Do Musical Instruments Belong in The Church?

A work colleague of mine, and Church of Christ preacher on the side, often debate theology.  The biggest debate topic is the idea that musical instruments do not belong in the church. The Church of Christ famously believes this.  I ask him what about David and his harp?  

And he quotes Amos 6:4-7, which says in the NASB:

“Those who lie on beds of ivory, And lounge around on their couches,  And eat lambs from the flock,  And calves from the midst of the fattened cattle, 5Who improvise to the sound of the harp,  And like David have [b]composed songs for themselves, 6Who drink wine from sacred bowls While they anoint themselves with the finest of oils—  Yet they have not grieved over the collapse of Joseph. 7Therefore, they will now go into exile at the head of the exiles.  And the revelry of those who lounge around will come to an end.”

He says there is no mention of instruments AFTER Amos, so they shouldn’t be used in worship. He has alluded to me that I may not be saved if I do go to a church that has instruments. Other members of the Church of Christ have essentially told me the same thing, or at least try to cast doubt on my salvation because of the instruments.

Excerpt From The Answer

“Notwithstanding “worship wars,” I’ve heard most every complaint. People complain about drums, dB level, contemporary v. hymns, and choir music being too boring. Just like Goldilocks and the Three Bears, porridge, chair, and bed, finding just right is a difficult thing.

When someone complained to me about this-or-that I’d tell them, ‘You know, if I picked the music, about 1-2% of the people would like it.’ I choose to look at the heart, talent, skill, volunteer, men / women who use their gifts to help us worship. These men and women of faith come early, stay late, practice, and love to serve in this way. I think they are using their skills/gifts to serve His local church to encourage worship.”

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