South End
Church of Christ

4001 Taylor Blvd
Louisville, KY 40215

 

Handclapping In Worship
Aaron Erhardt

Handclapping has become a fixture in the worship service of many denominations, and even in some liberal churches of Christ. Therefore, we need to consider if it is scriptural to clap our hands in worship.

First, there is no passage in the New Testament that authorizes handclapping in worship (Colossians 3:17). Second, when saints sought to show their approval for something in worship, they said “Amen” (1 Corinthians 14:16). Third, if we allow clapping hands, then we must also allow slapping knees, stomping feet, waving hands, whistling, screaming, booing, etc. And what about high-fives and somersaults? If one is allowed, all are allowed. Such chaos is contrary to the command that things be done “decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40). Fourth, when clapping is done as a rhythmical accompaniment to the singing, it becomes parallel to mechanical instruments. What is the difference between clapping hands as we sing and beating a drum as we sing? Both are additions to the singing!

Some liberal brethren argue that handclapping is authorized in Psalm 47:1. However, the psalms are part of the old law (John 10:34), which has been nailed to the cross (Colossians 2:14). Our authority must come from the new law. Further, the same psalm mentions “shouting” and a “sounding trumpet.” Can we shout and sound trumpets in worship? What proves too much proves nothing at all.

Handclapping is yet another unauthorized practice that started in denominationalism. Faithful churches of Christ will reject handclapping.
 


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