The description in the title above is how a symphony may be defined or characterized. Those who enjoy music may marvel at how all of the diverse instruments harmonize together. The stringed instruments, the woodwinds, the brass horns, even the percussion section all unite to produce a sound melodious to the ears–a symphony.
The Greek word sumphonia is translated “music” in Luke 15:25, referring to the sounds that the older brother heard in honor of the return of the prodigal son. Of course, he greatly disapproved of the celebration. His was the dissenting voice of dissatisfaction in an otherwise harmonious chorus of jubilant souls welcoming the dead back to life.
This is the only instance of this word (in any of its related forms) being translated “music.” The verb form appears six times in the New Testament, and every time it is translated “agree” (Matt. 18: 19, 20:2, 13; Luke 5:36; Acts 5:9, 15:15).
There can be agreement in things that are good or in some evil enterprise. Ananias and Sapphira agreed concerning the lie they told. Such was complete harmony, but for no good purpose. False witnesses and false teachers also fit into this category.
Another form of the word is found in 2 Cor. 6: 15, in which the question is asked, “And what accord has Christ with Belial?” The issue of fellowship is raised here, with which the church still struggles.
The final form of the word is found in 1 Cor. 7: 5, in which couples are urged not to abstain from the sexual relationship within marriage except it be by consent (agreement) for a time.
The dictionary traces the modern word symphony back to the Greek word just examined, and although the definition could be applied to music back then, the New Testament uses it most of the time in the context of “agreement.”
How wonderful it would be if when Jesus looked at the church, He saw “a harmonious combination of elements.” Some brethren may be as refined as a violin or as noisy and boisterous as a bass drum, but all can blend together in worship and service. The church may be composed of people as different as musical instruments, but through following the Scriptures the body of Christ can become a beautiful symphony, worshiping and working together in harmony and unity.