Al Lindemulder

Appreciate all of the comments and clarification. Good dialogue.

al

Thanks, Good Stuff!!!!

I think it is possible to question the judgment of others in picking songs.  The Hymnal has a history of scrutiny and approval by way of Synodical decisions.  I am not certain each individual has the collective theological wisdom to scrutinize songss as well as the collective mind of the entire body (CRC).  I know I don't.  However the bigger issue is the role of consistories in giving leadership to our worship services and I am not sure that much time is spent in consistory meetings on the issue of worship.

My next "Blog" will be on mediation.  I am trained in both General and Family Mediation and firmly believe that part of Pastor Counseling Courses should include a course on Mediation as it applies to both the church in general and counseling of family conflicts as well.

I am a bit surprised that we did not receive more comments on "consistory supervision" of music, words, worship service in general.  They seem to delegate without oversight.

One last try at "untameable".  It means to me no control - God is controled by his own righteousness in which he wants us to be righteous as he is righteous.  Love our neighbor as he loves us, etc.

I am just pointing out what the church order states.  I don't think you need to know music to check out the words of a song.

Thank you for your response and information.

If I am not mistaken the Synodical delgations from each classis begins at the local level delegating to Classis and then delegating elders to Synod. So Elders at Synod make the final decision. Prior to that happening the proposed Hymnal is asked to be reviewed by the churches for feedback. So the whole process still places emphasis on "elder supervision and approval".

I mentioned in an earlier comment I was not completely against the word "untameable" but I still maintain it is not the best word to describe God. However to each his own interpretation of the word as used in the song.