Singing with the Understanding

Quarter notes, key signatures, fermatas, and mezzo-forte symbols are just a few of the mysterious markings we encounter upon the pages of our songbooks. Through man’s years of melodic discovery and advancement, a working notation system has been devised. I am very grateful for my brothers and sisters in the faith who command a working knowledge of this complex musical language. The remainder of us will have to be content, at least for the time being, with attempting to stay on the proper verse.

Although there is much to gain from the ability to read music, Christians can rejoice that an understanding of musical symbols is not required to be pleasing to the Lord. However, there is a type of understanding which Christians must have when we worship the Lord in song.

Paul instructed the brethren of Corinth to desire the gift of prophecy rather than the gift of tongues. Paul’s concern is the edification of the church body, and in that regard, those with the gift of prophecy were greater (1 Cor. 14:5). Unless you are speaking in a language and in a way that can be understood, how could anyone make use of your words? You may as well talk to yourself (1 Cor. 14:9). The ideas carried by words are quickly discarded when the translation is absent. The message is obscured and chaos results like mixed signals on a battlefield (1 Cor. 14:8). Paul resolves to steer clear of this confusion by praying and singing with understanding (1 Cor. 14:15).

Furthermore, when the songs are in another language, no listener can say whether they agree with the message of the song (1 Cor. 14:16). Christians must take pains not to sing false doctrine! It would be more beneficial to have one or two true words with understanding rather than millions of beautiful unknown words (1 Cor. 14:17-19). Faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom. 10:17). When you sing a line in a song, can you recognize which scripture provides its basis? Some songbooks even provide book, chapter, and verse references to aid us.

It’s clear that praising the Lord is something to be celebrated among Christians, and that singing is a vital part of worship (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). Through this God-approved means, we teach and admonish one another. The words are intelligible, distinct, and their meanings contemplated upon. This is proper. The uplifting, faith-charging power of a song service quickly fades when the focus shifts to pretty-sounding vocalizations, empty phrases, or meaningless claps and hums. The lips of God’s people must declare God’s truth (Psa. 138:1-2; Heb. 13:15).

Perhaps singing is that part of the worship service in which physical imperfection is most on display. And yet there is spiritual perfection and great beauty exhibited by the unity of Christian voices and hearts. Loyalty to Christ and His word is key! If we sing with understanding in our worship, and follow God’s will in all things, then God is truly among us (1 Cor. 14:25).