How Do We Distinguish Between an Aid and an Addition?
In our study of biblical authority, we learned that God often gives commands without specifying every detail of how they are to be carried out. As Christians seek to obey those commands, an important question arises:
What simply helps us obey God's command, and what changes the command itself?
The New Testament does not use the words aid and addition, but it does give us principles that help answer that question.
Consider Jesus' command to preach the gospel.
He did not tell His disciples how they were to travel. They could walk, ride a horse, sail a ship, drive a car, or fly in an airplane. The method may change, but the command remains the same. These are simply ways of carrying out what Jesus commanded.
The same is true in many other areas. Christians may meet in a home or a church building. They may read from a printed Bible or an electronic device. A microphone may help people hear the speaker. None of these changes the command itself. They simply help us carry it out.
Sometimes, however, the question is different.
Instead of asking,
"Does this help us obey God's command?"
we should ask,
"Does this introduce something different from what God instructed?"
That is not always an easy question, and sincere Christians sometimes reach different conclusions. For that reason, we should study carefully, avoid assumptions, and always return to the text.
Our goal is not to defend tradition or encourage change for its own sake.
Our goal is to respect God's Word.
Whenever we study a practice, these questions are worth asking:
What has God commanded?
What is the purpose of that command?
Does this help us obey it?
Or does it change what God asked us to do?
Those questions keep our attention where it belongs—on Scripture rather than on personal preference.
In our next study, we'll apply these questions to one of the most discussed subjects in Christian worship.
Not by beginning with opinions...
But by returning once again to the biblical text.
Continue Your Study
What About Instrumental Music?
Why were instruments used in Old Testament worship?
Why are they mentioned in the book of Revelation?
What does the New Testament actually say about music in the worship of the church?
Rather than beginning with tradition, we'll begin with the biblical text.
Related Bible Studies
What Does the Bible Teach About Singing?
What Does the Bible Teach About Silence?
How Does the New Testament Communicate Authority?
Companion Video
How Do We Distinguish Between an Aid and an Addition?
Read First. Conclude Later.