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About Joe Norman
Expertise
I can answer questions regarding acceptable worship, organization of the church, or any apsect of the Christian life. I am the son of a preacher and have studied the Bible from cover to cover since I was 12 years old. I am strong in my research skills and do not follow teachings of men. Many will label me as conservative and some might label me as liberal, but I just seek to be biblical. I understand proper exegesis and hermeneutics and apply them. My desire is to share my knowledge of God's Word with others. Please always keep in mind that none of us who are listed as experts here are divinely inspired and therefore it is possible to get incorrect answers from any one of us. Study the Scriptures and decide for yourself if what is taught is true.

Experience
I am the 4th generation in my family to be a faithful member of the church of Christ. I was raised by a preacher and have studied the Bible everyday since I was twelve. I am 44 yrs old now. I am not a "scholar", but I am very familiar with the scriptures.

Organizations
member of the church of Christ, served as a Deacon for a few years at LakeShore church of Christ in Waco, Tx. I currently live in the North Dallas area and worship with the Lewisville church of Christ.

Education/Credentials
School of hard knocks

You are here: Experts > Religion/Spirituality > Christianity - Restorationism > Churches Of Christ > musical instruments

Churches Of Christ - musical instruments

Expert: Joe Norman - 10/17/2009

Question
Since there are no musical instuments used in Church of Christ services, are members of this faith supposed to listen to secular music that have instruments?

Answer
Members of the Lord's church are able to listen to any sort of music they enjoy so long as the lyrics are clean. There is no restriction to be found in the New Testament for Christians regarding music outside of worship. In fact, I studied classical piano from age 12 to 18 and then again in college for 2 years. I love to play the piano and I love to listen to all sorts of music. I just choose to avoid vulgar songs and rap and most hip-hop.

I would also like to point out that musical instruments were not widely accepted in worship until over 1000 years after the church was established. Also nearly every major denomination started out not allowing musical instruments in worship. Martin Luther was against the use of musical instruments in worship; as was John Wesley, and John Calvin just to name a few. Also to this day the Greek Orthodox church does not allow musical instruments in worship.

I do apologize for taking so long to respond to your question, but I do hope that I have provided a satisfactory answer. If not, please feel free to ask a follow-up question. I normally use a good deal of scripture in my answers, but didn't see a need for it at this point. I thank you for choosing me to answer this question for you and to God be the glory.

In Christ, Joe Norman

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