Emphasis in Congregational Singing
Choir and Congregational Singing—In the meetings held, let a
number be chosen to take part in the song service. And let the singing
be accompanied with musical instruments skillfully handled. We are
not to oppose the use of instrumental music in our work. This part of
the service is to be carefully conducted; for it is the praise of God in
song.
The singing is not always to be done by a few. As often as pos-
sible, let the entire congregation join.—
Testimonies For The Church
9:144
(1909).
The Song Service—The singing should not be done by a few only.
All present should be encouraged to join in the song service.—
Letter
157, 1902
.
Approach Harmony of Heavenly Choir—Music forms a part of
God’s worship in the courts above. We should endeavor in our songs of
praise to approach as nearly as possible to the harmony of the heavenly
choirs. I have often been pained to hear untrained voices, pitched to
the highest key, literally shrieking the sacred words of some hymn of
praise. How inappropriate those sharp, rasping voices for the solemn,
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joyous worship of God. I long to stop my ears, or flee from the place,
and I rejoice when the painful exercise is ended.
Those who make singing a part of divine worship should select
hymns with music appropriate to the occasion, not funeral notes, but
cheerful, yet solemn melodies. The voice can and should be modulated,
softened, and subdued.—
The Signs of the Times, June 22, 1882
.
With Heart and Understanding—I saw that all should sing with
the spirit and with the understanding also. God is not pleased with
jargon and discord. Right is always more pleasing to Him than wrong.
And the nearer the people of God can approach to correct, harmonious
singing, the more is He glorified, the church benefited, and unbelievers
favorably affected.—
Testimonies For The Church 1:146
(1857).
Without Spirit and Understanding—Many are singing beautiful
songs in the meetings, songs of what they will do, and what they mean
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