Style vs. Substance

I often hear the argument that musical style is neutral when it comes to appropriateness for worship, and that the reason we in the Gottesdienst Crowd reject “contemporary worship” is simply because we just happen to like the organ and classical music.

In other words, if the words pass theological muster, any musical style may be used for the Divine Service, as Scripture doesn’t specify such things, thus making it a matter of adiaphora. Anyone who would say this style or that style cannot be used in worship is a legalist. Any style of worship is fitting, so long as the substance is Lutheran. So goes the argument.

The above video is a great example to discuss. The performers are serious, committed Christians, and also serious musicians dedicated to their craft. The lyrics have, in fact, passed LCMS doctrinal review, and the hymn is in our hymnals. It is also a popular request at funerals. So what’s not to love? Assuming that style is irrelevant, but substance is what matters - what would keep this out of LCMS sanctuaries?

So to my friends who say that style is irrelevant, what do you think about this arrangement for Sunday morning at your parish? Any chance that that the Rev. David Lueke will request this for his funeral?