How do we decide which songs to sing in worship? Is it enough that a song is “spiritual” and doesn’t teach false doctrine—or should we be thinking more carefully than that?
In this lesson, we explore the idea of opportunity cost as it applies to congregational singing. Drawing on an article by the late Matt Bassford, we consider how every song choice is also a missed opportunity to sing another song—and why that matters when Scripture tells us that singing is meant to teach and admonish one another (Colossians 3:16).
(Original article is here)
Using real hymn examples, the lesson compares:
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“Sanctuary” and “Purer in Heart, O God” — two songs on holiness, but with very different levels of biblical depth and clarity.
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How vague or repetitive songs, while not false, may be less useful than songs that clearly teach Scripture.
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Why tune enjoyment should never outweigh theological substance.
The lesson concludes with a thoughtful walk-through of “Sweet Hour of Prayer,” showing how a good hymn functions like a sermon—moving from earthly distress, through faithful petition, to heavenly hope, and ultimately to being face-to-face with God.
This lesson is not about banning songs, but about wise judgment: choosing what is best, not merely what is acceptable, with the limited time we have in worship and in life.
Key themes:
- Opportunity cost in worship
- Teaching and admonishing through song
- Depth vs. vagueness in hymn lyrics
- Prayer as refuge, trust, and eternal hope
Hymns discussed:
- Sanctuary
- Purer in Heart, O God
- Sweet Hour of Prayer