We do not nearly realize what a rich blessing we have in spiritual songs. The collection of
high-quality musical poetry set to music which we use in worship to God is indeed an amazing
resource. In the song book we currently use are 748 spiritual songs, and we also have many others
not in this particular book. These songs cover a wide range of spiritual topics, and have been
written by some of the world’s most capable composers over several hundred years.
Some of the songs have been in use for hundreds of years. For example, The Doxology,
(“Praise God, from whom all Blessings Flow”) was written in 1674. A Mighty Fortress is Our God
was composed in 1529, almost 500 years ago!
Some of our songs have been used around the world in countless settings and on various
occasions. Many have been used in performances before vast audiences, and, of course, many of
them continue to be used in church assemblies for regular worship to God.
We have available to us songs of praise and devotion, Christian life and work, prayer,
invitation, redemption and salvation, and practically every other Bible theme imaginable. The
musical scores for many of these are composed in four-part harmony, with the highest quality
mechanical features. In most cases, they are beautiful in both pitch and range of movement. The
words to most are thoughtful and impressive, stirring our deepest feelings and emotions, thus
enabling us to truly worship from the depths of our soul, and with all of our heart.
But most impressive of all is the ability of these songs to aid us in worshiping God by
“teaching and admonishing one another,” (Colossians 3:16). One who sings and carefully listens
to others singing these songs cannot help but be drawn near to God and His people.
Beginning this evening, and continuing on many Sunday evenings throughout this year, our
intention is to look carefully at several of these spiritual songs, and to draw important, spiritual
lessons therefrom. Generally speaking, we will focus on one song per sermon, looking for Biblical
truths and lessons which will benefit us all. In the course of the series, we will also attempt to
understand better the role of music in worship, the importance of understanding the words we are
singing, and improving our ability to distinguish scriptural from unscriptural songs. I hope this
sermon series will also enhance our appreciation for the amazing collection of songs we often take
for granted.
The title of each song that we intend to study will be noted in the “Sermons Today” area of
the Bulletin (see page 5). I’m asking our song leaders to kindly lead that particular song
immediately before each weekly sermon in order to get the words and concepts before us as we
study together. As always, please think carefully about the words to these songs as we sing them.
Hopefully, after our study together they will have even deeper meaning and significance in our
lives, and we will all appreciate them even more. I look forward to our Sunday evenings together
and these sermons in song.
