I had a conversation with someone earlier this week who was condemning the music of today's Christian artists because it's "loud" and "rhythmic" and "extreme." Such music, because it may provoke a physical response, he dismissed as "sexual." His judgment reminded me of Michal, King David's wife, who mocked her husband for the "vulgar" way he was "leaping and dancing before the LORD." God's judgment against her? Barrenness.
I'm learning not to be so quick to write something off as ungodly simply because it's not my preference. After all, the Lord's ways are not like my ways. And where Scripture doesn't express a clear judgment, perhaps I should be slow to express mine. At least in the realm of music.
Read the rest and check out the comments.
If you want to read my take on some of these issues you might want to read this series I did a few months back in reference to the book, "Can We Rock The Gospel?".
3 comments:
Y'know, I'm sure it's just me - my problem - but I find poor workmanship or dumb lyrics distracting in church. For example, there is a woman with an absolutely lovely voice who likes to sing for our congregation. The problem is that the music she uses is pre-recorded. It's just canned. We have several talented musicians who could accompany her but instead this shortcut is used. I'm not really sure why. It seems like we could try to do really good work in honor of the King of kings - like we should do our best. I dunno. Like I said, probably my problem.
Sara,
I find that when "poor workmanship" or "dumb lyrics" are defined by the leaders in your church these issues can be dealt with in a positive way. What I mean is, if the leaders are cool with what is going on, then that is probably the hand you have been dealt. Everyone will define these matters differently and it's up to the local congregation to decide.
z
True.
Just to be clear - I struggle with this because I love these people and I realize it is my own silliness that is getting in the way. I don't necessarily think anyone else should change anything - just wondering about my own distractibility.
Also, I'm not trashing any musical genre.
Interestingly enough, the same day my Pastor asked for volunteers to round out the music team for the summer and I was so disappointed that I have no musical skill to give.
Anyway, thanks. I enjoy reading here.
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