A Good Saying:
"Der Ton Macht Die Musik"
by: Ivie Powell
The Germans have a good saying, "Der ton macht die musik," the tone makes the music. That is certainly true in every area of life particularly preaching. Paul’s instructions to Timothy in 1 Timothy 4 as well as 2 Timothy 4:1-2 needs to be read often by preachers as well as members! Truly there is no work in all the world compared to that of proclaiming the unsearchable riches of Christ!
Many years ago, someone said, "As goes the pulpit so goes the church." In other words, the tone that proceeds forth from the pulpit determines the philosophy of that congregation. If one (This would include a congregation) is interested in being the best liked and popular fellow in town at the expense of truth then he will not proclaim the gospel as instructed by the inspired Paul! On the other hand, if one truly loves God and the souls of all men, he cannot help but speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15)!
Being a "good minister" in the sight of God involves reminding the brethren, "If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained" (1 Timothy 4:6). Emphasis will be placed on the spiritual rather than the physical (4:7-8). A lesson that is greatly needed in this age inundated with heathenism which has greatly affected the church!
Real spiritual growth is not in the wisdom that this world offers (1 Cor. 1:18-31). To follow such a course causes brethren to be "...tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive" (Eph. 4:14). Rather, genuine spiritual growth comes from, "...reading...exhortation...doctrine" (4:13). As Timothy was told not to neglect "the gift" that he possessed which was given to him "by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery" (4:14) so preachers as well as other Christians must not neglect their natural abilities in the work of the Lord and to wholly give themselves in order to save their souls as well as others (4:16).
It is very important that we do not send forth an uncertain sound to area congregations as well as the brotherhood as to the direction a congregation is taking! This congregation stands where it has always stood and hopefully will never be deterred! We want to be known as a congregation that loves the Lord and His glorious church enough to do exactly as He has set forth in His word, and all which that encompasses! Truly such a "tone" being sent forth makes the difference!