Hymnal Theology: Part One

     On James Dobson's Focus on the Family radio show, a statement was made in reference to how easy it is for many Christians to believe what the novel, The DaVinci Code teaches. Why is this so? Why do so many professing Christians (and many non-Christians, too) believe what that book of historical fiction says? Kevin's Komment: the book should be referenced as hysterical fiction! The guest (whoever he was) said that modern churches do not have THEOLOGY in their hymns that the old hymnbooks do. This is what contributes to the easy belief of the "code." I'm not focusing this article on the novel, but on our hymnbooks.
      I've visited a few churches away from my home church. Many times, they practiced congregational singing by memorizing easy choruses, or perhaps had a view-screen with which to display the lyrics as they sang. More often than not, they had a band playing live music, some of whom made it plain that they were there to entertain. I've often noticed that this display of musicianship and words seems to be a little trite. After about 5 rounds of "Praise the LORD for HE is great" and "Our GOD is an awesome GOD", its obvious that something is missing.
      What is missing, you ask? Where's the blood that was shed for you and me? Where's the song that not only teaches that the blood of JESUS is shed, but also WHY we need the blood? (see Romans 5.6; 3.23, John 3.16; 1 Peter 1.18-23) How about the songs that do praise the LORD, but glorify HIM for not only CREATION itself, but also for taking the time to die on Calvary's Cross, to do what no other can do: provide an Atonement (covering) for my sins and your sins?
      That's not all! Many songs teach us that we are to preach and witness for the LORD JESUS CHRIST, songs that remind us to pray and seek after the face of GOD, daily. Songs that point us to JESUS, not just as Saviour, not just as the Redeemer, not just as the Creator, but songs that point to HIM because HE cares for us! (examples: Does Jesus Care; Noone Ever Cared For Me Like JESUS).
      I'm not saying that the old hymnals are inspired in the same way that the Bible is (Kevin's Komment: specifically, the King James/Authorized Version) There is, however, much to be gained for those who have access to a good Bible-doctrinally based hymnal. On the other hand, if all you get is twenty minutes or so of hopping around and waving your arms in the air while shouting Hallejah, I believe that you will go home well excercised, but missing out on something vital.
     More next time!