swapping).
4. Therefore, it is not unscriptural.
Is he sure? If it is ever used musically/rhythmically it is either instrumental or vocal- the only two possible categories
Is he sure? If it is ever used musically/rhythmically it is either instrumental or vocal- the only two possible categories
DURING A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: Clapping may be intended as a form of music--if so, it is wrong. Clapping may also be kinesive
communication expressing joy, activity, or involvement. Besides, all sound is “percussive” in some sense (2 Kgs. 11.12; Job 27.23; Ps. 47.1; 98.8; Is. 55.12).
“It is not instrumental music” (?) Then, “if intended as a form of music,” what kind would it be?
“It is not instrumental music” (?) Then, “if intended as a form of music,” what kind would it be?
I propose the following Basic Argument:
1. If clapping is unscriptural, it is because it is either instrumental music or it is unauthorized.
2. It is not instrumental music.
3. It is not unauthorized (because there is no category swapping).
4. Therefore, it is not unscriptural.With what scripture is it authorized?With what scripture is it authorized?
I propose the following Basic Argument:
1. If clapping is unscriptural, it is because it is either instrumental music or it is unauthorized.
2. It is not instrumental music.
3. It is not unauthorized (because there is no category swapping).
4. Therefore, it is not unscriptural.
The premises are faulty; therefore the conclusion is in error- it is unscriptural because it is unauthorized
The premises are faulty; therefore the conclusion is in error- it is unscriptural because it is unauthorized
TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP: IN RESPONSE TO A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: “Amen” could approve both the message and the messenger in the OT (Deut. 27. 15-26; 1 Chr. 16.36; Ps. 106.48; Neh. 5.13; 8.6; Jer. 11.5; 28.6; Rev. 5.14; 7.12). Even if this were so, how do we know the motives of those who clap? Besides, is 1 Corinthians 14.16 a binding example? If so, no other words can be said responsively except “Amen.” Why would it be wrong to approve the
messenger anyway?
Apparently, an attempt to equate saying “Amen” with applause
Apparently, an attempt to equate saying “Amen” with applause
TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP: IN RESPONSE TO A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: “Amen” could approve both the message and the messenger in the OT (Deut. 27. 15-26; 1 Chr. 16.36; Ps. 106.48; Neh. 5.13; 8.6; Jer. 11.5; 28.6; Rev. 5.14; 7.12). Even if this were so, how do we know the motives of those who clap? Besides, is 1 Corinthians 14.16 a binding example? If so, no other words can be said responsively except “Amen.” Why would it be wrong to approve the
messenger anyway?
The motive is a non-factor if the action is unauthorized; one cannot do a wrong action in a right way
The motive is a non-factor if the action is unauthorized; one cannot do a wrong action in a right way
Example: One may have the right attitude toward baptism but still not have it performed correctly
Example: One may have the right attitude toward baptism but still not have it performed correctly
TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP: IN RESPONSE TO A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: “Amen” could approve both the message and the messenger in the OT (Deut. 27. 15-26; 1 Chr. 16.36; Ps. 106.48; Neh. 5.13; 8.6; Jer. 11.5; 28.6; Rev. 5.14; 7.12). Even if this were so, how do we know the motives of those who clap? Besides, is 1 Corinthians 14.16 a binding example? If so, no other words can be said responsively except “Amen.” Why would it be wrong to approve the
messenger anyway?
Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
I Corinthians 14:16
Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
I Corinthians 14:16
TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP: IN RESPONSE TO A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: “Amen” could approve both the message and the messenger in the OT (Deut. 27. 15-26; 1 Chr. 16.36; Ps. 106.48; Neh. 5.13; 8.6; Jer. 11.5; 28.6; Rev. 5.14; 7.12). Even if this were so, how do we know the motives of those who clap? Besides, is 1 Corinthians 14.16 a binding example? If so, no other words can be said responsively except “Amen.” Why would it be wrong to approve the
messenger anyway?
If it is an approved “example” it is binding (cf. Acts 20:7)If it is an approved “example” it is binding (cf. Acts 20:7)
TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP: IN RESPONSE TO A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: “Amen” could approve both the message and the messenger in the OT (Deut. 27. 15-26; 1 Chr. 16.36; Ps. 106.48; Neh. 5.13; 8.6; Jer. 11.5; 28.6; Rev. 5.14; 7.12). Even if this were so, how do we know the motives of those who clap? Besides, is 1 Corinthians 14.16 a binding example? If so, no other words can be said responsively except “Amen.” Why would it be wrong to approve the
messenger anyway?
The word translated “Amen” is also translated “verily” and means “surely; so be it”
The word translated “Amen” is also translated “verily” and means “surely; so be it”
It is a rule of logic that one may substitute the meaning of a word for the word itself without doing it any harm
It is a rule of logic that one may substitute the meaning of a word for the word itself without doing it any harm
However, to substitute a different act entirely (handclapping) is to violate the principles of logic
However, to substitute a different act entirely (handclapping) is to violate the principles of logic
The idea that equivalent words might be uttered (i.e. “that’s right”) does not violate the principle given in I Corinthians 14:16
The idea that equivalent words might be uttered (i.e. “that’s right”) does not violate the principle given in I Corinthians 14:16
However, the substitution of an entirely different action does!However, the substitution of an entirely different action does!
TO CLAP OR NOT TO CLAP: IN RESPONSE TO A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: Worship is directed to God, but is also for mutual edification (Eph. 5.19; Col. 3.16). “Reverent actions” are largely culturally
determined--i.e. comfort zones.
Wrong! Reverent actions are determined by ScriptureWrong! Reverent actions are determined by Scripture
“Culture” may determine that whistling, clanging symbols, snapping fingers, etc. are “reverent actions”
“Culture” may determine that whistling, clanging symbols, snapping fingers, etc. are “reverent actions”
Just because something may be viewed as “culturally equivalent” does not mean it is Biblically equivalent
Just because something may be viewed as “culturally equivalent” does not mean it is Biblically equivalent
DURING A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: This is a misuse of the argument from silence. If the Bible does not mention it, we must see if the action changes the nature of what is commanded. “Simplicity” is asubjective term. Silence is permissive if the matter does not violate something about which God has been specific.
Does the action of clapping hands “change the nature” of the command to “say amen?”
Does the action of clapping hands “change the nature” of the command to “say amen?”
Does saying the equivalent of amen “change the nature” of the command?
Does saying the equivalent of amen “change the nature” of the command?
After returning home from a youth rally where there was
clapping during the singing —if your spouse asked you if they had used instrumental music, would
you say, “Yes”?
CLAPPING IS NOT INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC.
Might answer thus, but would be wrong if the clapping was used in conjunction with the singing
Might answer thus, but would be wrong if the clapping was used in conjunction with the singing
DURING A WORSHIP EVENT OR ACTION
ANSWER: Clapping may be intended as a form of music--if so, it is wrong. Clapping may also be kinesive
communication expressing joy, activity, or involvement. Besides, all sound is “percussive” in some sense (2 Kgs. 11.12; Job 27.23; Ps. 47.1; 98.8; Is. 55.12).
After returning home from a youth rally where there was
clapping during the singing —if your spouse asked you if they had used instrumental music, would
you say, “Yes”?
CLAPPING IS NOT INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC.
If it is used in conjunction with singing or used in place of singing (like humming may be), it is musical
If it is used in conjunction with singing or used in place of singing (like humming may be), it is musical
If it is musical it is either instrumental or vocalIf it is musical it is either instrumental or vocalIt is not vocal; therefore it is instrumentalIt is not vocal; therefore it is instrumental
However, the “prohibitive use of silence” only prohibits substituting
something
FROM THE SAME CATEGORY
for something about which God has been specific—i.e., Noah’s
substituting POPLAR wood for GOPHER wood for the ark.
What about the priesthood? Moses instructed that those of Levi were to serve as priests (Numbers 3, 18)
What about the priesthood? Moses instructed that those of Levi were to serve as priests (Numbers 3, 18)
For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
Hebrews 7:14
For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
Hebrews 7:14
However, the “prohibitive use of silence” only prohibits substituting
something
FROM THE SAME CATEGORY
for something about which God has been specific—i.e., Noah’s
substituting POPLAR wood for GOPHER wood for the ark.
What would it take to substitute “from the same category” in this regard? Someone from another tribe? Gentile? An animal? When would it stop being substitution “from the same category,” and why would it not be just as wrong?
What would it take to substitute “from the same category” in this regard? Someone from another tribe? Gentile? An animal? When would it stop being substitution “from the same category,” and why would it not be just as wrong?
Similarly, GOD HAS NOT SPOKEN about CLAPPING
in the New Testament.
So CLAPPING is permissive if it does not make a
CATEGORY ERROR as previously explained.
This is a straw man. If it is not authorized (and it is not), it is not permissible, regardless of whether it makes a “category error” or not
This is a straw man. If it is not authorized (and it is not), it is not permissible, regardless of whether it makes a “category error” or not
It appears that this is just another way of arguing that “cultural equivalence” equals Biblical equivalence
It appears that this is just another way of arguing that “cultural equivalence” equals Biblical equivalence
What CATEGORY ERROR does CLAPPING make? To say it is
not authorized leads to inconsistency because, from this point of view, neither are pulpits
or songbooks.
CLAPPING DOES NOT MAKE A CATEGORY MISTAKE.
Same argument that those who support instrumental music make
Same argument that those who support instrumental music make
Using songbooks aids in (and is not an addition to) the singing; pulpit stands and microphones add no new element to the worship service
Using songbooks aids in (and is not an addition to) the singing; pulpit stands and microphones add no new element to the worship service
Mechanical instruments do add another element Mechanical instruments do add another element Handclapping does add another element, an unauthorized element
Handclapping does add another element, an unauthorized element
Concluding Matters
1.When we clapped with children’s songs (for generations without the current problems, I might add), was the clapping wrong because it was unauthorized or because it was instrumental music? NEITHER.
Perhaps one of the problems the current generation has- things were done in the past without inquiring as to whether they were scriptural or authorized; now being done without regard as to whether authority is needed
Perhaps one of the problems the current generation has- things were done in the past without inquiring as to whether they were scriptural or authorized; now being done without regard as to whether authority is needed
The mere fact that something has been done in the past does not mean it was done then with scriptural authority, nor that it can continue to be done now without it. The past does not serve as authority for the present
The mere fact that something has been done in the past does not mean it was done then with scriptural authority, nor that it can continue to be done now without it. The past does not serve as authority for the present
Great care should be exercised to insure that we do not make allowances for VBS, camp and other events for matters to be included in items of worship that we would not allow in our regular assemblies
Great care should be exercised to insure that we do not make allowances for VBS, camp and other events for matters to be included in items of worship that we would not allow in our regular assemblies
Concluding Matters
1.When we clapped with children’s songs (for generations without the current problems, I might add), was the clapping wrong because it was unauthorized or because it was instrumental music? NEITHER.
His answer is “Neither”His answer is “Neither”
My answer would be “Both”My answer would be “Both”
Some greater depth regarding these matters and other matters similar in nature were addressed in the noted presentation
Some greater depth regarding these matters and other matters similar in nature were addressed in the noted presentation
The basic arguments have been addressed and time does not permit further examination
The basic arguments have been addressed and time does not permit further examination
Is Applause Appropriate?Is Applause Appropriate?
In the entertainment realm and worldly affairs, absolutelyIn the entertainment realm and worldly affairs, absolutely
However, when it comes to worship and matters spiritual in nature, it is not authorized, is not appropriate and should not be allowed
However, when it comes to worship and matters spiritual in nature, it is not authorized, is not appropriate and should not be allowed
-The presentation addressed was that given by Ralph Gilmore at the 2007 Freed-Hardeman Lectures-Sources included numerous articles on the subject from various brotherhood publications and authors