Written by: Marian Polanco
In recent years, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has found itself at a crossroads, grappling with the tension between tradition and progress, conservatism and adaptation. While conservatism can be a source of strength that fosters unity and preserves cherished values, it can also hinder growth and alienate those seeking a more inclusive community. Today, it is time for some Adventist members to confront the reality that conservatism may be holding them back from fully embracing their mission in the modern world.
This debate has returned to the forefront following a January 13 Facebook post by Advent Messenger, which condemned the use of loud drums and jumping/dancing during a worship service at the Southern Union’s recent Academy Prayer Conference. The post showcased students from Southern Adventist University singing and playing instruments, as well as academy students jumping and singing along. Advent Messenger’s criticism of the video argued that there was no distinction between the worship scene in the video and what takes place at secular rock concerts.
“Tragically, Adventism is reaching a point where anything we do is legitimate and acceptable as long as it is done in God’s name. There are no longer any boundaries. Worship is evolving nowadays to imitate as much of the outside world as possible,” stated Advent Messenger. “We no longer seek worship that is different, distinctive, or unique from the commonplace ‘cheap, miserable inventions’ that we witness in dance hall club scenes.”
This incident sheds light on a broader issue within the Adventist church: its struggle with conservatism.
The stance that Adventists often take on the use of musical instruments, particularly drums, is excessively conservative. This stance is not only regressive, but also ironic in many ways. The church aims to preach love, acceptance and inclusivity, but members continue to ostracize and condemn elements that do not align with its traditions. In one of the 90 comments posted in response to the Facebook entry by Advent Messenger, a user wrote: “Agreed! The devil has come into the church through music to reach our young people and older adults as well.”
The argument against drums in the church lacks biblical support and fails to consider cultural context. The Bible references the use of drums and other percussive instruments in times of worship. In the book of Psalms, we find verses exalting the use of instruments, including drums, to praise God. Psalm 150:4 says, “Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs.” If these instruments were deemed acceptable for worship in biblical times, why should they be considered inappropriate in modern church settings?
Some Adventists argue that maintaining specific worship practices, including limitations on musical instruments such as drums, is essential for preserving the church’s identity and doctrinal purity. They believe that straying from established traditions may lead to theological compromise and dilution of spiritual values. Additionally, they argue that embracing too much change could risk alienating long-standing members who value familiarity and stability in their worship experience. Thus, while acknowledging the need for adaptation, they emphasize the importance of upholding foundational principles and practices that have defined Adventism throughout its history.
However, clinging excessively to tradition can risk hindering the church’s growth and relevance in an ever-changing world. The Adventist Church prides itself on spreading the gospel and making disciples of all nations. Still, this mission becomes increasingly challenging when members fail to adapt to contemporary society’s cultural and social shifts.
It is time for conservative Adventists to re-evaluate their stances on issues like music and to embrace a more inclusive and progressive approach. Instead of shunning change, let us embrace diversity and celebrate how individuals connect with their faith. After all, isn’t the essence of Christianity rooted in love, acceptance and understanding?
Editor’s Note: The Accent invites those with differing views to submit a piece or pitch an idea to the opinion column by emailing our opinion editor at apdewey@southern.edu.
