Hymns are songs of praise and worship, typically sung by congregations in church services. The word “hymn” comes from the Greek word hymnos, meaning “song of praise.” Hymns have been an important part of Christian worship since the earliest days of the church. Here is an overview of what the Bible teaches about hymns:
Origins of hymn singing
The practice of congregational hymn singing has its roots in the worship of the early church. The New Testament contains several references to hymns and songs of praise sung by believers. For example, after the Last Supper, Jesus and his disciples “sang a hymn” before going to the Mount of Olives (Matthew 26:30). Paul and Silas sang hymns while imprisoned in Philippi (Acts 16:25). In his letter to the Colossians, Paul instructs believers to “sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16).
Many scholars believe some passages in the New Testament may have originally been hymns sung by the first Christians. These include Philippians 2:6-11, 1 Timothy 3:16, and Colossians 1:15-20. So from the very beginnings of Christianity, music and hymns were integral to worship.
Purpose of hymns
The Bible indicates several important purposes for hymns in the life of the church:
- Praise – Many psalms urge the people to sing God’s praises (Psalm 9:11, Psalm 30:4). Hymns focus our attention on God in worship.
- Teaching – Colossians 3:16 says we are to sing “psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Hymns can help instruct people in the truths of Scripture.
- Encouragement – Speaking to one another in song (Ephesians 5:19), hymns can build up and strengthen the body of Christ.
- Reminder of Truth – Hymns help reinforce biblical doctrine in memorable ways. They allow people to “let the message of Christ dwell among [them] richly” (Colossians 3:16).
So hymns serve an important role in expressing praise, teaching sound doctrine, encouraging the church, and reminding believers of scriptural truths.
Biblical qualities of hymns
What are the key qualities of hymns that please God according to the Bible? Here are some important principles:
- God-centered lyrics – They should glorify God and reflect on his character and work. Our singing is to be directed “to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19).
- Sound doctrine – Lyrics should be biblical accurate and theologically sound (Colossians 3:16). Hymns should reflect orthodox Christian beliefs.
- Reverent spirit – Hymns are not merely performances, but an act of worship. Singing should be done with awe and thankfulness to God (Psalm 89:7).
- Variety of themes – The Psalms and other scriptures cover many subjects, from praising God’s greatness to lamenting suffering. Hymns can give voice to a range of human experiences.
- Corporate activity – The Bible depicts hymn singing as the corporate activity of the people of God together (Ephesians 5:19-20). Hymns unite the body of Christ.
In summary, biblical hymns should focus on God in reverent praise, contain sound doctrine, cover diverse themes, and bring the church together in worship.
How are hymns used in worship?
Here are some of the key ways hymns are utilized in Christian worship services:
- Singing before/after sermons – Hymns help prepare hearts for hearing God’s word preached. They also respond to the sermon, reinforcing key themes through song.
- Opening/closing worship – Familiar hymns often open church services, calling worshipers to focus on God. Hymns of response close worship times.
- Introducing themes – Worship leaders choose specific hymns to highlight certain themes, reinforce sermon topics, or underscore liturgical seasons/events.
- Public profession of faith – Traditional hymns of commitment are sometimes sung after baptisms or public professions of faith.
- Special services – Weddings, funerals, and holiday services make much use of timeless, appropriate hymns.
- Carrying tradition – Enduring hymns connect modern believers to Christians of the past. Familiar hymns join generations.
Through these varied uses, hymns serve as a vital part of Christian worship services.
Examples of well-known hymns
Many hymns written over the centuries have endured as classics sung in churches worldwide. Here are a few of the most well-known and influential hymns:
- “Amazing Grace” – John Newton’s personal testimony of conversion through God’s grace.
- “It Is Well With My Soul” – Horatio Spafford’s reassuring hymn written after tragic loss of his daughters.
- “Holy, Holy, Holy” – Reginald Heber’s hymn praising the triune holiness of God.
- “Fairest Lord Jesus” – Anonymous German hymn from 17th century expressing love of Christ.
- “And Can It Be” – Charles Wesley’s hymn celebrating the redemptive work of Christ.
- “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” – Thomas Chisholm’s song rejoicing in God’s providence and mercy.
These and hundreds of other hymns have provided the soundtrack of Christian worship through the ages. They connect believers around shared truths, enduring across years, countries, and generations.
Writing new hymns
While many classic hymns still resonate with churches today, some modern hymn writers also create fresh expressions to enrich the worship of current believers. When writing new hymns, the principles from Scripture still apply:
- Focus on God’s nature and work, not just human experience
- Ensure lyrics align with orthodox theology
- Use poetic language that engages the mind and heart
- Find ways to connect timeless truths to today’s context
- Aim for communal response, not just personal expression
With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, gifted hymn writers can craft songs of praise that teach deep spiritual truths, unite worshipers in adoration, and stand the test of time for future generations.
The blessings of hymns
Why does God gift the church with hymns? The Bible and Christian history reveal many blessings that come from worshiping through song:
- Hymns glorify God, not us. They turn our focus to praising the greatness of God.
- Singing truth embeds doctrine more deeply than just hearing it. Hymns enhance learning and retention.
- Hymns unite believers around shared truths and experiences crossing time and geography.
- Through participation in hymns, worship engages the mind, will, and emotions in a holistic way.
- Hymns allow the expression of a range of human experiences – joy, lament, wonder, commitment.
- The Holy Spirit can use hymns powerfully to inspire, convict, assure, and transform people.
Truly, congregational hymn singing is a marvelous gift that God has given to the church. Joining our voices in praise connects us to the Cloud of Witnesses – all past, present and future worshipers of the risen Lamb upon the throne. What a foretaste of the eternal hymn of praise that we will one day sing together in glory (Revelation 5:9-14).
