“Expedient” is defined as: a means of attaining an end. When choice is granted us by God, we often use the term “expedient” to designate that choice.
Using Ephesians 5:19 for an example, the Holy Spirit authorizes us to speak “to one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.” The authorization to sing comes with choices, or expediencies. We can utilize song books, or project the notes and lyrics on a screen. We can get the proper pitch, using a pitch pipe. We can appoint a man to start the song, and maintain the proper tempo. All of these things are choices that expedite, help carry out, the command to sing.
Paul wrote, “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient” (1 Corinthians 6:12). Not everything that is allowed (lawful) helps in carrying out God’s commands. However, in order for something to expedite the carrying out of such commands it must FIRST be LAWFUL!
Expedients are choices allowed within a thing authorized by God. In contrast to the choices mentioned above, a mechanical instrument of music is not an expedient to singing. It is not a choice made to aid in carrying out God’s command to sing. Instead, it is an ADDITION to God’s command, something different.
If song books or four part harmony are used in carrying out the command, all we do is sing. However, when an instrument is used, we sing AND PLAY.
The difference is stark and easily comprehended. For a thing to be EXPEDIENT it must first be LAWFUL.
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