A doxology is a hymn of praise to God. There are several doxologies in the Bible:
“To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ forever. Amen.” —Romans 16:27
“Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.” —Ephesians 3:21
“To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. —Jude 25
One of the most familiar extra-biblical doxologies was written by Thomas Ken (1637 – 1711).
“Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heav’nly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost!
Praise God the Father who’s the source;
Praise God the Son who is the course;
Praise God the Spirit who’s the flow;
Praise God, our portion here below!”
This particular doxology is often sung during a worship service following the collection of an offering.
Perhaps another appropriate occasion for the singing of this doxology is when an elder, pastor, teacher, deacon, is formally installed in office during a service. It would be very appropriate to thank God from whom all blessings flow, including the gifted individuals He has given to the Church to help her. “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ” (Eph. 4:11, 12).
It is important for a congregation to recognize and use those whom God has gifted and brought into the assembly.
Unfortunately, in a highly technological age, a transition can be made from using the gifts of God in the assembly, to the convenience of electronics. Individuals are relegated to the sideline in favor of more gifted singers, teachers, or preachers—by electronic means.
The gifts of God for the people of God are not only under-utilized, often, they are not wanted. The leadership makes that very plain by benign neglect. No one is rude. No one is ugly. No one has to say anything. Just let those who are gifted sit in the pew and wilt. Let their spiritual gift diminish until their desire to serve flames out, or they transition to a place where they can be of some use.
For what it is worth, religious leaders, do not neglect the gifts of God. The apostle Paul had to tell Timothy, “Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery” (1 Tim. 4:14). In that same apostolic spirit, let the Church be exhorted to neglect not the gifts that God has given to you. They are in the pew. They wait to serve. Do not neglect them.
