67. PLAYING MARCHES, WALTZES, ETC by Editor

Pacific Press Publishing Company · Oakland, California · Dec 5, 1892

67. PLAYING MARCHES, WALTZES, ETC.

By Editor

I want to know if it is wicked for Christians to play marches and waltzes? I like to hear them, and it is a great temptation to me to keep from playing them. I have studied a great deal about it; everyone I have mentioned it to says, "Of course it is all right," but I am not satisfied that it is, and I want to know what you people think of it, and then if it is wrong I can more firmly resist it. M. J. C.

In reply we would say, These questions are difficult to decide. Some Christians play waltzes and marches and do not feel condemned, and it is not for us to condemn them (the Christians, we mean). Personally we believe it better for the Christian to refrain from such things; for (1) the playing of such tunes

generally brings to the mind associations and scenes which do not make for godliness or increase spirituality.

Even if they do no harm, what good can they do, unless it be in some simple and proper gymnastic exercise or march for physical good? (2) When Christians are nearest Christ, and have the most of his Spirit, they have little or no care for any of these things. This would show that the persuasion to indulge did not come from God, who called us by his Spirit. (3) If conscience condemns our querist, and she violates conscience, she thus benumbs or sears conscience, so that it is easier to yield next time, and next time, till, at last, nothing would appear sinful. "Whatsoever is not of faith is sin." See Rom. 14:23. (4) The Lord says through an apostle, "Is any merry [Revised Version, "cheerful"] let him sing psalms [Revised Version, "praise"]." James 5:13. (5) Would Christ do it if he were here? Would we do it if his visible presence were by our side? Would to God that his professed people would get so near to him that they could count him and his "altogether lovely." With joy would they then draw water from the wells of salvation, and quaff the nectar of life, instead of seeking happiness at the stagnant pools and broken cisterns of the world. Follow Christ, and find joy in him.