Introducing Uninspired Hymns

The practice of using uninspired hymns in worship began to emerge in the fourth century. At first, these hymns were written by Christians with good intentions, often praising Christ and reflecting on personal experiences of faith. While Christians should certainly write songs of praise and devotion and sing them in their daily life, the error came when these uninspired compositions were introduced into the worship of the perfectly holy God, replacing the inspired psalms He had given for His praise.

Initially, this might have been done by singing biblical songs outside the Book of Psalms, such as the Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55). From there, portions of Scripture not originally intended as songs were set to music. The final step in neglecting God’s holy worship was the replacement of the psalms altogether with uninspired compositions. This marked a departure from God’s command that He be worshiped as He has prescribed.

Notably, Augustine argued against this practice. He warned that such innovations, including the introduction of musical instruments, could distract worshipers from singing the psalms and professing their truths together as a congregation. Augustine, in his commentary on Psalm 150, explained that while musical instruments had a role in the Temple under the Old Covenant, for Christians they serve as symbols. Each instrument represents aspects of personal worship. For instance, the harp and lyre symbolize the worship of God through the heart and voice, and Christians are called to fulfill in real worship what these instruments merely symbolize. For the Christian who objects to Psalms on the basis that Christians need New Covenant songs, Augustine would say, “you’re right, New Covenant worship means without the ceremonial instruments of the Old Covenant.”

As Christians began constructing cathedrals, the use of musical instruments—most notably the organ—became more common. These cathedrals were designed to impress with their grandeur, drawing the eyes of worshipers upward toward heaven. The music of the organ was loud and enveloping, intended to inspire awe. Yet, in doing so, many Christians returned to outward forms, forgetting the inner spiritual truths that worship was meant to convey. The focus shifted from congregational participation to spectacle, losing the simplicity and purity of worship commanded by God.