The Music Philosophy of Westside Baptist Church

The purpose of corporate worship should be to:

• Praise God - Psalm 40:3, Acts 16:25, Eph 5:19-20; Col 3:16,17; Heb 13:15
• Glorify God - Psalm 34:3, 1 Cor 10:31, Eph 1:12, 3:20-21
• Edify Believers - Eph. 4:29, Col. 3:16

The text of a hymn or song must find it source directly in Scripture, or it must clearly and accurately reflect the truth of God’s word. The text must be balanced, reflecting both doctrine and practice, and emphasizing the complete experience of the Christian life. It should be beautiful in both order and meter. Also, the meaning of the text should be clearly understood.

The tune or melody should properly reflect and enhance the meaning of the text. It should involve the believer’s heart engaging the spirit and emotions of the singer. A good tune motivates whole-hearted singing unto the Lord. The rhythm should support and enhance the melody not overpower it or the text.

The style should be sacred in it’s character, reflecting the holiness of God’s character. Since the qualities of the Spirit are in direct contradiction to the desires of the flesh, so also should the style of music be distinctively different from the corrupt culture of this present age. That being said, however, music can still reflect the wholesome elements of the cultural setting from which it is written, thereby enhancing its impact when used within that context.

Overall music used for worship should first and foremost be pleasing and acceptable to God. Secondly, it should engage the entire congregation (Eph. 5:18, Col. 3:16) and should not be at a level that most of the congregation cannot sing. Thirdly, it should advance the unity of the congregation drawing them together in a heart of devotion to the Lord.

May God grant us wisdom to select music that glorifies Him, humility to sing and play without pride, compassion to care about the needs of people, and illumination to understand the truths that we sing and play.