Ministry that
is Sounding Brass-
I Corinthians 13:1 states, “Though I speak with
the tongues of men and angles, and have not charity, I am become as sounding
brass, or a tinkling symbol.”
The
sounding brass (echo chalkos-- 2278, 5475) was no doubt referring to a series
of hollow brass vases found in niches in Greek theaters. They were tuned chromatically to amplify the
actor’s and singer’s voices. However
these vases gave off an unnatural sound.
Likewise, the tinkling or clanging symbols (alalazo kumbalon—214, 2950)
produced a clanging hollow sound. So our
musical ministry, unless it is bathed in prayer, humility, and agape love is of
little effectiveness.
The
musician who makes the loudest noise is not necessarily the most spiritual or
effective music minister. Enthusiasm is
no substitute for the dunamis of the spirit.
Likewise, the most astute performer or director does not always have the
most efficacious music ministry. Church
musicians and worshipers in general want to be effectively led in worship. However, one must not only lead with skill
but also with spiritual passion. With the
power (dunamis) of the Holy Spirit, religious musicing becomes a hollow empty
musical offering.
Song for
the day—“Love divine all Loves
Excelling” by Charles Wesley
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