00863 – Church Music is Theological Expression
Hustad, Donald

I believe we should consider church music basically to be THEOLOGICAL expression—part of the dialogue between God and worshipers.

With few exceptions, music in worship is coupled with important words. For this reason, we should choose literature—for instance, hymns and choir pieces—in which the music “fits” the text.

True, good words may be supported and enhanced by a variety of music. But the music, or dance, or any other art, must be the SERVANT of theological truth, not the master.

This is an unchanging principle in this day of right-brain, aesthetic-emotional preoccupation in worship: God must be worshiped in full theological truth.

from True Worship: Reclaiming the Wonder and Majesty

art(s) | choose(s) | church music | dance(s) | dialogue | literature | music | right(s) | servant(s) | theology | truth(ful) | worship(ed) | worshiper(s)