We define the word “symphony” as an intricate composition of music. I imagine that diverse parts are coordinated into a whole and fit the composer’s design. We get our word “symphony” from the Greek word symphonia. It’s a compound word, and the two parts mean “together” “sound.” It’s not the case that every word that looks like a similar English word has a similar meaning. Nor is it the case that every word’s meaning is like the parts of the word that make it up. Though, this is what symphonia does.
Two hundred and fifty years before Jesus was born, the Septuagint used this word in Daniel 3 to describe the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre and psaltery together “in symphony” (vs. 5, 7, 10, 15). The usage of the word didn’t change much in the next two and a half centuries. In Luke 15, Jesus’ description of the celebration of the return of the prodigal son described the older brother drawing near and hearing “music.” Using this word picture, we have a vivid illustration of how inspiration works. When the addition of Gentiles to the church was a point of sharp contention, there was a meeting in Jerusalem to discuss the matter. The simple, yet important, decision was that the Scriptures taught it was always in God’s plan for the Gentiles to be part of the church. Before elaborating with Old Testament Scripture, James began his case explaining, “…with this the words of the prophets agree…” (Acts 15:15 NKJV).
“Agree” is translated from a word related to “symphony.” “Holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Peter 1:21). “All Scripture is given by the inspiration of God…” (2 Timothy 3:16). “Inspiration” is a compound word meaning “God-breathed.” From the beginning of time, God has sounded through his instruments – the prophets. They each, with their distinct voices, contributed parts to the chorus. At the time of their performance, the speakers did not often know how their part would fit into the whole (1 Peter 1:10-12). They were ridiculed – even killed – for their seemingly misplaced roles (Matthew 5:11, 12; 23:29-32). As the Composer and Director designed, in due time, Christ died for the ungodly (Romans 5:6). The crescendo of our Father’s piece came into immaculate harmony as Jesus bore the sins of all mankind, defeated death and ascended to sit on His throne. The main symphony He composed can be seen blended together in the pages of His Word today, having been spoken and written just as He moved His servants to speak and write. Are you listening?
