The topic tonight was "Developing a Vision for Powerful Congregational Singing". Brother Nathan reminded us that Jesus knew the power of group singing. In Matthew 26:30 we are told that Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn together before they went out to the Mount of Olives together, prior to Jesus' arrest. We read several Scriptures that showed us the importance of singing; in fact, we were reminded that it is a command in Scripture to praise God and not just a suggestion. Here are the Scripture we looked at: Hebrews 13:15, Psalm 27:6, Psalm 40:1-3, Psalm 107:1-2 and 31-32, and Psalm 105:1-3.

A vision involves looking ahead and seeing what we need to be doing now for the benefit of our children, grandchildren, and our church. Three areas we talked about were the need for a personal vision, a parental vision, and a vision among the church leaders. First, we thought about our personal responsibility to develop a vision. When we realize that singing is one of God's commands, it gives us a Biblical basis for singing. Singing was often a spontaneous result of victory and rejoicing. The Scriptures show it as a Biblical tradition which is commanded by God and something that holds intrinsic value for men. Singing was God's idea! He made us with a "special space" for singing. If we don't fill it with "God's music", Satan will take advantage of this and fill it with "his music".

What does Congregational singing do for us? We praise and adore God together! It unifies and binds us together. It helps us to depend on each other. We can't sing harmony by ourselves. When we sing together, we are teaching and admonishing one another. Singing helps us understand Bible truth and doctrine. It supplies the music for our worship to God. When we sing together in church, the young learn how to sing and participate in praising our great God. Singing expresses our personal beliefs and convictions. It provides a united response and comfort, guidance, and inspiration in times of special need or special services.

It is very important for parents to have a vision for singing. They are great examples and models to their children, who hopefully also will develop the vision for good singing from them! Parents should see that their children get musical training and develop an appreciation for God-honoring music. Why are so many young people into wrong music? They need guidance from their parents and others to develop an appreciation for good music that will bring glory to God and add blessing to their lives.