Will modern worship songs stand the test of time?
Why are classic hymns so enduring?
Some songs stand the test of time. Classic hymns such as Amazing Grace, And Can It Be, Be Thou My Vision, Great Is Thy Faithfulness and It Is Well With My Soul are centuries old, but still have the power to stir the soul today.
What makes these compositions so powerful and enduring? Here are 3 reasons why hymns (like the above) are still favorites around the world:
- Profound Biblical truths
- Song story relevant to all generations
- Melody is singable, memorable and uplifting
Greatest songs in the Bible
Now, let me suggest some of the ‘greatest songs in the bible’, that are not so familiar today:
Moses Song of the Sea – Exodus 15
Song of Moses – Deuteronomy 32
David’s Song of the Bow – 2 Samuel 1
Have you sung any of those songs recently? At all? I doubt it, but can you imagine the inspiration the Israelites and early church would have taken from reciting and/or singing these great literary works?!
They knew of a great Savior. Singing and reciting scripture was a central means of learning God’s word and reminding one another of His faithfulness and goodness.
Will modern songs endure?
What about the hymns and congregational songs that are written these days. More and more people are trying their hand at songwriting, which is a good thing. But with so many songs now available to the church, the responsibility of choosing songs that will “teach and admonish one another” (Colossians 3:16) should not be taken lightly.
Will any of these new psalms, hymns and spiritual songs stand the test of time? Time will tell…
