Eye Opener...

Eye openers can come from strange sources. Some time ago, I stumbled upon the Introduction of our 1991 Baptist Hymnal. I was shocked to read the following: "In the year 1690, Baptist churches in England were embroiled in a divisive controversy. At issue was the question of whether to permit congregational singing in the worship services."

Can you believe it? At that time, tradition was for only one or a few singers to offer praise on behalf of the people. The idea of the entire congregation joining together in song was unheard of. What we take for granted today was at that time a new idea, met with hostility and distrust. I can hear it now. "Thou hast not performed it in this manor prior." Tradition had taken over, and biblical singing as enjoyed by the early church was a foreign concept.

The following year (1691), progressive pastor Benjamin Keach, published one of the first hymnals. In the appendix of this new worship tool, he wrote the following: "'Tis a hard case that any Christian should object against that duty which Christ and His Apostles, and the Saints of all ages in their publick assemblies were found in the practice of it; but 'tis no easie thing to break people of a mistaken notion, and an old prejudice taken up against the precious truth of Christ. The Lord will, I hope satisfy all His people about this heavenly ordinance in due time, and they shall not call it a Carnal nor a Formal thing anymore."

We scoff at narrow minded people such as those who did not allow congregational singing. But we are no better. We like the comfortable, and new methods tend to make us nervous. Of course, everything we do must be measured against God's Word, and just because it's fresh and innovative doesn't mean it's right. However, we must take care to understand the difference between "preference" and "conviction". My preference must make room for authentic, God inspired methods of sharing the Gospel message. What spoke volumes yesterday may not necessarily communicate today, and the bible is filled with fresh expressions of the ancient truths of God.

Isn't it nice to know that new ideas have been making people uncomfortable for centuries. It happens to each of us at one time or another. Change can be a good thing, and when measured against God's Word, I don't have to avoid or resist it. I can look at the experiences of others and know that growing pains are part of God's plan.