This book employs a methodology that I have found helpful in dealing with other topics. This procedure is to assemble the New Testament texts on the topic and interpret them, then check this interpretation against usage in early Christian literature outside the New Testament, and finally to examine the doctrinal considerations to determine if the interpretation rests on solid biblical theology. Rather than gathering quotations from secondary literature, my approach is to read the source documents in the original and present the texts in their context. At the time of first edition of the book, mine was the fullest collection of historical statements on early church music readily available. Other studies since that time are largely supportive of the historical facts presented in my work, even if the authors do not consider the evidence normative for today. My conclusion is that the practice of unaccompanied congregational singing rests on good biblical, historical and doctrinal grounds.

Does the Bible justify instrumental music for Christian worship?In 2006, advocates for the use of instrumental music in worship presented a three-part series titled "The Both/And Church," suggesting that people should read old texts in fresh, new ways. These advocates proposed that their understanding of biblical texts justifies instruments in church worship. Since that time, some churches have followed their lead.Ironically, this misreading of the relevant biblical texts is not new. The arguments made by these proponents are the arguments that have been made since the late 1800s among advocates of instrumental music in worship.Thomas Alexander answers these "new" arguments in a caring, biblical way in Music in Worship. He carefully evaluates each of the reasons given by "both/and church" proponents and shows that the facts about what God wants in worship have not changed - human attitudes have.

This is the third volume of Ferguson's collected essays, and includes some of his most memorable work, especially on "laying on of hands."

Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship provides basic guidelines for understanding the role and ministry of music in the liturgy. An excellent resource for priests, deacons, and music ministers!