Does the Bible have to give specific authority for what we do?

 

Does the Bible have to give specific authority for what we do?

 

Someone has asked this question.

 

The "specific authority" given to us is to do everything in the name of the Lord, to his glory.

 

That means you are to wash the dishes to the lord's glory, as he would do it.

 

That means you are to feed the dog to the lord's glory, as he would do it.

 

That means to play your guitar to the lord's glory, as he would do it.

 

Having sex, brushing your teeth, swinging a golf club, repairing your car, pushing your daughter in her swing - whatever; it is all to be done in the name of the lord, to his glory.

 

So the question becomes, "Is it appropriate in this or that situation?"

 

In the situation of assembled Christians, what is appropriate is whatever brings growth to the group:

1 Cor 14:26 What is it then, brothers? When you come together, each one of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has another language, or has an interpretation. Let all things be done to build each other up.

If instruments contribute to that goal; use instruments. If instruments detract from that goal, don't use instruments. The conclusion will surely vary depending on the group and the situation.

 

If the question is asked, "What is specifically authorized for the assembly", there are no such specifics given (except the one above about building up the assemblers).

 

The common collections we often see of so-called "authorized acts in worship" are a few passages, often removed from their context, intermixed with much reading between the lines and colored by a great deal of fallible human reasoning.

 

As to issues requiring such reasoning:

MLV Rom 14:1 But receive the one who is weak in the faith, yet not for the judging of his reasonings.