24 Jul GS 2013 art 174
GS 2013 Article 174 – Appeal of Fergus-Maranatha re: Addition of Hymns
Committee 1 presented its proposal. After some discussion, this was the result:
1. Material:
Letter from the church at Fergus-Maranatha in which they appeal a decision of Synod Burlington 2010 to add new hymns to the Book of Praise (presumably Article 142) (8.5.27)
2. Observation:
- 2.1. Fergus-Maranatha mentions that it sent a letter to Synod Burlington 2010 regarding the addition of hymns and it is now ‘extending’ its position with this appeal.
- 2.2. Fergus-Maranatha does not indicate which article of the Acts of Synod Burlington 2010 it is appealing.
- 2.3. Fergus-Maranatha brings forward many quotes from church fathers and others throughout church history to show that the introduction of new hymns led to deviation from the truth.
- 2.4. Fergus-Maranatha mentions four Bible texts (Deuteronomy 12:8, 32; Amos 5:23; 8:10; Isaiah 23:16), which it claims prove that we should not introduce hymns.
3. Consideration:
- 3.1. It is not clear which decision Fergus-Maranatha is appealing, nor is there interaction with actual decisions of Synod Burlington 2010.
- 3.2. Using quotes from historical figures does not provide new evidence that the introduction of hymns is against Scripture or Church Order.
- 3.3. The quotes from Scripture do not speak about the use of hymns and are taken out of context. Fergus-Maranatha does not provide new Scriptural evidence which shows that the introduction of hymns is unbiblical (Article 31 CO)
4. Recommendation:
That Synod deny the appeal of Fergus-Maranatha.