Such a great question.

For a long, long time, I could not accept others who worshiped with instruments. I was taught that instrumental music in worship was wrong, and I accepted that teaching. After a congregtaion I attended was “taken over” by several members who wanted to throw out the old church of Christ hermenutic (Command, Example, Necessary Inference,) and I heard several sermons on essentials versus traditions, I studied the issue on my own and changed my opinion.

While I think that we in the a capella churches of Christ most likely got the music question right, I don’t feel that we can legitamatly bind that belief on others and disfellowship those that use the instrument. If we are incorrect, it would be wrong of us to deny others the use of the instrument.

I still attend an a capella church, and have no intention of changing. I have attended services at an instrumental church, and I was uncomfortable the entire time, but I don’t think that they are bad or wrong for worshiping God with an instrument.

There are, however, plenty of people who will not have fellowship with those that use instrumental music, and, furthermore, there are still people who believe that instrumental music is a matter of salvation. They believe that the use of the instrument will condemn them.

While I don’t think a significant portion of the a capella churches of Christ would agree with that point of view anymore, and many would not disallow fellowship with those that use instruments, neither will they challenge anyone on this subject as they do not want to create a split in the church.

I hope that helps to answer your question, even if it is meandering.

-Clarke

I neglected this thread for a few days and come back to find a very interesting conversation.

I have a question regarding non-instrumental convictions. I understand and appreciate that many people cannot worship with instruments with a clear conscience. Can these people accept others as Christian who do worship with musical instruments, if that is the only matter of disagreement? Or is my willingness to worship with instruments a show-stopper for fellowship?

Thanks
Alan

I can’t say that any of us really have been building bridges and unity…. so don’t feel bad.

The great part is that we have the opportunity to do so now. The fact that we are having this conversation at all is a wonderful thing.

-Clarke