Why do the churches of Christ only sing and not use musical instruments

A short lesson explaining why the churches of Christ only sing and don't use musical instruments.

[@dmana3172]

Nowhere in the NT does it say that God allows musical instruments as part of worship. But nowhere in the NT does it also say that God prohibits musical instruments. I don't think we are under any obligation as to how to worship God. There's nothing wrong with musical instruments as long as they are used in addition to singing from our heart and for no other purposes. I just don't see why the COC wouldn't allow it. I loved the Church, it's one of the best I've been too, but they need to know that they are free to use some instruments.

[@LGministry]

If I give you 5 dollars and tell you to go to the store to buy milk does that give you the right to buy a candy bar? The simple answer is no. If you buy a candy bar, you have done something I have not said, and you would be in trouble. It's pretty easy for us to understand this principle in real life situations, so why is it so hard to understand when it comes to the Bible. God commanded us to sing and not play. So, we sing and don't play. If we add instruments, then we add something God did not ask for or approve of. It really is that simple.

[@davidduke2073]

Cougan Collins then why in Ephesians 5:19 does Paul say “speak to one another in PSALMS?” He specifically mentions psalms there, psalms is a large part of how David worshiped God, specifically in Psalms 150. Paul,in the same scripture, says to sing a melody and spiritual songs in/with your HEART. He never says “with your mouth, lips, or voice.” So by your argument and if we follow EXACTLY what Paul says then it’s front for us to sing worship with our voice is it not???

[@sergejvilmar]

@@LGministry If you want to take your logic to the max, God didn't say anything about the internet or KZbin in the New Testament or any of the Bible. I believe anyone who creates videos to share the Gospel is doing an act of worship and that this not "extra revelation" Paul wrote letters, went to many nations, and spoke to the people; his goal was to share the Gospel. Phones or Zoom meetings aren't mentioned in the New Testament, but I'm sure he would've used them to share the gospel if he had them! Now there's a bit of a different because you get instruments in old testament and no instruments in new. But I don't think that all because instruments are just not mentioned at all that you can just assume that it's a shameful thing to use instruments. Becareful the logic you use because I've seen people try to say that all because the language and the way that homosexuality is talked about in the New Testament, that it is now ok. If you're looking at changes in language or what's said and what's not said and using that to say what's right and wrong, then you're walking a slippery slope.

[@rickyedwards7504]

Music is s gift from God, the human voice and instruments. To say sing but not play instruments is really looking for the spec in your brothers eye while ignoring the beam in yours. Sorry I just can’t agree with your reasoning. Paul tells us ( New Testament) that whatsoever we do, do yo the glory of God. A Christian playing an instrument for Gods glory IS DOING JUST THAT.

[@biblestudydonedeeper]

@@sergejvilmar that is infered in the command to "go" Matthew 28:18-20

[@sergejvilmar]

My question is, how in what way does the proper use of Instruments with the purpose of glorifying God go against biblical theology? If you take the approach of things not being used in the New Testament, KZbin is not in the New Testament, but you can worship God through creating videos that glorify him. I can't see in any way how the use of instruments (in the correct way) Go against the New Testament.

[@LGministry]

There is a difference between aids and additions. The command is for us to go and preach, which is a general command. You can go by foot, car, plane, radio, internet etc. These would all fall under the general command to go. Under the O.T. they were commanded to use MI 2 Chron 29:25, but under the N.T. we are commanded to sing Eph. 5:19. What you will notice is that we went from a lot physical rituals to a spiritual form of worship in the N.T. Most people understand that we are to use unleavened bread and the fruit of the vine for the Lord's Supper even though nothing is stated that we cannot use something different or add to it. Most would say can't mess with the LS, but the same principle applies to singing. God commanded us to sing. Therefore, that is what we give as we worship Him in spirit and in truth.

[@bondifiedshawty]

Cougan Collins so the talents God have us we aren’t suppose to use it to praise him? I taught myself to play the keyboard, it was put in my heart to play the keyboard and worship God, are you telling me that I’m not suppose to bring glory to God this way cause the New Testament didn’t say specifically to use musical instruments? So why do you use cell phones and TVs etc you shouldn’t at all because the bible didn’t mention such.

[@maxxiong]

@@LGministry Eph. 5:19 is not a command to sing though, it is part of a command to be filled with the spirit from verse 18, and verse 19 simply explains some ways that this manifests itself. BTW this is a letter to a specific church, and if that church did not use instruments it would be reasonable to expect them not to be mentioned if God does not prohibit them.

[@TheBluegoatman]

So the God of the Old Testament wanted to be worshipped with instruments. Then the New Testament God no instruments. Then God on His Throne in Heaven again is worshipped with instruments. I guess John's Revelation isn't part of the New Testament in the Church of Christ. Just out of curiosity can you give me chapter and verse where it says we're are too build buildings to meet in? Can you please also give me chapter and verse on using KZbin. KZbin isn't mentioned in the New Testament. Yet here you using a video sharing platform to put your views into the public domain. Technicality that's adding to the Word of God. Lastly I would ask for chapter and verse where God said you could use English. The Old and New Testament alike were neither written in the language you speak. In fact English hadn't even been invented yet. The first English versions of the bible didn't come along until the 16th century. So by not doing this video in Greek you are adding to the Word of God because of a translation that's much older than the orginal manuscripts and not their original language. Please if your authority truly comes from the New Testament please explain who decides what gets left out because from the look of it you skipped A LOT of things that aren't in scripture but that you are perfectly comfortable with doing.

[@LGministry]

The instruments mentioned in Revelation are in symbolic texts and are not talking about actual MI. We are commanded to meet. They met in houses, rented places, etc. To build a place to meet fits in with this idea. Taking the gospel to the entire world is general command. You could go by horse, foot, plane, internet, etc. The focus is going, but the specific how. They used various languages within the N.T. Why would we not use the various languages available to teach the gospel? You should read Acts 2. God commanded MI under the O.T. along with many other physical rituals, but under the N.T. His focus is on the spiritual and what come from man's heart. We are commanded to sing not play. It really is that is easy. You should also check out the video which explains more about what is binding. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iqS8aIaaqrKjqcU

[@dennishagans6339]

@@LGministry I refuse to be cowed to some denominations received doctrines where there is no room for any debate, as I already found out with the church of Christ as with so many others, it's our way or the highway. they will tolerate you for a while but when you refuse one of their doctrines then at some point you will be asked to leave. The only reason for claiming those Harps in Rev are symbolic is that if there are not then you have musical instruments in the New Testament book of Rev, but since you have already concluded that there are not supposed to be musical instruments in the "church" then in order to save your doctrine as EVERYONE does you explain away or interpret away scripture (calling it symbolic) that would otherwise give your already received doctrine a fit. Also, we are not done with the OT, there are still OT prophesies to be fulfilled, there are all of the Prophesies of the Comming Messiah (Jesus) We still look to the Psalms for comfort in times of trial and grief, we still look to Proverbs for wisdom 2Ti 3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 2Ti 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. The only bible available to the New Testament Christians for right at 400 years was the OT, that is the All scripture Pauls was exhorting Timothy about as the New Testament would not be a thing for quite some time. They preached Jesus from the OT they debated from the OT Act 18:24 And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. Act 18:25 This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. Act 18:26 And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. Act 18:27 And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: Act 18:28 For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ. What was good for the New Testament church is still good and viable today, Eze 18:20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. Eze 18:21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. Eze 18:22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. Eze 18:23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD : and not that he should return from his ways, and live? Is that in Eze old hat and passe? no, it is still very much applicable today and still preaches very well today, we can rightly say that many things from the OT carried into the NT so that we can also allow for musical instruments in the NT because God gives people the talent for music even today, that talent according to you is wasted and has no place in the NT.

[@dennishagans6339]

@@LGministry Rev 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: Rev 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. If you say Revelation is symbolic and it is not you just placed yourself under the curses of the Book of Revelation. By calling Revelation symbolic when it is not you are taking away from the book, by saying oh there is nothing to that because it is symbolic, and what happens when you take away from Revelation? Your part in the book of life is taken away, that is some pretty serious condemnation for a book that is supposed to be symbolic. Why the stiff penalties for a book that is symbolic? how about the penalties are there because rather than being just a symbolic book, the book is deadly serious and very much literal, otherwise, those very serious penalties seem out of place for a book that is just symbolic.

[@arcticfox6843]

In general, they do not worship at all, but drag themselves from one song to the next, like they have gastrointestinal disorder.

[@LGministry]

Not for sure where get such a dire outlook because that is nothing like where I am at. We sing with joy. We praise our God.

[@dennishagans6339]

@@LGministry Yes I agree

[@gamerparoski9288]

It’s called being stubborn and not realizing what the truth is.

[@matthewhall3127]

Thanks pastor Cougan for explaining why the COC chooses not to use instruments in worship. I've read a lot of the various debates in the comment section here and I find this entire topic very interesting. Unfortunately in our world today, the church is divided more than ever. Too often differences in what different denominations do and don't do divide us when we are called to be the unified body of Christ. Now I fully understand I am partially a hypocrite bringing that up, because there are certainly issues that I would leave a Church for, and I don't see anything wrong with that. There are issues big enough to divide the body of Christ, and that there are times where division is necessary to stay true to what we interpret from scripture. I also fully understand the COC's supreme focus is to rely on scripture as the source of truth. I think that's completely valid and without a doubt a wise thing to do. Trying to apply cultural context can be important, especially when understanding the Jewish culture and certain symbolism, but it can also be a slippery slope and an easy way to water down elements of the Bible and be used to permit certain sins today. This is especially true in the area of sexuality in today's culture. So the COC's desire to try to replicate the old church as much as possible and please God and not add anything that is not explicitly approved makes sense for the most part. As others pointed out though, not everything is clearly stated as a sin, nor stated as not a sin. That would be almost impossible to write down everything. That being said, if scripture is the divine word of God, we must conclude it is complete in its revelation to us. In areas it does not explicitly state approval or disdain, I think the verse in Romans 12:2 holds true: "Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect." You also quoted Galatians 5:19-21: "Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." The problem is, it is clear that there are multiple groups of Christians who have come to different conclusions of "what is the will of God" when it comes to the use musical instruments in worship. I realize based on your video many of the Church fathers were not supporters of instruments, which I thought was especially interesting, but still, this is clearly a controversial issue among Christians. However, the other issue is that ultimately these different groups of Christians have different convictions even when it comes to the order of what is important. I think that is why it can be difficult to have healthy discussions about topics like this, because it's really hard to change someone's mind of something they have already been convicted or not convicted of by reading scripture. Ultimately everything talked about in scripture is important, but I think most Christians can agree that issues of salvation are of the utmost importance and can be legitimate dealbreakers, and then there are lower-tiered issues that we as Christians need to discuss, study, pray about, and ultimately discern for ourselves or as a church body. The issue I'm seeing with the debate of whether or not MI should be used in the Church is it dividing the Church and being turned into "let me quote these 5 verses that help prove my point" issue. Throughout this entire comment section I'm seeing us try to prove each other wrong or right. In some cases it may be in the spirit of loving correction, but I also fear that it can too easily fall into the trap of religious legalism. This happens on social media and internet platforms in general, but I still think it's worth pointing out. I just met a wonderful woman I'm considering to date. I've attended a few different denominations growing up, but currently attend a nondenominational church. She has grown up in COC. We both agree on the big picture issues when it comes to the doctrine of salvation, but we disagree when it comes to the issue of instruments in worship. It would be a real shame, and frankly, I think a statement against the message of Christianity if we couldn't work through this disagreement. When I first was talking with this girl, I noticed how she made the COC sound like it was superior to other denominations. Frankly, any supreme loyalty to a particular denomination and not the word of God can easily be a pitfall into religious legalism. After talking to her about this, she of course apologized, because that's not what she was trying to come across as at all, and I know that. Still though, we all must be careful of taking our convictions so far that we start to act against the very things we believe to be true. We need to remember the greatest two commandments: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself." Mathew 22:36. I definitely struggle with judgment sometimes. It's hard to respect someone who believes something different than me, especially when it comes to areas of salvation. Ultimately though, I can in no way, shape, or form discern that using instruments in worship will displease God, be considered as a sin, or possibly risk my salvation. It's a grey area that in my opinion, has been taken to extremes and is getting in the way of bigger issues and people joining the Church. It's entirely possible I am wrong about that, however, even if I am, I believe Jesus died on the cross to atone for my sins and the issue of MI is not going to make or break that sacrifice. There is no doubt that too often the message of God's grace is overly preached in America today. God of course demands obedience, and a healthy fear of the Lord is a good thing. Ultimately, it's entirely God's position to be the judge, and each of us will have to give an account to God on the day of Judgment. If you believe differently on this issue, I can try my best to respect that decision. After all, we are brothers in Christ, and again, I think the decision not to use them ultimately comes from a good place. Unfortunately, it's all too easy as sinful human beings to take something really good and twist it into something else entirely. I'm not really expecting to change any opinions here, but just encourage both sides to examine where they are coming from. If anyone made it this far, thanks for taking the time to read it, and please test what I've said against the word of God to decern it to be true or not. Thanks

[@LGministry]

Thanks for your comment. There are certainly various views of the Bible, but I believe Jesus when He said we can know the truth, and how John said we can know that have eternal life 1 John 5:13. While there still may be some vague things that we disagree on, I believe we can be unified when we use the Word of God as our authority. In fact, the N.T. pushes the idea of us being of the same mind and not dividing ourselves. 10 Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11 For it has been declared to me concerning you, my brethren, by those of Chloe's household , that there are contentions among you. 12 Now I say this, that each of you says, "I am of Paul," or "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas," or "I am of Christ." 13 Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? (1 Cor. 1:10-13 NKJ) One thing you won't find in Scripture is the idea of denominations. There is only one church/body of Christ Eph. 4:4. When you plant God's Word into the heart of man and the soil is fertile is will produce a Christian, not a denomination where you call yourself a Baptist, Methodist, etc. The churches of Christ that you read about in Scripture (Rom. 16:16) are not a denomination. They are individual congregations that make up the one body of Christ. I would be opposed to any denominations just as Paul was. The fact that the Scripture teaches us to one and unified tells me that we can come to an understanding that is the same in Scripture. I am going to put this in the simplest terms. MI were commanded to be used under the Old Testament 2 Chron. 29:25 along with many other laws that were for the Jews. However, Jesus brought forth a new covenant, which has new rules/laws. No doubt some of the laws/rules from the O.T. were repeated under the N.T. However, many were not. If you pay attention, you will notice that there were a lot of physical acts under the O.T. such as animal sacrifices, burning of incense, etc. However, the N.T. almost everything is spiritual in nature. About the only physical act is partaking of the LS and giving. As we look at the N.T. we want to see what God has authorized us to do. Regarding singing, He has said He wants our singing to teach and admonish one another, and for it comes from our hearts. The heart is the instrument (again not the spiritual nature of this as opposed to a mechanical instrument). If God had wanted us to use a MI then He would have commanded as He did under the O.T, but He commands that we sing. Every example we have in Scripture in the N.T. with Christians worshipping God on earth is done by voice only. My question would be, why would want to worship God in a way He didn't ask for? Do you think He will be pleased with us doing it our way? Anything we add to what God has commanded us seems disrespectful to God because it is like us saying, "God, I know what your Word says, but I think I want to add this or take away that." When you read through the Bible and see how God expects His way to be followed to the T, it tells me that I need to follow His commands to the T. Yes, I know our God is full of mercy and grace, but He is also a just God. I don't want to be guilty of offering God vain worship, so I can know with certainty that if I worship Him by singing without the use of MI then I will be worshipping Him the exact manner He commanded. However, if I add MI, I cannot make that claim. I understand that some will make rules where there are no rules, which is where legalism comes in, but you can never go wrong when upholding God's truth. The only way you go wrong is either by not practice what you preach or by adding or taking things away from God's Word. I feel 100% confident that no one makes a case for use MI by command or example under the N.T. but you can make the case that God commands us to sing and that every example we have is of people singing. While I showed in the short video how the early Christian writers and even all those denominations were opposed to the use of MI, their writings and teachings are not inspired and not really needed because the N.T. teaches us all that we need to know. Again, thank you for comment. I hope something I wrote helps you understand my position on this matter, better.

[@davidduke2073]

No I think it’s clear that Paul says to sing and make a melody in your heart, referring to YOUR HEART BEING IN WORSHIP OF THE LORD, not just empty words. God is the unchanging one, God’s character, personality, and His being being DOES NOT CHANGE, so why would God in the Old Testament want musical instruments, but in the New Testament basically say “Nah I don’t like instruments anymore, don’t use them” that makes no sense. The New Covenant was the change of how we received salvation. Through Jesus Christ. I don’t believe the New Covenant changed how we are to worship God. Why does God give people talents and the ability to play instruments if we aren’t supposed to use that to Praise, Honor, and Glorify God??? What good is a gift or talent if we don’t use it for God?

[@LGministry]

God changed a lot of things from the O.T. to N.T. Many of the physical rituals that were required under the O.T. were done away with as N.T. worship focuses on the spiritual. You are arguments falls apart unless you are willing to revert back to temple worship, animal sacrifices, and the burning of incense. Some people have a talent of shooting a gun, boxing, yelling, running, and pole dancing, etc. Just because you have a talent at doing something doesn't mean you can use at part of your worship to God. Again, your argument falls apart unless you are willing to let anyone use whatever talent they have for the Lord no matter how sinful or out of place that talent might be.

[@dennishagans6339]

we have their use in the OT we also see their use in Heaven Rev_5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. Rev 14:2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: Rev 15:2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. Hum musical instruments used for worship in the OT, and a musical instrument used in Heaven, so before and after but not during the NT ya makes perfect sense to a church of Christ person but not much sense to non-church of Christ Christians. so we have sort of a sandwich in which we have musical instruments used it the OT and in Heaven but not in the NT because they are not mentioned anywhere. Rev 12:3 And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. Rev 12:4 And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for to devour her child as soon as it was born. Rev 12:5 And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne. Rev 12:6 And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that they should feed her there a thousand two hundred and threescore days. Rev 12:7 And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, Rev 12:8 And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. Rev 12:9 And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. would anyone like to take a stab at how lucifer got His Angels? as it is not told to us the "how" are we allowed to infer how he got them from the scripture we do have?

[@dennishagans6339]

2Ti 3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 2Ti 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 2Pe 1:20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 2Pe 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. Timothy only had the Word of God in the Old Testament scriptures, and until that which is perfect is come, that was all they had. They used and preached from the OT the things of Christ while the NT was being written, and was not completed (that which is perfect is come) until about AD 370-420. If you can preach Christ from the OT for right at 400 years until the OT and NT were combined into one complete book, then you can keep preaching Christ from the OT as it is still just as valid today as it was back then, Many people were born and died in those 400 years until the word of God had been completed with the NT having been written gathered and combined with the OT. 1Co 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 1Co 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 1Co 13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. 1Co 13:11 When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 1Co 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. That which is perfect was the completed Word of God both Old and New Testaments and put together in one book, containing 66 books total, 39 OT and 27 NT to make our bible complete and perfect. Musical instruments are found in the New Testament just as sure as Revelation is part of the New Testament Rev 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. Rev 14:2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: Rev 15:2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. Rev 15:3 And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. The OT is still just as viable for preaching today as it was in Timothy's day, as it is still part of... 2Ti 3:16 ALL Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. Who does not read the Psalms for comfort? who does not read the Proverbs for wisdom? Who does not quote (save for baptists) Eze 18:20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. Eze 18:21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. Eze 18:22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. Eze 18:23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD : and not that he should return from his ways, and live? Just because we are no longer under the Law, that does not mean we get to throw the OT out the back door! There are prophecies in the OT that have not been fulfilled yet, Zac 14 concerning the Millennial Reign of Christ and us with Him on this Earth. Then there is every prophecy about Jesus in the OT We are not done with the OT and that which is perfect is come is the NT and OT combined into one complete book, neither one being perfect alone, but both combined together into one book became that which is perfect is come. We have the witness of the OT for many things that are still viable today, why should we stop using musical instruments in the NT when it is clear we are not done with the OT.

[@stephenkyrie9896]

@@dennishagans6339 that man Cougan Collins obviously obeys the Campbells teachings and understanding rather than Jesus, he just want to justify that his teachings regarding on singing should be the TRUTH.

[@biblestudydonedeeper]

@@stephenkyrie9896 nope he obeys Jesus and when paul says sing he was directly inspired by the holy sprit instruments have no place in the Lords body but the heart eph. 5:19

[@TurtleDude05]

I'm curious as to what you think of the elders in revelations 5:8 where each had a Harp. As they all worshiped God.

[@LGministry]

For a more detailed discussion on this topic, I would recommend watching kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHzIdJafr61qpbs&ab_channel=CouganCollins and kzbin.info/www/bejne/baXZpGuQlNyBadk&ab_channel=CouganCollins or if you don't want to watch, but read then I can recommend the following two articles: www.lgchurchofchrist.com/THE%20TRUTH%20ABOUT%20SINGING.htm and www.lgchurchofchrist.com/Answering%20Arguments%20For%20The%20Use%20Of%20Musical%20Instruments.htm

[@migueliniguez9145]

You are wrong . If the bible does not say don't use instruments why would you make your own rules to prohibit them ?

[@SOSA1beast]

Where in the New Testament does is say that using instruments is wrong?

[@LGministry]

I tell you what, as soon as you show me where it commands us to use them in the NT or show me an example of where they used them in their worship to God then I will change my view. When you can’t find what I am asking for and you see that we are commanded to sing and not play then you will have the answer to your question.

[@SOSA1beast]

Paul is giving instruction that applies to all the people. Now, did every Christian at play a musical instrument? Then how could a command that applies to "one another" be practiced? Obviously, Paul's point is to stimulate a Spirit of personal and corporate joy among Christians, not to limit congregational music to singing. Also think Roman’s declared Christianity unlawful. Why then would an assembly of outlawed people blow trumpets and smash symbols together when Roman soldiers were likely nearby? This is the main reason early Christians did not play musical instruments during worship. It’s silly to think god doesn’t accept worship with instruments .

[@LGministry]

The command is for everyone to sing. If MI were in mind then everyone would have to play. If MI were commanded to be used and then they didn't use them out of fear, they were offering false worship. Where was their faith? Instead of Peter and John telling the Jewish authorities that would continue to preach the name of Jesus, your view of not using MI would be similar to saying that Peter and John would have agreed to the demands fo the Jewish leaders but would secretly talk about Jesus. The main reason Christians didn't use MI was because God commanded us to sing. Not only do the Scriptures teach this, early church history also teaches this. Why not just give God what He commanded instead of trying to add things that you want? Are you going to add other O.T. practices as well such as animal sacrifices? It's silly to think that God accepts worship with instruments when He did not command it, ask for it, or give an example of it.

[@SOSA1beast]

Cougan Collins The New Testament doesn't say Jesus wasn't married, so maybe He was. Jesus didn't condemn homosexuality, so He must have condoned it. (He might even have been gay.) The Bible doesn't talk about smoking, t, pornography, etc... so I guess they are ok. Of course, one can make a Biblical case for why each of these is wrong (i.e. Jesus being married or the homosexual issue), or why some may possibly be permissible The same can be said for instrumental worship today. A case could be made why it is right OR wrong. But, to teach one position is wrong without compromise is going beyond good exegesis. It seams to me to be a language translation issue . It is also interesting to look what Paul says in (Eph 5:19) "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." Two Greek words in this verse point to musical instruments. First, the Greek word for "psalms" in this is "psalmos" which according to Strong's means "a sacred ode (accompanied with the voice, harp, or other instrument; a "psalm") . Psalmos primarily denoted "a striking or twitching with the fingers (on musical strings)" then , "a sacred song, sung to musical accompaniment."" Second, the Greek word for "melody" in this verse is "psallo" from which psalmos" comes. Its definition is almost the same as "psalmos," being "to play on a stringed instrument." This word is also used in for "sing," in (Rom 15:9)(1 Cor 14:15: twice)(James 5:13), meaning of course that the "singing" could be accompanied by musical instruments. (James 5:13 says "sing psalms.)

[@LGministry]

You need to watch my series on singing and why we don’t use mi. It will show your confusion about those words. I can provide you with other resources as well if you like.

[@bishopjohnjamesmiller6242]

Praise ye the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. [2] Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. [3] Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. [4] Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. [5] Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. [6] Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord.

[@LGministry]

Yes! Under the Law of Moses we were commanded to use them 2 Chron. 29:25, but under the new covenant/law of Christ, we commanded to sing Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16. If you think we are still under Law of Moses, then I hope you are still doing animal sacerfices and traving to Jerusalem 3 times a year, etc

[@bishopjohnjamesmiller6242]

@@LGministry Jesus explained exactly what has been changed and what not. I saw him mention that we are not required to tithe anymore, but I never saw him mention musical instruments. I see no reason to believe how Ephesians 5:19 speaks against musical instruments. A lot of spiritual songs involve the harp. "And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more at all in thee; and no craftsman, of whatsoever craft he be, shall be found any more in thee; and the sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in thee" Revelation 18:22 Hmm... sounds NT to me :)

[@portermetcalfjr4209]

Excellent presentation Cougan! To the point, simple and effective message.

[@LGministry]

Thanks!

[@frankgunnels8872]

He conveniently leaves out facts to sway his audience. He also makes false claims. James taught Christians to use musical instruments in the praise of God. Additionally, thousands of Hebrew Christians worshiped God for decades with instruments.

[@LtDeadeye]

Please help clear my confusion on this topic. Ephesians 5:19 King James Version 19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody *in* your heart to the Lord; Ephesians 5:19 New International Version 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music *from* your heart to the Lord, Ephesians 5:19-21 American Standard Version 19 speaking [a]one to another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody *with* your heart to the Lord; The Greek ἐν or en means: Thayer Definition: 1) in, by, with etc. I confess a bit of confusion here. A psalm is defined in ancient Hebrew as *The sound from a musical instrument where the string is plucked or the singing that accompanies it.* It’s a tautology! It just doesn’t seem so crystal clear to me that it warrants confident finger wagging at those who use mechanical instruments. I’m open to being proven wrong. Also, if making melody in one’s heart implies the absence of mechanical instrument sounds, the conjunction *and* ,in the verse, would include the singing as well. At least that’s how I read it.

[@LGministry]

A Psalm is something that can be or not be accompanied with a musical instrument. When a instrument is used it is named. What do find being named in the verses in the N.T.? It is the heart. The heart is the insturment. Since we are commanded to teach and admonish, etc these are things that require words, which comes from singing, but the source is our hearts, which of course is acctually referring to our brains. So, I see no confusion. Under the N.T. there is not one example or command of people using MI as part of their worship to God, but we do have examples of people singing. Therefore, that is what I will give my God.

[@LtDeadeye]

@@LGministry I can understand what you’re saying but I don’t think it jumps out of the text as being so obviously true that it justifies the belief that all who use mechanical instruments are being obstinate. Theirs could be a justified false belief. And by your own admission that psalms could be either/ or, they could be right! It makes sense that a specific mechanical instrument would or could be described when talking about an instrument being used but when speaking in general prescriptive terms, not so much. Also, it says to sing *and* make melody. So they wouldn’t mutually exclusive. The use of mechanical instruments doesn’t preclude the singing! So one could still teach and admonish accompanied by music. Your claim that there’s no NT example of mechanical instruments, I believe, is presupposing that the very verses we’re talking about isn’t doing exactly that. You’re begging the question brother. My concerns are: 1. Not all versions say “in the heart”. For example: NIV - *From* your heart ESV - *With* your heart KJV - *In* your heart The Greek word for in *ἐν* or *en* according to Thayer’s definition is: in, by, with etc. So the words ‘from’, ‘with’ and ‘in’ all seem plausible in the context of the verse. 2. The word “and” is a conjunction. It is an inclusive term! Meaning, in this context, whatever is true for one could be true for the other. So if I’m singing *and* making melody in my heart, the word “and” would render me silent if making melody in my heart would render me functionally acapella because it could be said that I should also be singing in my heart, if we want to remain consistent. Example: “Singing *and* making melody in your hearts”. “Having fun *and* laughing in the classroom”. An ordinary reading of this wouldn’t lead someone to believe one should have fun and laugh in two different places. Finally, According to (Word Study) ψαλμός psalmós; gen. psalmoú, masc. noun from psállō (G5567), to sing, chant. *Originally a touching, and then a touching of the harp or other stringed instruments with the finger or with the plectrum; later known as the instrument itself, and finally it became known as the song sung with musical accompaniment. This latest stage of its meaning was adopted in the Sept.* ψάλλω psállō; fut. psalṓ, from psáō (n.f., see psēlapháō [G5584]), to touch lightly, twang or snap. To play a stringed instrument or to sing a hymn. Musicians who play upon an instrument were said to pluck the strings (psálloun chordás [n.f.]) or simply pluck (psálloun). The word came to signify the making of music in any fashion. Because stringed instruments were commonly used both by believers and heathen in singing praises to their respective gods, it meant to sing, sing praises or psalms to God *whether with or without instruments*

[@loganwillett2835]

no where in the bible does it say not to use musical instruments with praise and worship. it says to sing yes but it doesn’t say not to praise him with instruments as well. this is non sense. the only sources in this video claiming using instruments in worship was wrong were men.

[@LGministry]

God means what He says. Had He wanted us to use MI He would have commanded them. The Bible doesn't specifically say a lot of things. Are you willing to allow all things it doesn't specifically mention? If you are, then you can do just about anything you want. God tells me to sing, that settles it for me.

[@jackcollazo]

@@LGministry Have you ever considered that judging someone for committing an act like singing with a guitar would actually be the same as judging someone for eating meat that was used for idols? That's the point when it comes to what God has not condemned yet men are condemning. You don't see that point?

[@Perktube1]

I remember my church of Christ days, the hymnals, the pews, the two-handled grey felt collection bags.

[@LGministry]

I am not familiar with gray felt collections bags. Why did you leave the body of Christ?

[@jreyas6263]

None of that you mentioned is authorized for use in worship.

[@sydneyl.sabiniano6126]

I am Church of Christ 33 AD non-instrumental in the Philippines

[@GenesisKerenNava]

But God/Bible doesn’t condemn music either..

[@LGministry]

Doesn't have to. If the word had to command everything God wanted and then condemn what He didn't want we would have to have multiple volumes to contain all the useless words that are simply covered by following God's commands. He commands us to sing, that excludes everything else. It's easy to understand.

[@GenesisKerenNava]

Cougan Collins I respectfully disagree. Gods word is full of do’s and don’ts. A command to sing is not an exclusion of everything else. That’s painting with a broad stroke and limiting how we can glorify and express our praise and adoration of God. Just my humble opinion. 🙏🏼

[@69inetails]

God gave commandments for the instruments in Old Testament worship, however in the New Testament God doesn’t want them in his church anymore, . “Whatsoever you do in word or deed do all in the name of the Lord”. We have no authority to change what God wants ( it’s on Gods terms not ours). He wants us to sing in worship to him and not add or take away stuff.

[@zacharyhockett6248]

Thanks for the explanation. I was confused why some denominations felt this way about instruments. This is a pretty clear example of eisegesis of scripture so I definitely don't agree with your reasoning but I appreciate having a better understanding of it. Starting the argument off with handwaving the old testament is usually a dead giveaway of a bad doctrine.

[@JacobGlover2023]

So do you go by the ten commandments? It's in the old testament so just wondering

[@LGministry]

No. The Law of Moses and what was binding to the Jews was nailed to the cross Col. 2:14; Eph 2:14-16. Jesus brought forth a new covenant that was for Jew and Gentile. However, some commands from the Old was brought into the new. It just so happens that 9 out of the 10 commandments were restated with the Sabbath being left out.

[@loganwillett2835]

Cougan Collins would you mind providing the scripture where the commandments were restarted?

[@livslife8810]

@@loganwillett2835 Matthew 22:37-40 KJV

[@The1000000stephen]

I understand the Bible talks about singing, but there's no place that says only sing! Also COC wasn't started until the Restoration/stone Campbell movement in the 1800s. The reason I'm Catholic is because it's the only church that goes back 2000 years and it's the original church founded by Jesus.

[@LGministry]

God's Word doesn't have to list everything we cannot do specifically. All it has to do is tell us what God wants and that is what we give Him. He commands us to sing and EVERY example we have is of Christians singing. He doesn't have to qualilfy evey command with the word only. If you play that game with other things He commanded you could say, He didn't say only to do this, only to do that. The church of Chist began when Jesus died on the cross. He only paid for one church, His church. If you follow the Word of God, which is called the seed, then it produces Christians that are added to that one church by God Acts 2:47. The church of Christ began in A.D. 29 not at the restoration movment. Not to mention the fact the history shows the church of Christ being back in the 1300s as well long before the restoration movment. Romans 16:16 ...The churches of Christ greet you.

[@crazymarko1278]

Everyone in the church of Christ, please, please, please listen. The church of Christ thinks this way because they are very confused about what worship is in the first place. Before even getting to the level where doctrine on one subject or another is considered, there are even more fundamental areas where we must begin, like how to approach the Bible and what worship even is. It is at this level where the COC gets off the rails by assuming that we are supposed to be looking in the Bible for examples of worship and doing things exactly like the early church. They assume that we need to have some type of formal ceremony worship. These are assumptions and are fallacies, and lead to man-made rules and regulations like in this video. To the Children of Israel and the Jews, worship meant ceremony, and it had to be done correctly. In fact, ceremonial worship was a part of the old law itself. Thankfully for them, how to worship was laid out in detail in the OT. Maybe this is why the COC thinks of worship as ceremony? When the law passed away, it was not replaced with a new law, only a new covenant (a promise). Rules and regulations in worship were never a part of the new covenant. There are plenty of new concepts covered in the NT, and tons of descriptions of what we ought to be and correct attitudes, but rules for correct worship isn’t something that exists in our new covenant with God. The NT says that the law is written in our hearts. Worship should now only be described as celebrating or sharing Jesus, or simply serving out of love. Giving a poor person some cloths is just as much "worship" as what we do on Sunday morning. This being what worship is, is why there is not a list of what worship should physically look like in the NT. There isn't supposed to be a list, we are simply free to love Christ and spread that love in any way the Spirit guides us. That is what worship is, and you can feel the difference. Compare how witnessing to someone or going as a group to bless a poor family stirs the Spirit in you compared to sitting in a church “service”. It’s great to praise God and have sermons and Bible class, but there are no rules governing these things. Because the COC assumes worship is ceremony with rules, they have to make their own list of right and wrong by use of the unbiblical model of command, example, and necessary inferences. Combining examples from all over the NT and then arguing about them until they reach consensus of which examples are to be followed and which are not, then claiming they are the only true Church because of what they decided. As if that is what makes the true church. All the while, absurdly leaving out examples that are indeed in the NT like being in an upper room, having lamps lit, greeting each other with the holy kiss, drinking wine for your stomach’s sake, etc. And of course, also adding things there are no examples of in the Bible like having youth ministers and church buildings, etc, etc, etc. We are not supposed to be seeking authority for anything in how we worship; the Bible never tells us to. The COC tries really hard to restore the early Church, but we’re not supposed to be doing that either. Jesus said the gates of hell would never touch his Church, therefore it has remained unchanged since Acts. The church doesn’t need restoring. The COC thinks it does because they think Sunday ceremony is what church is, and view examples as commands. Concerning music in particular, add to all the above 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness), which is referring to the old testament, as well as some of the new testament. And as the guy in the video has nicely shown, music is listed and encouraged in the OT. Paul isn’t saying there are rules in the OT to follow, he’s telling Timothy that ALL scripture will assist him in being a righteous man. So, it would seem music can aid in our righteousness. -Straight out of the Bible. I appreciate the church of Christ because of their beautiful devotion and discipline to Christ, which is clear for all to see. But, like all of us, they are in need of growth. We’re not supposed to be going into the Bible to find the right or wrong way to worship. It’s in our hearts, and happens as naturally as fish taking to water.

[@LGministry]

Thank you for your comment. However, from a Biblical perspective, you are the one that seems to be confused. God has always taught how we are to worship Him. You want to make it out like we can just worship God how we want to. If that were true, then everything and anything could go. But what did Jesus say? John 4:24 "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." Please note: Jesus said this, not me. What He said goes against what you just said. He said we MUST worship Him in SPIRIT (from the heart) and in TRUTH (The Word of God Jn 17:17). You said: When the law passed away, it was not replaced with a new law, only a new covenant (a promise). Rules and regulations in worship were never a part of the new covenant. There are plenty of new concepts covered in the NT, and tons of descriptions of what we ought to be and correct attitudes, but rules for correct worship isn’t something that exists in our new covenant with God. I say: Do you know what a covenant is? I am beginning to think you don’t. It is not a one-sided agreement from God as a promise. If that were the case, then there is no law under the new covenant and all are saved. That is the logical end to your statement above. A covenant is between God and man. God will keep His side of the covenant, but we must keep our side as well, which means there are laws for us to follow. If there are no laws for us under the new covenant, then what are we going to be judged by? What about what Jesus says: Matthew 7:21 "Not everyone who says to Me,`Lord, Lord,' shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. God has given us specific commands and generic commands to follow. For example, The Great Commission says go. So, we are to go, but how we go is us to us. God has given us a brain and we can see that are to assemble with the saints, but where, what time, how many songs we sing, etc, is left up to us. However, we can look at the examples given and learn that the Lord’s Supper and giving was done on the first day of the week. The bottom line is we are given specific things to do to worship God in spirit and in truth, but we are also given generic commands that allow us to choose how we do things within the limits of those commands. When commands us to sing, that is what we do. We don’t add dancing, MI. etc to what God has commanded. However, we can sing which spiritual songs we want as long as they teach and admonish and praise God. You also don’t seem to understand the restoration plea. It’s about getting back to the Bible. If we follow the will of God and do things He has said, can we go wrong? No, we can’t, but if we start adding things that we want that He didn’t ask for, will He be pleased? No, He will not. We must stop making everything about us, and make it about Him. He is the one we are to please, not ourselves. I am concerned for your soul Mark because if you follow and practice what you are advocating in your comment, you are making the New Covenant null and void and leading people astray. Let’s never forget that Jesus is the author of salvation to those who will OBEY (Heb. 5:8-9). Let’s never forget what Paul wrote in: Colossians 2:14 having wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross. The Old Covenant brought to Christ, but thanks to Him we are under a new better covenant that is for everyone. I am so thankful that He nailed the old to the cross and brought forth the new. The New Covenant is our law and authority. The sooner we accept that, the better off we will be. I am so thankful for the grace of God and the salvation He has made possible for us all. Mark, I hope you will study more because you seem to be a nice guy, and I would hate to see a precious soul like yours be lost for eternity.

[@jackcollazo]

@@LGministry it is not Mr. Armstrong who is confused, as you claim. And I can't even say that you are confused. You know exactly what you are saying and so does Mark. The clear issue is that he is in the truth but you are not. Now I can understand how a statement like this can rouse up emotions as it happened to those who Jesus and his apostles opposed. However, speaking the truth kind of has that effect, and I am sorry if that's the case, but those who abide in truth have just the same right as you to speak, if not the responsibility. So allow me to prove my point. John 4: 23 “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24"God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." Now, you and men teach that "worship in spirit" means "(from the heart)" and that such, while singing, is a service worship to God on Sundays, thus it is a command expected by Him. The argument is that there is no teaching, command, example nor any insinuation that singing (with or without instruments) is the "worship in spirit" service from the heart to God on Sunday. It simply does not exist. Now, If we were to abide in the apostles doctrine as we are commanded to do (as it is a command) and the means on how one is saved as we read in Acts 2:42 then we can safely use THEIR words to explain what Jesus meant when he said "worship in spirit" as God is seeking those to do, thus COMMAND. Romans 12: 1 I beseech you THEREFORE, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, ACCEPTABLE to God, which is your reasonable SERVICE 2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and ACCEPTABLE and PERFECT WILL OF GOD. The carnal mindset would accept to believe that the word "worship" to God is physically singing to Him on Sunday, physically giving money on Sunday, physically standing on a pulpit to "preach", physically praying, physically taking the Lord's supper, and that such is the spiritual act "(from the heart)" that God is seeking to have performed as a worship to Him on the first day of the week. However, what is taught by the apostle as the SERVICE which is acceptable to God is "the renewing of your mind" How? "present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy" and "not be conformed to this world" Worshiping in spirit is a daily living obedience to the teachings given by the Holy Spirit, the way of Christ, mentally in submission to God's will, and doing so is a SERVICE to God which is exactly what He accepts. In such SERVICE we WORSHIP Him, just as He is seeking, which is why, as the apostle taught .... 2 Thessalonians 1:5"...that you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also SUFFER; " 1 Peter 2:20 "...But when you DO GOOD and SUFFER, if you take it patiently, this is COMMENDABLE before God. " 21 For TO THIS YOU WERE CALLED, because Christ ALSO suffered for us,* leaving us* AN EXAMPLE, that YOU SHOULD FOLLOW His steps: Philippians 1:29 For to you it has been granted ON BEHALF of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but ALSO to suffer for His sake, 2 Timothy 3:12 Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. Therefore, the "Sunday Worship Service" according to the teachings of men is not acceptable to God, no matter how strong or how many may believe so. Do we need to break bread, YES, there is absolutely nothing wrong with even a group of people doing so and even singing but the problem is that such act of remembering the sacrifice of Jesus and singing with gratitude is simply not enough for men so they device what is a once a week "worship to God" (no sacrifice or suffering at all) which He never commanded and only produces a false sense of joy and not renewing of the mind which is what God commands. I speak as my Master speaks and write as the apostle. Therefore, I implore you to get out of that religion created by man and I pray that someday you and others may find the boldness to sacrifice to God by abandoning the practice of what He does not accept nor command. Again, Mark Armstrong is not confused, he simply abides in truth.

[@LGministry]

How can Mark abide in the truth, when what he said was false? All of life is not worship to God. Consider this article www.christiancourier.com/articles/286-divine-pattern-of-acceptable-worship-part-1-the Then follow the link at the bottom of the article to part 2.

[@jackcollazo]

@@LGministry I read the article and I was not surprised to see that all of the lengthily words used to explain why the coc,Inc "worships in truth" is on the basis of verses where the practice of singing, preaching, making collections, praying, and partaking the Lord's supper is clearly evident. Allow me to clarify. The issue at hand is not the manner in which those practices should be done according to how it is written. That is a given, we must abide in the apostle's doctrine. The issue at hand is about "half truths". On the one hand it is true that Christians should not use instruments and there should be a breaking of bread on the first day of the week, etc. But the OTHER HALF is where the apostles never taught: that those 5 practices are to be used as a ceremonial Sunday worship service to be considered as the "worship in spirit" that Jesus spoke. You know why those in Berea were more noble. Because they did not search into "articles" written by men to see if what the apostles spoke was true. On the contrary, they searched the Scriptures to compare the words and its teachings to validate if what was spoken is the same. THE SAME. Words of half truth or "necessary inferences" would've been discarded and ignored because that is NOT how God inspires His words. Notice the words used in the article: "Another feature of church worship is prayer" "singing portion of our worship" "financing the work of the church of Jesus Christ" “Each week that a Christian is blessed with prosperity, so must he give for the support of Heaven’s work." "teaching and preaching is a form of worship" Those words are composed as futile attempts to justify the practice and belief of the "Sunday Worship Service", under the false assumption that this is what God commands and delights in. "church worship", "singing portion", "financing the work", "Heaven's work" are NOT from the apostle's doctrine. And as such we must reject it. You know how satan operates: on "half truth", as he told Eve "you will not die", yes, physically she didn't but spiritually she did. That "half truth" is a complete lie which is why Jesus told the pharisees that they practice the same as He said of satan " When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it." John 8:44 Do you see? "from his own resources" Christians must abide in wholesome written words, not "half truths", nor by our own understanding, our own resources. Remember the wisdom in Proverbs 14: 4 "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness IN IT breaks the spirit." which is why the apostle taught in 1 Timothy 6:3 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, …" verse 5 "...From such withdraw yourself." But you can clearly see how when a group of people break off from a denomination they take with them the same ceremonial practice of "Sunday Worship Service" ignoring how God commanded the children of Israel to be rid of all idols that were among the people of Egypt and yet even all of the Old Testament ceremonial practices were to be abandoned by Christians under the new covenant, how, then, can the restoration movement be about abiding in the word if the they also took with them the ceremonial "Sunday worship of men"? "worship in spirit" is on the basis of the apostles doctrine where we see in John 4:23 as mentioned before. As such Paul clarified to the Christians at Phillipi: Philippians 3:3 For we are THE CIRCUMCISION, who WORSHIP GOD IN THE SPIRIT, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have NO CONFIDENCE IN THE FLESH, Again, nothing about a ceremonial "Sunday Worship Service". Please, get out of that "do not handle" religion under the commandments and doctrines of men.

[@wmcleod217]

@@jackcollazo I'm still trying to find where it says all I have to be to be saved is ask Jesus into my heart. 🤔

[@coreycurtismusic2019]

God never commanded us not to use instruments. He never said they were wrong so that’s assuming the word.

[@LGministry]

So you think God not only has to command us to sing, but then has to make a list of things we can't do? If so, then there would be almost no limit to the things we could do, things I know you would not agree were ok for us to do. Think about it.

[@kaylamcme2432]

None of the examples you gave of quotes were from Jesus or the apostles, so they don’t give real authoritative statements. True we are commanded to sing, but from that u added something yourself: you said that that means we are to sing and NOT play musical instruments. Nowhere in the verse said that. I don’t mind if you would prefer not to use musical instruments, but my understanding is that it’s wrong to say that someone else’s worship is in vain simply because they do some thing the Bible never said was wrong. God is never changing and has always loved musical instruments; they are no longer required but neither are they condemned! That is my present opinion- thank you for sharing these insights!

[@LGministry]

You are welcome. Both of the key verses Eph. 5:19 and Col. 3:16 are from the Paul, who is an apostle. So, I am not sure what you mean when you say that none of my examples or quotes were from the apostles. The way I see it is that God is specific in what He wants. So, when we are commanded to sing, that excludes other things such as MI, dancing, etc. If we do things that God has not authorized, then how can it not be in vain? What you need to find in the New Testament is a command or example to use MI, which you cannot find. Wouldn't you agree that there is nothing wrong with just singing? There is nothing you say against that. However, you cannot find any authorization in the N.T. for playing MI or doing some kind of interpretive dance. Maybe you feel bold enough to go where has not gone, but I am not. Does that make sense?

[@bishopjohnjamesmiller6242]

@@LGministry Ephesians 5:19-20 KJV Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; [20] Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Are you saying all three categories - psalms, hymns and spiritual songs - are without instruments?

[@bishopjohnjamesmiller6242]

@@LGministry Has God authoritzed KZbin? No.

[@allenholloway5109]

Thank you for your concise reasoning. While it may seem like a weak argument to some, since they are not specifically prohibited, I understand that by adding seemingly harmless things to worship, it can create much bigger problems that compound on each other. To give an example directly involved with instruments in worship, I had been in a church with instruments, and actually played piano to accompany the worship. And while I was worshipping wholeheartedly, there was always the distraction of the music in front of me, splitting my attention. Far worse, though, I was disturbed to find that when I played well, the members of the congregation were far busier praising me afterwards for being so young and good at piano, and not thinking about God. This was even in a church that was, in my opinion, doing a lot of things that were right, and most of the members were those I considered to be strong Christians, but the worship was distracting for all of them, even if during the songs, the praise was genuine. Even if there was something that we could add that would indeed be harmless, we are flawed and shortsighted. How are we to know what is good and what is bad? It is far better to be overly cautious than drift away.

[@amyb5625]

I have grown up in the church of Christ. Have you ever sat back and just listened when they sing? It sounds dead. Surely God doesn't intend that. We often attend a local community church. They do everything the church of Christ does (including weekly communion) except they use instruments. The preacher eas a mainstream church of christ preacher and left over this issue. Many congregations are opening their eyes and their hearts and realizing they have been teaching wrong.

[@LGministry]

This sounds like an emotional plea based on your what you think you perceive. Why there ma be some Christians who sing half-hearted, there are plenty who sing from their hearts full of joy. With MI playing loud, how would you even be able to tell who is singing out or making a small noise? Can you find anything wrong with simply singing like God commanded us? How can it be wrong to teach what the Bible teaches? Can you find one command or example to play MI in the NT? I promise you cannot. Would it be ok for you if a church did everything the same you did except that also made ritual prostitution, performed the burning of children, or whatever you know is wrong? How about adding on wrestling match and call wrestling for Jesus to make it more lively. You need apply your logic in these other areas. When you see that if fails so does you argument of adding on MI. How about we not worry about entertaining ourselves and just give God what He wants? Stop being self-centered and be God-centered.

[@amyb5625]

@@LGministry Not in specific words, but I DO read where it says not to bind things on others that are not bound by God and to not loosen things that are not loosened by God. He didn't say one way or the other about the use of instruments. He also said not to argue about these things amongst ourselves. The person who plays an instrument can be just as right with God as those who don't. God knows the hearts of his people. When you are in the car, would you rather your family listen to garbage or a Christian music station on the radio? This isn't about "what I prefer". I'm telling you what I have seen. I've grown up in the church of Christ. Where is the command to meet Sunday nights and Wednesday nights too? Where is the command that it must be a couple of songs, a prayer, 3 more songs, communion, the offering, 1 song, then the sermon? Where is the command for a building, microphones, pitch pipes, power points, etc. Don't give me that "those are aids and MI are additions" because the MI can be viewed as an aid as well. I believe God sees past all of that into the heart of the worshipper. Why push an argument that simply and isn't clearly pushed by God. Campbell was the one that pushed it, not God. I also don't need to be psychoanalyzed and I don't appreciate that.

[@amapparatistkwabena]

Since you're talking about things changed: do you worship on Sunday instead of Sabbath? The early church has NO record of Sunday worship, but rather came to do so under on March 7, 321, Roman Emperor Constantine I issued a civil decree making a day of rest from labor, stating: All judges and city people and the craftsmen shall rest upon the venerable day of the sun. Why only go as far as instruments? If you're gonna go: GO ALL THE WAY. "For, I am the LORD; I change not." Malachi 3:6-8 "I am come not to destroy the law, but to fulfill." Matthew 5:17

[@LGministry]

Your information is incorrect. Even the Scripture teach that they came together on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7).

[@jackcollazo]

@@LGministry your teaching is incorrect. The purpose of them meeting on the first day of the week was to break bread in remembrance of Jesus on the cross. Jesus said " do this in remembrance of Me". He did not say "do this in worship to me" as you teach.

[@jackcollazo]

You are correct. There is no such teaching nor practice in the New Testament of a Sunday Worship Service.

[@aaronrbrundidge]

Great job!!!! Informative and entertaining at the same time!!

[@frankgunnels8872]

Informative? Yes. But, deceptive.

[@alexisomar1598]

I’ll keep praying about it. But would you say worship music like *example* or anyone that glorifies the Lord through their music is wrong? Or would this only apply to worshiping in service? I personally do think God uses music as a way to reach souls. But I do also see where youre coming from. It can be that some churches don’t want their members only in “worship” due to the instrumental melody. But not with their heart. We hope that we can lead them to God at the end of the day. We use instruments but we’re very clear about the difference in spirit and flesh.

[@caleblooper]

What scholars? Who had the New Testament authority, given from The Father, as Nathan to DECLARE such a new practice? Answer-None!! The scripture telling us not to “add anything to worship,” is not talking about an instrument. What an ambiguous take on a specified proclamation of scripture! OBVIOUSLY it was a regularity to use instruments since the time of David, if available. To say the scripture specifically is directed at instruments is such an AGENDA-FILLED PREFERENCE, as it was speaking to each individuals heart. As in,” Don’t bring anything to worship to other than your longing of Savior.” Why dilute THAT to an instrument? I don’t understand how any mature Christian could do that, unless blinded by a tradition of their Fathers.(Hey, I get it. If you tell me my Dad is wrong then you better have the education to back it up) It’s just sad to stay in an elementary wrong conviction when you know that God, our Father, never changes yet you change him...... He is the same yesterday(oldtestament) today (New Testament) and forever. Also, Jesus came to fulfill the law, not abolish the old..... He didn’t come to do a better job than his Dad, I mean! HE LOVES MUSIC. Sorry.....

[@LGministry]

The law of Moses and our obligation to keep it were nailed to the cross Col. 2:14. When something is nailed it is dead. Jesus did not come to destroy the law, He came to fulfill it. He did that. Through His death, He created a NEW COVENANT. If we take you view, then we need add everything from the O.T. and practice it today including stoning disobedient children, homosexuals, and adulterers and everything else you find the O.T. Oh, but you won't do that because you just one bring over the things you like such as MI. God has commanded us to sing, therefore that is what I will do.

[@johnjones8494]

Saying the New Testament does not authorize the church to use mechanical instruments of music is not the same as saying the use of such instruments are wrong. Nowhere does the New Testament condemn musical instruments in church. I have an ear for music. I’ve learned to play guitar very well. It’s a God given gift. I don’t have much of a voice due to smoking when I was younger. I can play my guitar to praise Jesus and you shouldn’t be quick to condemn

[@LGministry]

Thank you for your comment. I get it. Using musical instruments was used in the O.T. In fact, they were commanded (2 Chron. 29:25). Since nothing is inherently wrong with and instrument, why would it matter if one chose to use one to praise God under the new covenant? I also understand that you want to use your gifts to praise God. This all sounds great on the surface, but what sounds good to us doesn't always match up with what God wants. Let's use Moses as an example. First Moses was obedient Exod. 17:6 "Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink." And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. Next Moses is not obedient. Num. 20:8 "Take the rod; you and your brother Aaron gather the congregation together. Speak to the rock before their eyes, and it will yield its water; thus you shall bring water for them out of the rock, and give drink to the congregation and their animals." 9 So Moses took the rod from before the LORD as He commanded him. 10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the assembly together before the rock; and he said to them, "Hear now, you rebels! Must we bring water for you out of this rock?" 11 Then Moses lifted his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came out abundantly, and the congregation and their animals drank. 12 Then the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, "Because you did not believe Me, to hallow Me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them." Earlier, beating the rock was commanded by God. Moses did what he was supposed to. However, later God commanded that Moses speak to the rock, but he chose to beat the rock. Now, the water still came out, but God handed out big consequence of disobeying him even though nothing was said about beating the rock this time was wrong. Moses also failed to give God the glory for the water as well. I can show you example after example of how when God commands something, that is what is supposed be done regardless if what the person did was for good or bad. This is the same principle that is used regarding using MI under the new covenant. Under the new covenant, God commanded us to sing, not play Col 3:16; Eph. 5:19. There is now a single example of anyone playing an instrument to God for worship in the N.T. here on earth. Even the early writers after the first century did not use MI as part of their worship to God. The questions becomes, are you going to give God what He commanded or are you going to try and give Him what you think is acceptable to Him? There are a lot of talented people who can't sing well, but being good at something does not make it right for you to use as part of your worship to God. Some are good at throwing knives or blowing smoke rings. Does that mean they can use those talents to worship God? Of course not. You and others can certainly use their talents outside of worship, but we should never want to worship God in the way He did not authorize us to use because we don't be guilty of vain worship. I hope maybe I have helped you to see that we need to worship God in spirit and in truth, which means from our hearts regulated by the Word of God. Don't you think it's important that we follow God's way and not what we want to do? Moses tried striking the rock after being told to talk to it and cost him dearly. Do you want to make the same mistake as him? I don't, therefore I will continue to sing to God and not play a MI.

[@shebrownsuga]

I'm curious. If the COC is following everything in New Testament, then why don't they speak in tongues, believe in miracles and prophesy. How can you say you follow the New Testament about singing, but don't follow everything else in it? I feel the COC is so lost and I will be praying for them . Very sweet people, but are lost. The saddest thing ever is that they believe they are the one true church. All Christians coming together is the one true church, not COC by itself. End this silly argument. Whether you sing with music or without music God accepts that. Both are acts of worship. Can't we all just get along? God bless you!

[@LGministry]

Speaking in tongues, miracles, and prophesies were limited to the first century. They had a role in proving that God’s Word being spoken and revealed first time was from God Mk 16:20. Once we had all the parts revealed and it was complete/perfect then the the miraculous ended 1 Cor. 13. If you took the time to study with me or another person like me you will see the churches of Christ are very consistent. In fact, if everything doesn’t fit perfectly then there is a real problem. You have no authority to say that God accepts both. I have authority from Scripture that commands us to sing but there is no command in the N.T. play or in any way gives us permission add things that God has not commanded. I am not making silly argument. It is truthful argument and one that you cannot disprove from Scripture. If you want use MI in your worship, no one will stop because you have a free will, but you are adding to God’s command, which is sin.

[@jackcollazo]

@@LGministry Where is the command to eat crackers and drink grape juice when in the NT Christians ate meals and drank wine? Where is the command for someone to stand before the group to "lead" singing while waving his hand from side to side? Where is the command to make collections of money to pay for the maintenance of a building when in the NT the collections were only used to provide relief and assistance to the saints? You see, you are not consistent even with your doctrine, much less with the New Testament.

[@Eleina1951]

If a church worships only in relation to what the new or the old testament says it is wrong. The entire Bible from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22 Is God's Word. It all matters. It all counts. You claim there is no authority to use instruments while singing in the Bible? Read Psalm 150!!!

[@LGministry]

Thanks for your comment. All of God's Word is important and should be studied, but we must also understand which covenant we are under. We are not under the old covenant that was for Jews and had it own laws, we are under the new covenant that is for everyone and it has its own laws. Under the new covenant, we are not commanded to play, but to sing. It is that simple.

[@deenoberry3360]

Personally I'm torn about instruments in church on one hand the instruments can be manipulative emotionwise science and my experience proves that but on the other hand not everyone's voice is pleasant some can be a downright distraction and a stumbling block to some connection to God in worship.

[@LGministry]

I can understand what you mean about bad singing being a distraction, but when we understand that our sinigng is comming from the heart and that God is pleased with it, it is easier to look beyond the bad singing. We do it with little kids who have terrible singing voices, yet we praise them and tell them how cute they are. However, usually the singing is decent in most churches.

[@maxxiong]

This is what is called an argument from silence. It is not a logical argument. The verses in question are not commands on how to worship, but rather a command to worship. Also, if a church leader writes to the worship team about the songs to sing next week, it is perfectly reasonable for him to write "we will sing xxx, xxx and xxx next week", without mentioning the word "play", because singing is the primary action in a worship service. It is simply implied in that case. The only command in Eph 5:18-19 is to "be filled with the Spirit". The only command in Col 3:16 is to "let the word of Christ dwell in you". The rest is an explanation. If you apply the same logic you use here to a similarly phrased passage, Matt 28:19-20, you will conclude that we are only to teach to disciples the things Christ taught the 12 apostles. This is, of course, unlikely to be a correct interpretation, as the disciples probably knew the OT already, and only need to be taught how they point to Christ, and saying that we should not teach disciples the facts of the OT would not make sense in the light of 2 Tim 3:16. Additionally, this argument ignores the historical context of the passages. If the churches at the time did not use instruments in worship, then one would reasonable expect letters to not mention instruments. We then have to ask why they didn't -- separation from the worldly religions. If we want to apply the same principles today, the debate should really be about style of music in worship, and not the usage of instruments.

[@LGministry]

I disagree. The Bible is not silent about this issue any more than it was silent about what material Noah was to use for the Ark. When God says He wants Gopherwood (Gen. 6;14) He excluded other words from being used. When God commands us to sing and names the instrument as our heart, then He excludes adding mechanical musical instruments. If you think this is an argument from silence if God doesn't specifically condemn the use of MI, then you will have to apply that to everything. Anything that God doesn't specifically condemn will be permissible, which opens a can of worms that you will never close. If you would simply apply your logic to other topics in the Bible it will help you to see if you argument will stand. If you are honest, you can know that you argument doesn't stand. However, if we follow God's commands as He states them and realize that He wants us to sing, etc then this logic will hold true when applied to the rest of Scripture.

[@maxxiong]

@@LGministry You cannot argue that these are exclusive commands because there is no justification to do so in the context. For example, In Eph 5:18-21, "singing..." is explaining the command "be filled with the spirit". This clearly not an exhaustive list of things one does when being filled with the spirit (eg. it doesn't mention doing miracles. I think we can both agree that the historical context is that these letters were written to churches that did not use instruments. That alone explains why instruments were not mentioned. Why would anyone writing to a church that doesn't use instruments in worship even mention instruments? Don't get me wrong, I can respect the choice of not using instruments. Some better arguments that can be made include: words are the most important part of worship and the instruments are unnecessary, most keyboard instruments are not capable of producing perfect harmony, etc. However, I cannot agree with the supposed biblical arguments that are not very sound.

[@dallascampos]

I worship at a Church of Christ and instrumental music is one topic I am unsure about. My parents tell me that it is fine outside of worship, but should not be used during worship. Would the use of “spiritual songs” in Ephesians 5:18 not include instrumental music? Also, this verse mentions making melody in your heart, and other verses say singing with your heart. However it seems to me that people that sing to instrumental music have so much more heart and soul put into their singing during church. I have attended two baptist church services with a friend but my parents do not like it because I am only 16 and they are afraid that I will want to begin worshipping there. I disagree with the Baptist churches’ “faith only” salvation idea and also “once saved always saved”. To bring this all back around, I sometimes feel that there was more heart in the Baptist church singing than at Churches of Christ. I will never leave the Church of Christ because I believe it teaches true scripture. This is just a topic I am curious about. Thank you!

[@LGministry]

Thanks for your comment. I think you meant: Ephesians 5:19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, If you will notice, it says speaking to one another. This is with the voice. So, the Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs are done with the voice not an instrument. Singing of course is with the voice and the term making melody could be used to point a musical instrument or some kind of instrument, but notice what instruments it points to, it's your heart. So, we are commanded to speak/sing from our heart as we sing these songs to God. There is no room for MI in these verses. God commanded the use of MI in the O.T. 2 Chron. 29:25, so had He wanted us to use them, He would have commanded us to. Have you ever noticed how things were so physical under the O.T. with all the rituals etc and how simple things are under the N.T.? The N.T. focuses more on the heart and being spiritual than all the physical things such as using MI. I think everyone knows that MI are powerful and can stir the emotions, but we have to ask, what does God want, instead of what do I want. One thing you have to keep in mind is that some go to these churches to be emotional. In fact, they feel empty if they don't really get into it or are moved to even jump around. Why this might look inviting and even look like they are really spiritual people, some, (not all) are simply doing what make them feel good and are not necessarily really that concerned about what God thinks. However, I find it sad when I hear about Christians not putting much heart into their singing and worship of God. Perhaps they have lost their zeal and need to be reminded that they are not just singing for the fun of it, but that they are singing praises to God and that words they are singing are also used to edify your fellow Christians. If you get a chance, you might find these two sermons helpful on this topic. kzbin.info/www/bejne/bHzIdJafr61qpbs kzbin.info/www/bejne/baXZpGuQlNyBadk

[@dallascampos]

Cougan Collins Thank you so much this really helped me understand! I will make sure to find the time to watch those sermons!

[@LGministry]

You are welcome. Glad I could be of help.

[@junesalyer547]

dallas campos Christ death set us free from the law. We are free to worship any time with songs, music, in our hearts, wth raised hands, clapping, with dancing. We are free. Christ set us free. Hallelujah.

[@dennishagans6339]

The church of Christ claims to do everything by Biblical authority. I was a visitor at a local Church of Christ here locally where I live, already having accepted Christ and living as a Christian. the pastor asked me if I would like to do a Bible study after Church, I said sure, the Bible study was on Baptism, and more specifically Baptism in Jesus name only. Mat 28:19 *_Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:_* to ignore and not include this verse is to diminish ought from God's word. Psa 138:2 I will worship toward thy holy temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name. Psa 12:6 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Psa 12:7 Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. Deu 4:2, Deu 12:32, Deu 17:11, Ezr 6:11, Psa 119:126, Pro 30:6, Jer 23:36, Jer 26:2, Mat 15:1-9, Mar 7:1-13, Rom 1:25 2, Co 2:17, 2Co 4:2, 2Pe 1:20, 2Pe 1:21, 2Pe 3:16, Rev 22:19. Deu 4:2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish aught from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you. Deu 12:32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it. Deu 17:11 According to the sentence of the law which they shall teach thee, and according to the judgment which they shall tell thee, thou shalt do: thou shalt not decline from the sentence which they shall shew thee, to the right hand, nor to the left. Ezr 6:11 Also I have made a decree, that whosoever shall alter this word, let timber be pulled down from his house, and being set up, let him be hanged thereon; and let his house be made a dunghill for this. Psa 119:126 It is time for thee, LORD, to work: for they have made void thy law. Pro 30:6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. Jer 23:36 And the burden of the LORD shall ye mention no more: for every man's word shall be his burden; for ye have perverted the words of the living God, of the LORD of hosts our God. Jer 26:2 Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the court of the LORD'S house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in the LORD'S house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word: Eze 5:6 And she hath changed my judgments into wickedness more than the nations, and my statutes more than the countries that are round about her: for they have refused my judgments and my statutes, they have not walked in them. Rom 1:25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshiped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. 2Co 2:17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ. 2Co 4:2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. 2Pe 1:20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 2Pe 1:21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. 2Pe 3:16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other Scriptures, unto their own destruction. Rev 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. God does not like His Word to be added too, Diminished aught from, altered in any way, but that is exactly what so many 17th-21st century founders of Churches that became denomination actually did, they taught according to their own knowledge Those are Jesus own words in RED LETTERS and are part of this 2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. That which Jesus spoke concerning Baptism is part of ALL SCRIPTURE 2Ti 3:16 *_All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:_* what part of anything Jesus said that is in our Bible is not scripture and not to be practiced, Luk 6:46 And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say? Luk 6:47 Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: Luk 6:48 He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock. Luk 6:49 But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great. Joh 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. Joh 14:24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me. what part of what Jesus said concerning Baptism is not part of All Scripture, or is not part of His sayings and Words that are to be kept. please do not come back with man's reasoning and man's explanations of the scriptures in order to save your doctrine of Baptism from the plain Word of God. God's Word says it and THAT settles it. God's Word says what it means and means what it says,. we are not to exclude scriptures diminishing aught from God's Word to keep our man-made doctrines that our denominations founder taught. If Scripture is your final authority then make sure that all scriptures that relate to what you are teaching are incorporated, and not just those that the founder taught with his understanding and knowledge.

[@dennishagans6339]

1Co 13:8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 1Co 13:9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 1Co 13:10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. For me that which is perfect is come is the completed Word of God in both old and new testaments. we teach and preach from the OT and there are still prophesies in the OT as yet to be fulfilled, in fact, many are the specific prophesies of Christ in the OT. the only thing that we are not under anymore is the OT law with its sacrifices and ordinances. but we have then recorded as they are a most definite part of God's Word. 2Ti 3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 2Ti 3:15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. the only scriptures Timothy could have known were the OT scriptures which what did Paul say are 2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 2Ti 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. we are not done with the OT save that we are no longer under the law, but it is still there so we can see and learn from it. with all of that said we can use musical instruments because they are still a part of all scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. tell me, how many churches of Christ people have chucked the OT into the garbage bin and only use the NT? the OT is still profitable for doctrine, does no church of Christ person not read Isa 7:14 Isa 53? Psa 23? Psa 51? who does not look for comfort in the Psalms? that which is perfect is come is the completed Word of God consisting of both old and new testament combined together into one book we call the Word of God.

[@LGministry]

You are partly right. We do have the completed word. However, the old was nailed to the cross Col. 2:14. You can't have part of the Law Moses. It's an all or nothing thing. We are under the law of Christ, not the Law of Moses. It's a NEW covenant for a reason. The old one has passed away Heb. 8:13. You would have us spiritually married to two wives, but the the old is dead Rom. 7. We can certainly look at the O.T. for hope and teaches Christ, but we are under the authority of the N.T. in which we are commanded to sing not play. Let's give God what He commanded and not try and bring up the parts we like from the old.

[@MrDecember91]

Great content.

[@LGministry]

+MrDecember91 Thanks!

[@folefacdorian5337]

Cougan Collins you have a WhatsApp number or group I will love to join to post my questions. I am Folefac Dorian from biyamassi ministry Cameroon C.O.C

[@singingbambam]

There is not ONE verse in the new testament that says NOT to use instruments. It was commanded in the old testament, and Jesus made it VERY clear that He was NOT here to change any commandments. So just because they don't talk specifically about playing musical instruments, He never specifically NOT to either. You know what? Come to think of it, He never said to drive a car to church either, do you walk? This doctrine is wrong and worse than that it is dangerous. To put such emphasis on such a small matter such as a piano can and has detailed new Christians than now no longer believe. I would strongly suggest finding something that is more important than musical instruments to put the focus of my denomination on. God bless

[@LGministry]

I disagree. God commands us to sing in the NT. Col. 3:16 and Eph. 5:19. Every example is of Christians singing. When God says what He wants it excludes the other things. You are correct that commanded MI to be used in the O.T. Had it wanted us to us them under the new covenant, He would have commanded us to use them. Jesus fulfilled the old law because He did everything it predicted about Him. However, when He died on the cross He put the Law of Moses to death Col. 2:14; Eph. 2:14. There is a reason the new covenant is called better and the old passed away (Heb. 8:13). You cannot combine two different covenants and make both active, that would be like be married to two wives (Rom. 7). If we take your view, then we need to bring back stoning homosexuals, adulterers, and disobedient children. We need to bring bring back animal sacrifices and every thing else mentioned in the O.T. I always find it interesting how people want to bring back the parts of the O.T. that they like but not those parts they don't like. Notice what Paul said: Galatians 5:3 And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. 4 You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. If you try and use the O.T. Law, then you need to keep it all, but realize that when you go back to the Law of Moses it causes you to fall from grace. Now, you can say that using MI is not a big matter, but I am sure Nadab and Abihu thought it would be a big deal to offer a strange fire. I am sure Uzzah thought it would be a good thing for him to touch the ark. I am sure Ananias and Sapphira thought if they gave most of their money that it would be alright if they said they gave it all. God has given you a freewill. You can do whatever you want to. You can think that adding something God has not commanded to worship Him with will be ok and He won't mind, but I am not going to do it. I am going to give God what He commanded which is to sing. I don't have to have any doubts if I do what He asked. I don't have to worry about my worship being vain worship. If you haven't noticed, when it comes to N.T. worship is no longer about having to Jerusalem or having all those physical rituals they had under the O.T. Instead, everything is focused on the spiritual and the heart. God doesn't need a physical temple because we are the temple. Using MI is something that man wants and enjoys, not God. You also have seem to be confused between generic commands and specific commands. For example, when God tells us to go into all the world, that we is what we are to do, but the how is left up to us. We could walk, we fly, we could use internet. That would not change or add to the command to go. Same thing with the command to sing. We are to sing, but how loud or softly or how many songs we sing are up to us. However, if we add MI to the singing, then we have added something to the singing that makes it more than just singing. Same think can be seen with the Lord's Supper. Most agree that you must use bread and wine. Most understand that you should not add anything to this or substitute it. Yet, the Bible doesn't not say that you can't add or substitute these things. Yet the same people will say you can add MI when this is the exact same thing. So, if you want add MI then logically you must admit that you can change up the LS also. How about we just give God what He commanded us to do under the NC? Can you find any fault in doing that?

[@shebrownsuga]

@@LGministry Both parties are right. It is okay to sing Acapella and it is okay to use instruments. Both are singing and worshipping before the Lord and there is nothing wrong with that. Let's end the debate. You can sing with it without. End of story. No one is right or wrong.

[@potterspoets2323]

We no more need a musical instrument to help us carry a tune in worship than we need the ox to carry the Ark of the covenant! It seemed like a good idea to some & when the ox stumbled; they found out...

[@RobertaS127]

@@LGministry Am I missing something here?? Where does it imply in the first two scriptures you gave that they are instructions for worship? They are instructions for how to go about our daily Christian lives. You are separating these two scriptures and taking them out of context.

[@JacobGlover2023]

So you supposed to sing in your hearts? Not out loud?

[@LGministry]

The heart is the instrument. It would pretty hard to teach and admonish without using your voice or in the case of deaf people signing your singing.

[@stephenkyrie9896]

There is no such thing in a word "sing" or "singing" that only use the "voice only" it's either way you sing thru acapella or with accompaniment of musical instruments, so if i say the heavy metal band Metallica "sings" their song Enter Sandman, it automatically means they "sing" it in acapella? It's either way too if they perform it in acapella or sing it with the use of their musical instruments. In Colossians 3:16 "Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, SINGING to God with gratitude in your hearts." and Ephesians 5:19 "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, SINGING and making melody in your heart to the Lord;" you just assume that those verses means to "sing" in acapella ONLY. If that's your own understanding in the word "sing" or "singing" i have no objection with that and i notice that some of the members of COC just loves to argue over biblical things.

[@LGministry]

We are commanded to sing. The instrument named is the heart. A MI cannot teach, admonish, or speak. However, the voice can. You can could a use modern example of sing like you did, but that is under a different context and usage than that of the N.T. As I have stated, there is not one command or example of the N.T. church using MI. Every early church history shows that Christians didn't MI as part of their worship to God. Also, if you consider the grammar of the verses you listed you will see that most of the words are in plural form and that grammar shows that we are all to sing. Therefore, if the text had in mind playing MI, then everyone would need to sing and play. I get it. MI seem harmless and people like the way they sound, but let's give God what He has commanded instead of adding things that we want.

[@stephenkyrie9896]

@@LGministry yet you can't LITERALLY use heart and play it as a musical instrument, how was that it's just beating and beating repeatedly and making a LITERAL melody? 😂😂😂 and yeah as expected you truly insist that those verses i mention means to "sing" in acapella ONLY. So in your OWN understanding if those verses i mention if it says "singing and making melody with your musical instruments" it means that we should sing and also play musical instruments? 😂😂😂 it doesn't mean that if those verses i mention if it says to "sing", it literally means to "sing acapella only" and you have no concrete evidence that those early christians "sings" in acapella ONLY you just assume it is coz it's just based on your OWN understanding in the word "singing" and you just refuse to accept that "singing" also means with the accompaniment of musical instruments, your just being one sided/biased man in terms of your own understanding of words that's why my fellow atheists just laughs about those things that most COC members (like you) just loves to argue with, if Jesus actually visits your church while your all doing a worship service, do you think He would be happy if He sees that your preaching a false understanding in "singing" while all the members agrees with you? 😂😂😂 i'm not saying your a false teacher, i'm just saying that you just teach those words based on your biased understanding, yet i respect you and your religion. Yeah i read a lot of comments in this video and most of them you can't answer them back coz they roasted you with their answers on your own understanding.

[@LGministry]

@@stephenkyrie9896 There is not a question I cannot answer about this. When it says heart, it is not talking about the blood pump in your chest. It kind of like the expression put your heart into it. We use our minds to understand and know what we are singing. The voice can sing, teach, and admonish a MI CANNOT. You need to read the early church history and you will see that they DID NOT use the MI. You should read what many of the early denomination leaders said about the use of MI. They were against them because they knew they were not to be used. If those verses that Paul gives mean play MI then everyone must play one. You can argue with God and the grammar behind the text if you want, but you will be wrong. I am not concerned about what an atheist thinks. If I were teaching one, I would not begin with the use of MI, I would begin with God and all the evidence that shows that there is a God. I don't have a bias against using MI. In fact, if it were my choice I wouldn't have a problem with them being used. I studied the matter for myself, and the Scriptures are clear, God commanded singing, not playing MI. If you add something God has not commanded you sin and it is vain worship. I will continue to teach and practice what the N.T. says on the matter. If you want to put me in my place, then please show me a command or even an example from N.T. where Christians worshipped God with MI. I can promise you cannot do it. For further study check out these two articles I wrote: www.lgchurchofchrist.com/THE%20TRUTH%20ABOUT%20SINGING.htm www.lgchurchofchrist.com/Answering%20Arguments%20For%20The%20Use%20Of%20Musical%20Instruments.htm

[@stephenkyrie9896]

@@LGministry Your New Testament Bible does not say you SHOULD sing in acapella ONLY, you just want to justify that your understanding should be the TRUTH. However you still refuse to accept other meaning of "singing" and you still insist that it's done thru "our voice" ONLY not with the accompaniment of musical instruments. Jesus does not say anything against musical instruments so why are you forbidding the usage of it in your Church? For example if you "sing" praises in your Church with musical instruments, it means that it's not acceptable to your Lord and just altering worship service? Unless if you just "play" musical instruments in your worship service NOT "singing" to it then that's the right way to say that it's not acceptable to your Lord and just altering worship service coz your Lord orders you to sing (either it's acapella or with musical instruments) i wonder how shallow your understanding is in terms of the words and you just could not refrain to insist to me your OWN understanding, that's why you and your Church are becoming a laughing stock among us atheists 😂😂😂😂😂 and i'm also aware that not all the members of your Church can "sing" all your hymns coz how about those members that are deaf and mute are they obligated to "sing"? And if they don't "sing" they are sinning in your worship service? That's awful and i read those articles that you show to me and still there's no concrete evidence that the early christians don't use musical instruments as part of their worship it's just long empty words proving that playing musical instruments are forbidden in worship (we're it's not) and your Church is just another Christian Denomination that the Campbells established passing their OWN knowledge and understanding in the Bible through generations.

[@LGministry]

Show me one command in the N.T. to sing. Show me one example of them using MI in their worship to God in the N.T. You CANNOT do it. Sing means sing and the instrument is named, which is the heart. What you are wanting to do is apply current application to a first century text, but it won't work. Even with our modern day use of the word sing, it does indicate if one using MI or not. In order to know, you have to be told the specifics, and as I stated, in the N.T. is specifically names the heart. God knows when one is deaf, mute, or sick and cannot sing vocally. However, no disability exist that would allow one to add MI to our worship to God. So, your point falls dead to the floor. The church began in the first century. There is only one church Eph. 4:4. The churches of Christ are mentioned in Scripture Rom. 16:16. If you plant the seed, which is the Word of God, then it produces a Christian, and we are taught throughout the N.T. to obey the will of God. God's Word says sing, so that is what I do. BTW, the church of Christ is not a denomination because it the one church you read about in Scripture. Campbell was just a man that realized we need to get back to the Bible, but the church has existed since A.D. 30 and Campbell had nothing to do with it. I have shown you from Scripture, history, and logic. If you read the article I posted, then you also saw that nearly every denomination that now used MI were opposed to their use in the past. Whether you want to admit to it or not, you cannot find authorization for using MI in our worship to God in the N.T. However, you can find authorization to sing. Case closed.

[@jamesmcfaddin6663]

If God doesn’t give a strict commandment on a certain practice then you are at liberty to do as you please. So your logic is no written permission means prohibition? If that is true let’s carry this over, no written permission to build church buildings, to have a mid week service, to have pews in church, for a church to have a website, revival meeting, etc. All of which the Churches of Christ practice. But this is not the major thing they get wrong, the most important is salvation, we are saved by grace through faith not baptism. Let’s prove all things (1Thess 5) and study to show ourselves approved before God.

[@LGministry]

Really? Based on your reasoning anything not explicitly stated is allowed. So, using crack, meth, and other drugs not specifically mentioned can be done. The list could go on and on in other areas as well. So, I really don't think you would be willing to stand behind what you just said regarding all these we could do if we can do all things not specifically forbidden. God knows we are fully capable of understand that we are stay away from sins mentioned and those that are similar. Galatians 5:19 Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21 envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. Notice the phrase "and the like." You also seem to be confused on specific and general commands. We are taught to preach the word (2 Tim 4:2) and to go and make disciples of the nations (Mt. 28:19). We have specifics here such as preach the Word and to Go, but there is also general commands here because we are not told how to go or by what method to preach. So, within this example we can go by bus or plane or even through the internet. We can preach using various styles and methods because preaching is being done either way. We are also taught to worship together and not forsake the assembly, but we are not told where to gather. Therefore, we can choose to gather at a tree, a barn, a field, someone's home, or even a building like most meet in today. None of these expediencies change the command to gather together. So, you see the problem is your understanding. We are not adding anything to the Word of God, but we are doing those things that are permissible. Adding MI is addition to God's Word because He commanded us to sing not play. He doesn't have to say, "don't do this or that" after He told us what He wants. Make sense? Regarding salvation, we teach what the BIble teaches. We fully understand that without grace none of us could be saved, but grace is God's part an obedient faith is our part. The Bible never says that we are saved by grace or faith ALONE. In fact, it says just the opposite. James 2:14 What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, "Depart in peace, be warmed and filled," but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. 18 But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe-- and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? 23 And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness." And he was called the friend of God. 24 You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. 25 Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way? 26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. Faith alone will never save. Baptism by itself will not save either, but baptism is necessary for salvation. Notice what Peter said: 1 Peter 3:21There is also an antitype which now saves us-- baptism... Even with your reasoning, you would have to say that baptism saves us because it is specifically stated that it does. Another point that you cannot deny is that baptism is said to be FOR the forgiveness of sins (Acts 2:38). NO ONE can be saved while still in the sins, yet you want us to believe that we can be saved grace through faith while still being in our sins. That's impossible my friend. Your sins are not washed away (Acts 22:16) until you are water baptized. We put our faith in working of God to know that when we submit to water baptism that we are dying with Christ and that our old man of sin is done away with and we washed by the power of Jesus' blood at the point (Col. 2:12; ff; Rom. 6:1ff; Rev. 1:5). Our faith and our baptism go hand and hand. The Bible also tells us we me confess Jesus as our Lord (Rom. 10:9-10) and that we must repent (Lk. 13:3), which are 2 more commands you have excluded by saying we are saved by grace through faith. Every example of conversion in the N.T. that has any amount of detail to always has the person being baptized. The biblical evidence is against your teaching. Besides all this, when see the word faith it almost always means an obedient faith and not just mere belief. God has His part, and we have our part. When we obey God's commands we show that we love Him (Jn. 14:15; 1 John 5:3). When we do what God tells us, we don't earn our salvation, we are simply accepting what He has offered us. Read Luke 17:7-10 for a great example of what I am talking about. I hope you will study these things out and consider them because we need to teach and do those things the BIble teaches.

[@jamesmcfaddin6663]

The bible gives a strict commandment to be sober, 1 Timothy 3 and 1 Thessalonians 3, also several other verses. When studying the Bible you have to rightly divide it. In Acts 2:38 ONLY Jews are present no christians and NO gentiles, the question was what must WE do to be saved not personal salvation but a collective salvation from rejecting their messiah. It’s obvious reading the Bible Paul preached another gospel than Jesus and his disciples compare 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 and Matthew 4:23. Also, look at Acts 15. The churches that Paul set up knew nothing about Acts 2:38, read Acts 15 he only gave those Churches three or four commandments. What Paul preached was the gospel of grace. Unless you are one of the 12 tribes in which James writes his book to, I wouldn’t go there for doctrine. Dear friend we need a spiritual baptism not a physical baptism.

[@SamTipton]

Where do you get this stuff? Paul did not preach another gospel. He warned against other gospels! Paul taught baptism. Paul wrote about baptism in several places! Paul was baptized for the remission of sins. There is neither jew nor greek in Christ. You have a rotten teacher sir.

[@dennishagans6339]

I have yet to see the church of Christ all up in arms to remove the chapter and verse numbers from the Bible, where is the authority for those? I have yet to see the church of Christ up in arms about church buildings, as there is no Authority for those either. oh and where do you get the authority for baptistries? I went to a local church of Christ as a visitor for a few Sundays, and the pastor wanted me to stay after and do a short Bible study, I'll give you three guesses on what and the first two don't count if you answered water baptism you win the imaginary cupie doll! this was done for three Sundays and on the third Sunday unbeknownst to me the pastor had taken the liberty to fill the baptistery and wanted to baptize me right after the end of the study on water baptism, there I was on the spot, with no towel, no extra clothes, and cloth seats in my car! I felt like I was a number a statistic just another person to run through your rebaptizing mill, I think Salvation trumps baptism in that you need to accept Christ first and then be Baptized. I did not get baptized and I have never gone back. oh and this Church of Christ has a KITCHEN!!! because that is where we did the water baptism study where is your Authority for the warm water baptistry and the kitchen? you are all about authority for this that and the other thing, but then allow for things for which there is no authority so which is it? which do you really believe and support, authority for everything you do, or only some things you do? where is the authority for chapter and verse numbers in our Bible? where is the Authority for a church building, Paul makes mention of several home churches. where is the authority for a kitchen? or a warm water baptistry? this local church of Christ is all but dead, as when I went there were only 5-6 people including myself. and those that were there were close to my age and older. and I ain't no spring chicken! I have decided that the church of Christ, as a denomination is better called a cult rather than a bonified Christian denomination because of there over the top zeal for water baptism, not actually the baptism itself by immersion but the "correct formula of words said at the baptism" oh my stars! heavens to Betsy! you have taken an ordinance of the Church and turned it into a cultic practice that has to be exactly like you say or you are not going to Heaven! Act 8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. Act 8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? Act 8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Act 8:38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. no mention of the "formula" oh my the sky is falling!!! put on your tin foil hat!!! I am sure some Campbellites are fuming wishing they could go back and correct poor brother Philip for not mentioning the proper "formula" what is it with cults that share the same common denominator? of some aberrant teaching that is in the form of a law that you cannot violate or you cannot be saved? Act 15:1 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, *_Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved._* *_except ye be baptized by our formula ye cannot be saved_* my trusty KJV gives two ways of wording for the Baptism. Mat 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Act 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. baptism can be done with either or of those two. oh but not according to you, you would deny Jesus own words, and stick to your very strict formula of Jesus Name Only! CULT CULT CULT that is what you are. and those are Jesus own Words in Red Letter text, oh and there is no Authority for the red letters either. you have taken authority and turned it into Pharisaical law " thou shalt have authority for the drinking fountain, thou shalt have authority for this that and the other thing! Mat 23:24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. churchofchristatoakland.com/articles/2012/01/18/kitchens-and-fellowship-halls lavistachurchofchrist.org/LVarticles/KitchensAndFellowshipHallsWhatWasTheIssue.html by the way, in the New Testament Church that Y'all claim to be the remnant of, most churches were in peoples homes, question? did they have a place in the home to prepare meals? How many times Did Jesus go to eat in someone's house where He was teaching and food was being served at the same time. Luk 10:38 Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. Luk 10:39 And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. Luk 10:40 But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. Luk 10:41 And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: Luk 10:42 But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. I think your ministers need to set aside a few trillion dollars for the building of a proper time machine to go back and tell all those with Churches in their homes, that they have no Biblical Authority for a kitchen in their CHURCH!!! The Heresy of heresies!!! they had a place to prepare food in their Churches unthinkable by modern Campbellites!!! Rom 16:5 Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. 1Co 16:19 The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. Col 4:15 Salute the brethren which are in Laodicea, and Nymphas, and the church which is in his house. Phm 1:2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellow soldier, and to the church in thy house: how dare they have a church in their home where food is being prepared and served, such as the Communion Bread and fruit of the vine. oh, the heresy! they are to be disfellowshipped immediately!!!!

[@mchin1716]

This is False teaching in its worse But prayer always changes things!

[@LGministry]

Instead of just stating your opinion, why not show from Scripture why my lesson is false?

[@jacquepoyner1791]

Use scripture to back up your statement!

[@nicholighkun]

God's command in II Chronicles 29:25 is independent of the old covenant. If God wanted instruments used in worship yesterday, but not today, He would have explicitly stated such, it would not be implied by a verse out of context. There is also not seen in the NT meetings in dedicated buildings other than peoples houses, and synagogues, yet you do exactly this. You have removed an aspect of what God has commanded, based on the absence of it's mention in the NT. If anything, the absence of the mention of instruments in the NT proves that nothing has changed regarding them. You use the words of men, including the abomination of the Catholic church to prove this unholy doctrine, and you say that it is godly, and Scriptural. God does not change - Malachi 3:6. If He meant to remove instruments from worship, He would have said as much. Have you not read when Elisha the prophet called for a minstrel and as the minstrel played the Hand of the LORD came upon Him (II Kings 3:15)? And how prophets of old prophesied with their instruments (I Chronicles 25:1-3)? Or shall we look to the future in the book of Revelation (5:8, 14:2 & 15:2)? And we can't forget the command that you flippantly throw away from II Chronicles 29:25, a command that is independent of the Old Covenant. God does not change. If He wanted musicians playing yesterday, and He does not change, then He wants them today. He would not have removed them without explicitly saying as much. This is dangerous doctrine, bordering on heresy. You are both adding to and taking away from the Scriptures, and thereby removing an office that God has not removed. You have diminished the praise of God in a way that He would have explicitly stated, had He meant for it to be done. You have stood on the words and traditions of men in order to back up your false doctrine. Repent. This is much more serious than you realize. You are standing on holy ground with your shoes laced tight.

[@LGministry]

You wrote a lot, but you lost me with your first sentence, which is not true and completely destroys the rest of what you wrote. You don't seem to understand what a covenant is or how it changes. We are under a NEW covenant. That is a NEW agreement between us and God. Paul spend a good of deal of time writing about not going back to the Law of Moses and the old covenant. If you are going to bring one thing over from the OC then you need to bring everything over including such things as stoning disobedient children, homosexuals, and adulterers. God commands us to sing in the N.T. There is not one example or command of the church using MI. I will stick with those facts and worship God in spirit and truth, which is NOT dangerous.

[@nicholighkun]

@@LGministry The Old Covenant was by Moses, not David - Hebrews 8:9. David's command was independent of Moses covenant. And writing off all of what I wrote because you disagree with that statement is dangerous. Do you wish to know the truth, or do you wish to confirm what you already believe? If you wish to know the truth, you will examine all of what I say, because it is straight from Scripture. Be careful not to harden your heart my friend, because God will further you along in that endeavor, if you choose that route. David didn't make a covenant for instruments, he made a command, as did his prophet and seer, and by their words, this was a command from God. Also, I remind you, there ARE instruments used in the new testament, please see Revelation 5:8, 14:2 & 15:2. This doctrine is dangerous, as it diminishes God's worship, and it removes musicians God-given calling to use their talents to worship Him. You speak as if this is a matter of preference, but it is not. Your doctrine is placing a shame and guilt upon all those under your influence for doing something that God has commanded. You are indeed in danger. When your preferences and personal convictions are taught as doctrine, you are in great danger, and when your precepts of man are actively diminishing God's worship, and removing the calling on many lives, you are in great danger my friend. Do you want to know the truth, or do you want to confirm what you already believe? You will find which ever one you are looking for. And again I say, God does not change (Malachi 3:6), if He wanted musicians yesterday, He wants them today. And to seal it up please see your own two verses for confirmation. The word Psalm, used in both verses is defined as such: in Strong's it is defined as "a set piece of music i.e. sacred ode (accompanied with the voice, harp or other instrument)" And in Thayer's Greek lexicon it is defined as "a striking, twanging; spec. a striking the chords of a musical instrument." God doesn't change, if He wanted it yesterday, He wants it today, unless He specifies otherwise. Revelation features instruments being employed in worship in three places, and even the word Psalm in your two verses reveals the inclusion of instruments. Remove this burden from your flock, or else God may come to you soon, and remove you from them.

[@matthewpharis1544]

Jesus said I did not come to do away with the law but Fulfill it

[@stewbab8784]

does worship only take place at the church building ?can I listen to Christian radio songs with instruments ?

[@LGministry]

No. Listening is different than singing and directing your words to God. Some will not listen to the same songs they sing in church because they don't want to blend the two or be thinking about the musical instruments that are being used, which is understandable. Since worship has a beginning and end, it is not sinful if we walking through a store that starts playing some Christian music that has musical instruments. We are not sinning if we a country music song comes on that sings about how great God is. One thing is clear. When we are offering up songs to teach and admonish one another and to praise God, they need to be sung and not played.

[@stewbab8784]

so are you saying its a sin for me to sing along with Christian songs on the radio ?some of the songs on the Christian stations are very uplifting to me and I'd rather listen and sing with those songs than some of the other stuff on the radio .

[@stewbab8784]

hello ?

[@LGministry]

KZbin's comments section is hard to follow. I wasn't ignoring your question, I just didn't see it. Comments get buried and lost. I wish they had a better system in place. If you will reread what I wrote, I never addressed your second question of singing along with these songs. This can be a complicated issue because it depends on your intent. If you are singing along with the intent to worship God, then yes, I think it would be wrong, but if you singing along with the intent of just singing without any kind of worship to God, then I suppose it would be acceptable, but it would be walking a fine line. The other thing you must consider is that this music you sing along with was written and sung as worship music. If you had a passenger, he or she may get confused about what you are doing as he or she cannot know your intent. I don't know if my answer is helpful or not, but when it comes to issues like this, I personally choose the safest route because not singing along with such music eliminates any doubt. You have free will, you can do what you want, I would suggest you study this matter out yourself and determine what you think about this issue based on Scripture. It will never be an issue for me because I have no desire to sing alone with Christian type music put to music. There are many great Christain songs that you can listen to that has no MI and you could sing along with those with no doubts.

[@stewbab8784]

yes, good idea> I'm going to study the Bible and see what God says about t. thanks

[@stacycraft6585]

We use a musical instrument it's the piano!

[@LGministry]

I am sorry to hear that.

[@crazymarko1278]

That's great, you're not doing anything wrong. We have not been given rules for ceremony worship like the Children of Israel and Jews had. Worship is now in our hearts.

[@Pro1938ftc3ch]

Why don't they use electric guitar

[@Enjoy143Gaming]

@@LGministry hello brother can u please explain me more

[@iskagetti]

Im a church of christ and the person at the top olays the organ

[@LGministry]

I don't understand what you are saying.

[@iskagetti]

the person at the top plays the organ

[@LGministry]

Who is at the top? Who plays an organ?

[@gregor2.038]

I love your video and it is so true are preacher said we don't have instarments because we have no prof in the NT of some one doing it

[@drdigalofficial6316]

No where in the New Testament it is banned To use Musical Instruments.neither it is commanded nor Banned,We can use it.

[@rogersamsamsy8973]

Im pretty sure we use a piano or an organ

[@LGministry]

If you do, you adding to the Word of God.

[@johnjones8494]

Nowhere in the New Testament does it say to have stained glass windows or pass around a brass plate but that seems to be the norm. Looks like you’re wearing a dress shirt and tie.. maybe you should be wearing a robe and sandals.

[@dennishagans6339]

Instruments in the old testament and Instruments in Heaven, but no instruments in the New Testament, kind of an odd sandwich don't you think? having them before the New Testament and having them after the New Testament but not during the New Testament. before and after but not during...Ya, I am not buying it. Rev 15:2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. That is us, who got victory over the beast. so ya music in the OT and music in Heaven but not in the NT? before and after but not during, that just does not make any sense. why there is a before and an after but not during. I also do not hold with baptismal regeneration, it is the Blood of Christ that washes away our sins. only the Blood of Christ atones for our sins, not water baptism.

[@LGministry]

The musical instruments used in Revelation are used symbolically. Even if you could find evidence for your sandwich consider that marriage between man and woman is in the O.T. and the N.T. but in heaven, there is no marriage between us. So, if we use your logic, then it must be that there actually is marriage in heaven even though the Word says there is not. No doubt, Jesus' blood washes away or sins Rev 1:5. However, the point that we come in contact with the power of His blood is water baptism, which is why Peter said baptism is FOR the forgiveness of your sins Acts 2:38 and said that is SAVES 1 Pet. 3:21.

[@dennishagans6339]

​@@LGministry You have no reason to say that musical instruments in Heaven are symbolic other than if they were not symbolic you would be faced with musical instruments in the before and after situation that I was making reference to. The book of Revelation may have some symbology in it, I cannot be sure, so I am not going to say yea or nay because there is a very serious warning to consider Rev 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: Rev 22:19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. The jw's claim they are the 144,000 Revelation 7:4-8 they are adding themselves into that passage when it names explicitly the Tribes Of Israel that make up the 144,000. If you claim the harps are symbolic and they are not then you have placed yourself in jeopardy of the adding to/taking away clause in Rev 22:18-19 I am just a layperson and I know better than to make such a statement about the book of Revelation that I do not know 100% for sure my statement is correct. As for your using the Marriage of man and woman in the OT and in the NT but not in Heaven, we are specifically told by Jesus Mat 22:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God. Mat 22:30 For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven. We are specifically told by Jesus that there will not be marriages between man and woman, but there is the marriage of the bride (us) to the bridegroom (Jesus). Gen 4:21 And his brother’s name was Jubal: he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ. We are told to praise God with instruments in the OT, where do you think the abilities to learn and play musical instruments come from? and the purpose was for praising God. David who wrote many of the Psalms wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost just as every biblical writer did. Psa 33:2 Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings. Psa 33:3 Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise. Psa 43:4 Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. Psa 68:25 The singers went before, the players on instruments followed after; among them were the damsels playing with timbrels. Psa 81:1 To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm of Asaph, SING aloud unto God our strength: make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. Psa 81:2 Take a psalm, and bring hither the timbrel, the pleasant harp with the psaltery. Psa 81:3 Blow up the trumpet in the new moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn feast day. Psa 149:1 PRAISE ye the LORD . Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise in the congregation of saints. Psa 149:2 Let Israel rejoice in him that made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their King. Psa 149:3 Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp. Psa 150:1 PRAISE ye the LORD . Praise God in his sanctuary: praise him in the firmament of his power. Psa 150:2 Praise him for his mighty acts: praise him according to his excellent greatness. Psa 150:3 Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Psa 150:4 Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Psa 150:5 Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Psa 150:6 Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD . Praise ye the LORD . There are 55 verses in the Psalms prefaced "To the chief Musician" Rev 5:8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. Rev 14:1 AND I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. Rev 14:2 And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: Rev 14:3 And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. Rev 15:2 And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. Harps are seen and in use 3 times in the book of Revelation, and I do not believe they are symbolic at all. Interpretation is handed down from the founder of every church that would later become full-blown denominations, whatever the founder taught that he\she believed the Word of God taught became the foundational doctrines of those churches. The Campbells and Barton W. Stone were no exception they taught what they believed God's Word said. Doctrine is handed down by TRADITION to the next generation who by TRADITION pass it on and so on and so forth. Mat 15:1-9, Mar 7:1-13 Get the foundation wrong and what is to be passed on will be wrong. And that is precisely why there are 33,000 different denominations, sects, cults, and non-denominational churches, they were ALL started by a founder/s that taught what they BELIEVED the Word of God said rather than what the Word of God actually says. and they just have to stick some interpretation in there. What really bothers me, is when I see anyone who names the name of Christ, use interpretation and explanations, to change what the Word of God plainly says into the opposite or something else to make their pet doctrine stand, even going as far as to claim certain verses do not belong in the Bible, and wouldn't you know it, the verses they claim do no belong are the verses that if left alone give their pet doctrine a fit. People will change the word of God to maintain their received doctrines. because the doctrine of the church must be saved at all cost as that is what the church was built on umpteen generations ago. and we can't change the founder's teaching or we would no longer be that church anymore.

[@dennishagans6339]

@@LGministry I will acknowledge this much that I believe the churches of Christ to be closer to the truth of God than all of the rest. I went to a local one for a few weeks and my first visit the pastor wanted to do a bible study after service, it was on water baptism and Jesus name only, and that baptism is required for salvation. we went through some little booklet and on the last day he had taken the liberty to full their baptismal tank with warm water intending to baptize me after the end of the study that day, he put me on the spot. I refused and have not been back, I found out later that the Jesus name only must be something particular to that church. But as I said I believe the church of Christ to be the closest to the true church, of those I know anything about, the main denominations. I do assemble myself in a local church, but do not hold with everything they hold just because I assemble myself there. Heb 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

[@davebowser3161]

your taking your scriptures out of context ; none of the back up no instruments they don't even back up singing . All them say singing in your heart ect which isn't singing aloud at all . That is singing in your head ( heart ) . So according to your reasoning you can't sing either only in your heart which isn't aloud . Using other people to back up your point like some catholic guy is a mute point . If your gonna take him as your authority are you gonna sprinkle when u baptise also ? Or pick and choose what to follow by him . I will pray that God opens your eyes .

[@LGministry]

Sorry, but you what you are saying will not work. 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. Eph 5:19 speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, There is no way you teach and admonish/warn or speak to one another by simply thinking it. That won't work my friend. Please notice that the heart is where the melody is. In other words, the heart strings are instrument and then sing what is on your heart with your voice. I did not use any man as my authority. There is a big difference between point out the history of the church and showing what they believed early on and saying someone has authority. Only the Word of God is my authority, and just showed you that you interpretation is flawed.

[@davebowser3161]

I am glad God is your authority ; what I am saying is the verses you did pick didn't support what your trying to make them say . You have to look at the context that the statement was made for . not sure how you get my interpretation is flawed . Did you read before and after the verse u snatched out of the bible to try to make your point . That is 1 of 2 reasons I stopped attending the church of christ because they take verses out of context and swear it is everyone else . Not saying all churches of christ I know ones that do use music . So does that mean they are going off to hell ?

[@davebowser3161]

The letter Paul had written to the church wasn't talking about singing or choir practice it was about intruction in the church . Perhaps you need to read your version a bit more closely

[@dennishagans6339]

@@davebowser3161 That is what cults do they run off into la-la land with their interpretations handed down by their founders because everyone knows that the founders were right and got everything right about what they taught. and if you believe that I have some property on oppsite sides of a River in New York, for sale, don't worry about the bridge, they can build another Brooklyn Bridge somewhere else. but that is what cultists do, they tend to stain at gnats and swallow camels!