Planning and Leading Worship
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The use of musical instruments to create a bedlam of noise,
shocks the senses and perverts the worship—The Holy Spirit never
reveals itself in such methods, in such a bedlam of noise. This is an
invention of Satan to cover up his ingenious methods for making of
none effect the pure, sincere, elevating, ennobling, sanctifying truth
for this time. Better never have the worship of God blended with music
than to use musical instruments to do the work which last January
was represented to me would be brought into our camp meetings. The
truth for this time needs nothing of this kind in its work of converting
souls. A bedlam of noise shocks the senses and perverts that which if
conducted aright might be a blessing. The powers of satanic agencies
blend with the din and noise, to have a carnival, and this is termed the
Holy Spirit’s working.—
Selected Messages 2:36
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Congregational singing
Organize a group of the best singers to lead congregational
singing—Another matter which should receive attention, both at our
camp meetings and elsewhere, is that of singing. A minister should not
give out hymns to be sung, until it has first been ascertained that they
are familiar to those who sing. A proper person should be appointed
to take charge of this exercise, and it should be his duty to see that
such hymns are selected as can be sung with the spirit and with the
understanding also. Singing is a part of the worship of God, but in the
bungling manner in which it is often conducted, it is no credit to the
truth, and no honor to God. There should be system and order in this
as well as every other part of the Lord’s work. Organize a company of
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the best singers, whose voices can lead the congregation, and then let
all who will, unite with them. Those who sing should make an effort
to sing in harmony; they should devote some time to practice, that they
may employ this talent to the glory of God.—
The Review and Herald,
July 24, 1883
.
Singing is as much an act of worship as is prayer—The proper
training of the voice is an important feature in education, and should
not be neglected. Singing, as a part of religious service, is as much an
act of worship as is prayer.—
Patriarchs and Prophets, 594
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