That situation seems to me to be an issue of a really bad mix (can’t hear vocals over the music) and incorrect stage setup (vocalists near amps). It is much better to have speakers/main amps/etc. in front of the team and a separate monitor mix for the stage for the vocalists and musicians.

But I digress.

About amplification in Scripture: Yes, there were no electronic amplification systems, but Even in Biblical times, the sound of trumpets, cymbals and other musical instruments combined with shouts and the voices of many people singing would have in fact, been quite loud. Especially those times when these things were utilized in the setting of the Temple. A decibel is a decibel, whether it is sound that has been amplified or is simply acoustically loud. I’ve attended evenings at the symphony that were louder than the worship band at my church.

Of course, “loud” doesn’t mean “burst ear drums.” Maybe worship leaders should use a decibel meter in rehearsals to avoid reaching damaging levels? Perhaps. But definitely there should be some kind of protection for the ones who are playing instruments and leading who are closer to amplification systems. (See above)

But I think the general idea is that worship of the Living God should be joyful and exuberant as opposed to dull and lifeless. And the “shouting and loud instruments” have certainly been used and approved at various times in Scripture.

Thanks for stopping by and contributing your insight, Betty!