The number of them (Musicians), with their brethren who were trained in singing to the Lord, all who were skillful, was two hundred and eighty- eight.” (v.7)
This chapter deals with the musicians, those who were skilled or gifted in music and prophesy. These musicians were divided into twenty-four companies, with twelve in each compamy, totaling two hundred and eighty eight who served in the temple (v.7). Once again we see that lots were casted to determine order of service (v.8), which is specificly laid out in verses 8-31.We find two purposes for these musicians in our text; 1) “to prophesy with harps” and 2) “to give thanks and direct praise to God” (v.3).
Although we seldom see prophesy being fulfilled through music in the church today, this doesn’t mean it can’t be. Prophedic songs can be given by the Spirit and should be sought by all musicians in prayer to God, who gives us eyes to see His good and perfect will.
Praise and thanksgiving on the other hand, are still alive and well within the music ministry of the church today. This long and blessed task of bring the congregation into a Holy reverence of a Holy God is an awesome responsibility, and one that must be balanced in so many ways. Bringing a congregation into a spirit of thankfulness and praise by putting the focus on God and not on one’s self, should be the task of all who minister in music.
The Truth
Praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord who minister by night in the house of the Lord. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary and praise the Lord.” (Psalm 134:1-2)
