Values of Music Ministry

 “Next to the Word of God, music deserves the highest praise. The gift of language combined with the gift of song was given to man that he should proclaim the Word of God through Music.” – Martin Luther

At SHBC, we share in Martin Luther’s high view of music and the potency of worthy texts set to worthy tunes. Through music, the people of God are built up in the faith as they speak to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs (Eph 5:19). This ministry of mutual edification is guided by three principles. We seek to be gospel centered, multi-generational, and congregational.  

Gathered worship at SHBC is gospel centered. We believe God’s good news is of first importance (1 Cor 15:3) and that its content – the biblical master narrative of creation, fall, redemption, and restoration in Christ – exalts the Son, glorifies the Father, and edifies the saints. It is therefore our joy and delight to make the word of Christ the great theme of our musical worship (Col 3:16).

Additionally, we seek to be multi-generational (Ps 78:4). It brings God great glory when young and old, in Christ-like deference, learn to sing one another’s songs. We believe it exemplifies our Savior’s call to love one another, something that He said would indicate to the world that we belong to Him (Jn 13:35). Consequently, though our musical style is correctly described as traditional, it also true that we are striving for a musical eclecticism representative of our church family.

Lastly, musical worship at SHBC is congregational (1 Cor 14:1-5; Eph 5:18-21; Col 3:16). While choral and instrumental offerings are a valued and regular part of our gatherings, we ultimately agree with John Calvin’s assessment that the primary choir of any local assembly is the congregation itself. This is why we seek to promote Christ-centered songs, eminently suitable for congregational singing, as the steady musical diet of our church.

In all these things, our ultimate aim is that God be glorified through a people that exult in His Son in the power of the Holy Spirit.