[ampaterry]

I remember a little independent Baptist church we used to attend many years ago in Illinois. Several of us thought the services were really too dry and formal, and things should be livened up. We talked several folks into joining my family in livening up the service just a bit. We decided that we would ask for a faster hymn, and we would start clapping in time with it. Now don’t get me wrong, these were GOOD people, but they had become a bit set in their ways, and did not think much of change. We were sitting together, and when the hymn started, we started clapping in time – and others in the church did NOT join in. In fact, several of the members kept turning their heads and watching us like they had never heard of clapping to music before. After some time, a few joined us, however, and it became sort of a clapping and nonclapping seating arrangement in that little church! And the services IMPROVED! Even those that would never join us accepted it as a legitimate part of worship.

The Lord led us to leave Illinois, and to re-furbish and open Bethany Church, which I have now pastored for over twenty five years. I have diligently worked not to forget the lessons learned in that little Baptist church in the corn fields of Illinois.

In fact, in the early days I called for a vote, and not one single person voted that they would be offended if anyone clapped or even if they got to shouting during a service. So, clap to any hymn you want to! You can even shout if the spirit moves you!

1 Thessalonians 5:16-19 (KJV);
16 Rejoice evermore.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
19 Quench not the Spirit.

We do not serve a god of bondage -
We have TRUE freedom!
We have REAL liberty through Jesus Christ!
Do not allow anyone to put you into bondage to tradition.