Derek Thornton

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 ESV)

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Regulative vs. Normative?

There are two ideas on how men can worship the Lord.

The Regulative Principle which basically says that nothing is allowed that is not commanded in scripture.

The Normative Principle that basically says that anything is allowed that is not forbidden by scripture.

In my opinion, the Regulative Principle can be too strict and relies far too much on OT laws, while NT worship is far less regulated. Also people that espouse this view usually exhibit very little tolerance with the opposing view.

On the other hand, people that follow the Normative Principle can tend to get a little overboard and not be as discerning as they should about what they allow in worship.

I admit towards leaning towards the Normative Principle far more.

That being said, I think there is a deeper question here that both sides forget.

Is the worship edifying?

Filed under regulative normative edification worship

  1. derekthornton posted this