Music for Christians, What is ok and what is not?

[Hobie]

Music can have a strong influence and effect, even the words in the music. It can be called 'Christian Rock', but if it excites the wrong kind of feelings or leads Christians to other forms of expressions that have nothing to do with singing for the glory of God, as has been the case of many former singers in the church choir, then you have to look at it as what it is. A temptation, a first step to further sin, a direction to living in the world and its lustful pleasures. It may look innocent at first, but the flow of its pull soon shows itself, and next thing you know you find yourself in the world and out of the church. So what is ok for Christians, and what is not...

 

[David]

Music can have a strong influence and effect, even the words in the music. It can be called 'Christian Rock', but if it excites the wrong kind of feelings or leads Christians to other forms of expressions that have nothing to do with singing for the glory of God, as has been the case of many former singers in the church choir, then you have to look at it as what it is. A temptation, a first step to further sin, a direction to living in the world and its lustful pleasures. It may look innocent at first, but the flow of its pull soon shows itself, and next thing you know you find yourself in the world and out of the church. So what is ok for Christians, and what is not...

Wow, now that is a good question. I know for myself music sure has a lot of influence in someone’s life and the way they act. Music is a spiritual conduit. It transports a message straight into your heart. That’s why Paul instructed us in Ephesians 5: 19 to sing “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with all your heart and giving thanks to God the Father”

Okay, here’s the bottom line: the issue isn’t beat or groove, it’s direction. David danced before the Lord with all his strength (2 Samuel 6:14). If the beat is leading you closer to Christ, that’s worship. If the beat tempts you to lust, rebellion, or pride, that’s not worship, that’s pollution. Romans 12: 2 says, “Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Here’s the litmus test: Can you press play in Jesus’ name? Colossians 3: 17 says “whatever you do, do all in the name of Jesus.” If the song exalts Christ, declares truth, and lifts your heart in thanksgiving, turn it up. But if it reflects the world and leaves you more energized for sin than the Savior, you better hit pause.

Think of it this way: what you fill up your car with will determine how it runs. If you put good fuel in it, you can drive all over town. But if you pour sugar in the gas tank, you won’t make it down the street. The same is true for the songs you pour into your heart. It will either power your worship, or clog your engine with junk.

Worship is about giving God glory with all your heart and strength, even your playlist.