Instrumental Music

Some churches teach that the musical instrument was never used during the early years of the church. They use two scriptures that they believe promote this idea. The Greek text is very important in this matter. You can look up these verses in your Bible, but here are the two verses with every major word replaced with Strong’s Concordance definitions.

Ephesians 5:19 Speaking to yourselves in a set piece of music or sacred ode (accompanied with the voice, harp or other instrument; a “psalm”) and celebrate or sing non-carnal songs, singing and playing on a stringed instrument in your heart to the Lord;

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of the anointed inhabit in you copiously in all wisdom; teaching (learning) and putting in mind (caution or reprove gently) one another a set piece of music, that is, a sacred ode (accompanied with the voice, harp or other instrument; a “psalm”) and celebrate non-carnal songs, singing with graciousness in your hearts to the Lord.

A bit extreme perhaps, but as you can see the Greek does not support the concept that musical instruments are a sin to use. It is also never found in any list of sins.

James 5:13 Is any among you afflicted? Let him pray. Is any cheerful? Let him sing psalms (play on a stringed instrument).

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