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Biblical Discernment in Worship Music: Glorifying God in Song
Worship music shapes the theology and affections of God’s people. In many churches, songs are chosen for their emotional pull or popularity rather than their biblical truth. Yet Jesus calls us to worship the Father “in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). That means our songs must align with God’s Word and exalt Christ.
The Question: How should Christians discern worship music?
1. Test the Lyrics by Scripture
The first and most important test is biblical fidelity. Do the lyrics accurately reflect the truth of God’s Word? Colossians 3:16 calls us to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly—“teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs.” If a song’s message contradicts or distorts Scripture, it should not be used in corporate worship.
2. Evaluate the Theology Behind the Song
- Does it present a true view of God’s character?
- Does it teach the gospel clearly or obscure it?
- Does it magnify Christ rather than man?
Every song we sing functions like a short sermon, shaping the congregation’s understanding of who God is and what He has done in Christ.
3. Consider the Source
Some songs come from ministries with unsound theology. Even if a particular lyric set appears orthodox, platforming a source that promotes error can confuse the flock and lend credibility to false teaching. Shepherds should carefully weigh the pastoral implications of what they introduce to the church.
4. Ask About Congregational Singability
Worship is for the gathered people of God, not a stage show. If a song is difficult to sing or crafted primarily for performance, it can hinder participation. As Paul says, all things in the assembly should “build up” the church (1 Corinthians 14:26). Melodic range, tempo, and lyrical clarity matter.
5. Aim for Edification, Not Just Emotion
Music rightly stirs the heart, but our emotions should be anchored in truth. Good worship songs lead believers to deeper love for God and obedient lives, not merely momentary feelings. Let the truth of Scripture fuel the affections of God’s people.
Conclusion
Worship music is never neutral it teaches, shapes, and influences the church. By filtering every song through Scripture, sound theology, congregational usefulness, and pastoral care, we help ensure that our worship in song truly glorifies God and strengthens His people.
Dave Jenkins is happily married to his wife, Sarah. He is a writer, editor, and speaker living in beautiful Southern Oregon. Dave is a lover of Christ, His people, the Church, and sound theology. He serves as the Executive Director of Servants of Grace Ministries, the Executive Editor of Theology for Life Magazine, the Host and Producer of Equipping You in Grace Podcast, and is a contributor to and producer of Contending for the Word. He is the author of The Word Explored: The Problem of Biblical Illiteracy and What To Do About It (House to House, 2021), The Word Matters: Defending Biblical Authority Against the Spirit of the Age (G3 Press, 2022), and Contentment: The Journey of a Lifetime (Theology for Life, 2024). You can find him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube, or read his newsletter. Dave loves to spend time with his wife, going to movies, eating at a nice restaurant, or going out for a round of golf with a good friend. He is also a voracious reader, in particular of Reformed theology, and the Puritans. You will often find him when he’s not busy with ministry reading a pile of the latest books from a wide variety of Christian publishers. Dave received his M.A.R. and M.Div through Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary.
