When An Aid or Expediency Becomes A Sin

Do you have God’s authority for all that you do, a thus saith the Lord? Many say they do but then they label their activity an “aid” or an “expedient.” Others have given up trying this idea and just say God gives us unlimited freedom to do whatever we please in the church.  In order for a thing to be expedient, it must first be lawful. (1 Cor. 6:12) In order for a thing to be an “aid” it most aid or help in doing the that which is lawful and commanded. These two facts alone should eliminate most of those things which are frivolously designated as “aids and expedients.”

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC IS NOT AN AID OR EXPEDIENCY

Singing is commanded and authorized by God’s Word (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16). We are commanded to sing specifically psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. If we had not been told what kind of songs to sing, then it would make no difference if they were rap, rock and roll, country, or patriotic. Consequently, if we had been told to play instrument of music, or to sing and play instruments of music then instrumental music would be required, and any kind of instrument could have been used. However, had we been told to play a piano, no other instrument could be used, and this would no longer be in the realm of an aid of choice, but rather a commandment to obey. Mechanical instruments of music can not be justified by the scriptures in Worship, for they are an addition to God’s Word, and they do not obey God’s commandment of: singing, teaching, speaking, admonishing, praising God with the fruit of our lips, and making melody in our hearts to the Lord. (Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16; Heb. 13:15)

Mechanical music in worship do not aid the worshipers as claimed by denomination. In fact, most who rely on instruments will confess that the use of such discourages the many person from singing, and encourages the use of choirs, solos, and professional musicians. Conversely, any child of God, without tune or a trained voice is commanded to sing praises unto God.

KITCHENS AND RECREATION HALLS ARE NOT AN AID OR EXPEDIENCY

We have been commanded to assemble for the purpose of edifying and worshiping God in Spirit and in Truth. Jn 4:23,24 This simply means that what the Spirit authorized by God’s approbation is considered truth, for the law of God is truth. Ps 119:142 Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Jn 1:17 Therefore, all other forms of worship are considered error for they proceed not from God, his Son or the apostles, but from the doctrines of men which turn us from the truth and not to the truth.  Tit 2:14

Therefore, before the church is allowed to build a kitchen or a recreational room with the Lord’s contribution, we must first find authorization for the church to assemble for such purposes as eating a common meal and/or being entertained. If the church has no biblical authorization for such things, then it has no authority for such “aids” as kitchens, “fellowship” halls, universities, hospitals, or orphanages. As a matter of fact, the bible condemned the eating in the Lord’s church. “What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and shame those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you in this? I do not praise you…But if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, lest you come together for judgment.” 1 Cor 11:22,34 Twist God’s Word if you dare, but God’s Word can’t be broken, added to or taken from by anyone, for it is forever settled in heaven. Jn 10:35 ff; 1 Cor 4:6; Rev 22:18,19

Conclusion:

If God commanded us to study His Word, do we not need bibles to aid us in this commandment? 2 Tim 2:15  If God commanded us to sing, do we not need written songs to aid us in singing them? Eph 5:19 However, we don’t need aids or expedients to do that which God never commanded or spoke thereof. Jer 19:5 It isn’t too late to come out of such perverse and wicked doctrines and place our influence with those who are still trying to follow a “thus saith the Lord.” However, don’t try the patience of God for it will be too late after death when all shall give a full account for what they say and do; for by our words we shall be justified and by our words we shall be condemned. Mt 12:37

Too many are apathetic when it comes to the goodness and severity of God. Rom 11:22 Let us always be reminded of the strictness of God which he placed upon his prophets. Jeremiah reminded us when he wrote, “..He that has my Word, let him speak my Word faithfully.” Jer 23:28 As Paul said to the Corinthians, “These things we also speak, not in words which man’s wisdom teaches but which the Holy Spirit teaches, comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” 1 Cor 2:13 As Peter concluded, “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles (the very words NIV) of God.” 1 Pet 4:11 To worship God any other way than by His divine design so designated by His Holy Word is nothing more than vain worship fit for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under the foot of men, even as they have trodden under foot the Word of Jesus Christ which shall judge us all come the great and final day. Mt 5:13 f; Jn 12:48