Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
This verse describes a Christian with a deep and vibrant relationship with Christ. If we are allowing the word of Christ to grip us in this way, songs will overflow.
They are not songs that reflect a joyful heart alone. It is also a wise heart, one that is instructed enough to teach and admonish (or exhort) others. And these songs must bear a theological load. They impart wisdom and convey sound doctrine. Directly from scripture, saturated in Biblical principle, and spiritual in nature, they speak.
Were it not for the rich indwelling of His word, these may indeed be carnal songs. They would perhaps contain His name, but lack the vitality that only comes from close fellowship. It is the changed heart from which the evidence of this close fellowship streams.
We must never forget the audience. Our songs teach and help fellow believers, but they are intended for the Lord.
Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”