The Local Implication

What are the ethnodoxological principles that apply to both the pew and the mission field? I propose that we start with these:

– Music is not a universal language—our responses to music are learned, not intrinsic. 

– Just like in spoken language, a heart music must be understood to be interpreted correctly.

– All peoples should have the opportunity to worship God in their own heart languages and music.

– Churches that value heart music and arts in worship, reflecting the various cultures in their communities, are demonstrating the love of Christ to the world.

 

An Unstoppable Movement

I realize that in calling myself an ethnodoxologist, I will continue getting quizzical looks. Moreover, the conversation that starts with “Ethno-what?” will continue to be a regular part of my life. But what I love about that conversation is that I get to talk about the four important principles outlined above—principles that are slowly, but surely, infusing the minds and hearts of worship pastors, mission leaders, and laypeople around the world.

If you don’t feel comfortable calling yourself an ethnodoxologist just yet, then at least help us out a little. Next time you hear the phrase “music is a universal language,” do the world a favor and speak up! Point out that music systems, more than any verbal language, are culture specific and must be learned to be understood. Music, although universally found in every culture, is not a universal language!

Published originally in Worship Leader Magazine (Nov/Dec 2009, pp. 26-28).