Aim and purpose
“There must be a living connection with God in prayer, a living connection with God in songs of praise and thanksgiving.” Evangelism, p. 498.
In light of this, the SDA Reform Movement Music Department (actually a subcommittee) is entrusted with a very important area of labor. The Creator of the heavens and the earth is musical—and the ministry of music is an amazing tool to soften hearts and uplift souls in the proclamation of the everlasting gospel.
“Song is a weapon that we can always use against discouragement. As we thus open the heart to the sunlight of the Saviour’s presence, we shall have health and His blessing.” The Ministry of Healing, p. 499.
Persons of all ages—especially the young—are deeply touched by music, so the wise use of this magnificent art is a highly effective aid when teaching the present truth at our church events.
“Song is one of the most effective means of impressing spiritual truth upon the heart. Often by the words of sacred song, the springs of penitence and faith have been unsealed.” Evangelism, p. 500.
Blessings to be reaped
“As the children of Israel, journeying through the wilderness, cheered their way by the music of sacred song, so God bids His children today gladden their pilgrim life. There are few means more effective for fixing His words in the memory than repeating them in song. And such song has wonderful power. It has power to subdue rude and uncultivated natures; power to quicken thought and to awaken sympathy, to promote harmony of action, and to banish the gloom and foreboding that destroy courage and weaken effort.
“It is one of the most effective means of impressing the heart with spiritual truth. How often to the soul hard-pressed and ready to despair, memory recalls some word of God’s—the long-forgotten burden of a childhood song,—and temptations lose their power, life takes on new meaning and new purpose, and courage and gladness are imparted to other souls!” Education, pp. 167, 168.
Instruction provided
Projects focusing on music—this vital branch of the Lord’s work—include vacation music camps where youth are trained in how to strengthen their musical talents to present orchestral and choral items in a powerfully convincing way. “Singing is a part of the worship of God, but in the bungling manner in which it is often conducted, it is no credit to the truth, and no honor to God. There should be system and order in this as well as every other part of the Lord’s work.” Evangelism, p. 506. We are bidden to “sing unto the Lord a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise” (Psalm 33:3). “Let the singing be accompanied with musical instruments skilfully handled.” Ibid., p. 507.
Topics are provided to enhance discernment on how to distinguish between music that merely entertains or degrades, versus pure, melodious song that is spiritually edifying to the soul. “And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and the profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean” (Ezekiel 44:23).
Fellowship
Virtual sacred music concerts are presented online and a musician’s convention was recently held via Zoom, where hundreds of musicians from five continents were encouraged and enriched by listening to topics and musical items from experienced church members—several of whom earn their entire livelihood through music. “I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify Him with thanksgiving” (Psalm 69:30).
Yes, the beauty of truly sacred music is indeed a treasure to cherish—and we earnestly seek to continue promoting its tremendous benefits to the honor and glory of God!
