NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Theologian Sinclair Ferguson told thousands of Christians gathered at the Sing! Conference that singing is woven into the fabric of creation and redemption, stressing that Jesus Christ, and not musicians or worship leaders, is ultimately the One who leads the Church in praise.
“There may be worship coordinators, there may be instrumentalists, there may be cantors, but there is only one song leader, and His name is Jesus,” Ferguson said Tuesday evening at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Ferguson, a Scottish theologian, author and longtime pastor, delivered his message during the 10th annual Sing! Conference, led by hymn writers Keith and Kristyn Getty. Held Sept.
7-9, this year's gathering, themed “Symphony of Scripture,” marks 500 years since William Tyndale's English New Testament and examines how Scripture has shaped the worship and life of the Church. Former Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam opened Tuesday evening's gathering in prayer, asking that the night would honor God and that those present would worship with humility.
“Father God, it is you who [is] God, and the cattle on a thousand hills are yours, and the hills are yours too,” Haslam prayed. “We know that you love humble hearts, and we know that you love hearts that worship you.” Haslam also expressed gratitude for the Gettys and their work in leading Christians in worship. “We pray for tonight that because of tonight we would know you more,” he said.
“That because of tonight, your glory would resound through this place and throughout the world.” Ferguson's message centered on the biblical foundations of singing, tracing the theme of worship from creation through the Psalms and ultimately to Christ. He began with creation, arguing that the triune God is the creator of music and Himself delights in song. Citing Job 38, where the