From the Elder's Pen 200 PIANOS Past/Future Articles

An elderly man who had led singing for many years in small country congregations went to the big city to visit family. While there, he had the chance to lead a group of about 350 on Sunday morning.  Later that day as they ate lunch, his nephew asked him what it looked like from the pulpit with all those people out there.  He replied, “Son, I saw 200 pianos.”  The elderly song leader went on to explain how disappointing it was to see all those people not singing.

While most members of the church would still protest the use of a piano, many violate the same law of God by stoically warming a pew with tightly clenched lips while the praises of God are being sung.  Many members will turn to Eph. 5:18, 19 and Col. 3:16, 17 to show Bible authority for singing.  The addition of mechanical instruments in worship to God is then condemned, citing the lack of authority for such.  While these things are true and must always be taught “lest they slip”, we MUST realize that these same passages COMMAND singing in worship to God.  Anyone capable of “making a joyful noise” who fails to do so is committing sin and is in violation of God’s pattern just like a person who adds the piano.

Brethren, we must understand that ALL of God’s commands MUST be obeyed.  When we refuse to obey the command to sing because we feel uncomfortable or self-conscious, we place our own pride above the will of God.  When one chooses to add the instrument in worship to God he places his own judgment and will, above the will of God.  Both are sin.

I implore you brethren to consider these things and resolve yourself to submit to all of God’s laws.  Until we do, song leaders across our land will continue to see 200 PIANOS in the assemblies of the Lord’s people.

Written by Paul Meacham, Jr.
Submitted by Charlie Turner, Elder