What is wrong with Christian Contemporary Music and Rock?

[Guest Guest]

1) If songs are written by the lost or heretics, their theology/doctrine will be off. What you put into your mind and heart will influence you - and that is Biblical.

2) Is God pleased when we play/sing music written by those who never knew Him? We say we are doing it out of worship to Him - but frankly, you make it all so selfish and carnal. Why don't we read some verses out of the Satanic Bible or the Book of Mormon, as long as we are thinking about God? Would He be pleased with that kind of worship? Of course not. Well, why wouldn't our choice of songs and music matter to Him too?

The context of this passage is interesting, in considering our worship mixed with wrong elements:

2 Kings 17:25 And so it was at the beginning of their dwelling there, that they feared not the LORD: therefore the LORD sent lions among them, which slew some of them.

2 Kings 17:27-28 Then the king of Assyria commanded, saying, Carry thither one of the priests whom ye brought from thence; and let them go and dwell there, and let him teach them the manner of the God of the land. Then one of the priests whom they had carried away from Samaria came and dwelt in Bethel, and taught them how they should fear the LORD.

2 Kings 17:32-36 So they feared the LORD, and made unto themselves of the lowest of them priests of the high places, which sacrificed for them in the houses of the high places. They feared the LORD, and served their own gods, after the manner of the nations whom they carried away from thence. Unto this day they do after the former manners: they fear not the LORD, neither do they after their statutes, or after their ordinances, or after the law and commandment which the LORD commanded the children of Jacob, whom he named Israel; With whom the LORD had made a covenant, and charged them, saying, Ye shall not fear other gods, nor bow yourselves to them, nor serve them, nor sacrifice to them: But the LORD, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt with great power and a stretched out arm, him shall ye fear, and him shall ye worship, and to him shall ye do sacrifice.

2 Kings 17:41 So these nations feared the LORD, and served their graven images, both their children, and their children's children: as did their fathers, so do they unto this day.

God wasn't too happy with the worship of the heathen... They feared the Lord AND served their own gods - they feared the Lord AND worshipped God their own way - which He wasn't too pleased with!

But my point is you do not like CCM so why should others follow your lead? The biblical standards that you stress are not there. You sing songs written by who? You know them personally? and more importantly their salvation? WOW I sing them because they give glory to God It even goes with new CCM artists if they say and live Christ like then why are they labeled and the music is condemned or considered not meeting Baptist standards (should we not strive to meet CHRISTS standards) Face it there is no biblical standard on music only tradition. These verses talk about idols and things not singing a song like "Empty Me" or "Here I am to Worship" or even "Jesus Freak." I personally thank GOD for these songs they are ALL written and performed by people who walk and talk aChrist like life.

[manofconviction]

God is very clear about how we are to worship Him in His word. Many of the song writers have a history behind the music they write. Some of the songs that I enjoy evoke strong emotions form me (and others that listen to them). After the emotion and pleasure of the song, what is left is the strength that God has generously given me through faith.
Praise God for Christians who demand scriptural music. :thumb

[Guest Guest]

God is very clear about how we are to worship Him in His word. Many of the song writers have a history behind the music they write. Some of the songs that I enjoy evoke strong emotions form me (and others that listen to them). After the emotion and pleasure of the song, what is left is the strength that God has generously given me through faith.
Praise God for Christians who demand scriptural music. :thumb

And if it is a guy/girl pouring his/her heart out with meaning and the song is sciptual it does not matter what equipment he uses! If that is the case then why are you all on the devils internet? (That should be a thread because if you all are against tech., t.v., electric guitars, drums (which biblically are percussion ints.) than Why are you on the devils internet?
Have those of you who bash CCM ever heard the testimonies of those who wrote the songs? Their songs are based on scripture read the lyrics. Open your bible.

[Jerry]

Been there, done that - and many CCM artists fail on the lack of Biblical quality when it comes to their lyrics. Many others fail on their testimony of salvation (ie. doesn't line up), with their false doctrine, with their worldliness in clothing and appearance. You can't walk the walk and talk the talk without lining up with God's Word - otherwise, it's just wishful thinking...

[Guest Guest]

Been there' date=' done that - and many CCM artists fail on the lack of Biblical quality when it comes to their lyrics. Many others fail on their testimony of salvation (ie. doesn't line up), with their false doctrine, with their worldliness in clothing and appearance. You can't [i']walk the walk and talk the talk without lining up with God's Word - otherwise, it's just wishful thinking...

I agree with you. I am an artist and have listened and went to many CCM shows and I have only been let down by 1 mainstream CCM artist. WE are talking about 100 or so of the current bands, so saying many is not accurate like another Jerry says it is exaggerating. I am a Jesus Freak so I critically look and listen to the music and go through it with my Baptist comb and I can honestly say only 1 band has not met the criteria of honoring CHRIST. Admit it it is a 1. tradition thing 2. cultural thing and 3. Style thing. Has nothing to do with biblical standards. Just this past Saturday I witnessed a group of MC's talk more about Christ and what he has done and was doing for them and they used many scriptual references. They were most definantly preaching. I ask what is wrong with that? Because it is rap(or what people call rap?) I personally have never listened to any type of music that being the piano or organ played on Sunday to the rappers that I heard this weekend where my heart 1st did not get right or where my foot did not tap.
I am still waiting for the list of IFB hymns that we all sing on Sunday? If there is a list and you can cite the sources I will stop my argument that there is NOTHING BIBLICALLY WRONG WITH new hymns.

[Guest Guest]

Just thinking about something 50 Cent says he is saved and a Baptist and I believe him. Someday, CHRIST will use him for the GLORY of his kingdom if he has not already. Remember, he has been shot 9 times GOD saved him for a reason.

[Guest Guest]

I personally admire Jerry's stance (not only his but others' as well' date=' those of you who have similar convinctions). They offer a great example for 'young' Christians. I would definitely want to arrive at that point where I only listen to appropriate Christian music, still I'm not much of a music fan.[/quote']


Hi Susanna. If you read Mark 7:1-23...you will notice that Jesus is teaching and training His leadership team. Jesus is telling His disciples that they need to serve from their hearts. At this point in scripture...Jesus is one year away from the cross. So, basically it is a countdown to the cross.

A lot of the Pharisees had rules they intended men to live by. They believed that they had to govern in a way that was man-made or artificial. They had 600 rules and guidelines, at that time, that were added to God's authority for man. Did God need their help? LOL...No. These laws were a detailed list of "do's and dont's". While their intentions were probably good...they went about it the wrong way. Of course, we have the same problem today.

God is only interested in the fact that we are moving closer to Him. Are we growing in our walk with Christ? Are we moving forwards or backwards? That conviction can only come from an individual's heart. For example, what are our motives when listening to good Godly music at home, our cars, or anywhere besides church? Are we listening to it because we want to listen to it? Is someone forcing or expecting us to listen to it...and, we are concerned that if we don't, they will find out? Of course, this is only your decision to make...no one can make that choice for you. Spiritual growth is what is important in our walk with the Lord. God bless you. :wave:

[Jerry]

Actually, the OT Jew had 613 laws that were from the Pentateuch - not man-made. Of course, they had more legalistic rules that they made and added to what God had said - but the 613 laws were from God Himself.

I am an artist and have listened and went to many CCM shows and I have only been let down by 1 mainstream CCM artist. WE are talking about 100 or so of the current bands, so saying many is not accurate like another Jerry says it is exaggerating. I am a Jesus Freak so I critically look and listen to the music and go through it with my Baptist comb and I can honestly say only 1 band has not met the criteria of honoring CHRIST.

You're dreaming if you think the lyrics of the average CCM artist is Biblically sound. I am not saying there are no groups out there with basically Biblical lyrics - but that is a very small amount compared to the vast amount of CCM artists out there. Being vague is not sound - skipping out on the name of Jesus or Christ is not sound - having false doctrine, questionable lyrics, lyrics that don't draw a clear line are not sound - beliving another gospel, denying Jesus .

Of course, lyrics are not the only criteria - how are they living? Some CCM artists have been exposed for their addictions to pornography, for adultery or fornication, some sporting tattoos and piercings, some men and women wearing immodest clothing, some men with long hair and women with short hair - and these are all Biblical standards - not personal standards - lines that God draws in His Word, not just based on principles that may be partly subjective.

[Guest Guest]

Actually' date=' the OT Jew had 613 laws that were from the Pentateuch - not man-made. Of course, they had more legalistic rules that they made and added to what God had said - but the 613 laws were from God Himself.[/quote']


Thanks for the correction, Jerry. :thumb Imagine what the "legalistic rules" were? :puzzled:

[Guest Guest]

Just thinking about something 50 Cent says he is saved and a Baptist and I believe him. Someday, CHRIST will use him for the GLORY of his kingdom if he has not already. Remember, he has been shot 9 times GOD saved him for a reason.

I am exposed to rock, rap, country, etc. all the time at work. I don't CHOOSE to hear it but I am going to hear it whether I agree with it or not. My coworkers also talk about their music and various "artists" all the time. I stay at least somewhat up to date on the worlds music by default. "50 Cent" is of his father the devil. period. The man is as lost as he can be, his songs and his life reflect that.

The mere suggestion that the Holy Spirit is compatible with that sort of lost, hopeless, ungodly state is getting very close to blasphemy...

[Guest Guest]

Actually, the OT Jew had 613 laws that were from the Pentateuch - not man-made. Of course, they had more legalistic rules that they made and added to what God had said - but the 613 laws were from God Himself.



You're dreaming if you think the lyrics of the average CCM artist is Biblically sound. I am not saying there are no groups out there with basically Biblical lyrics - but that is a very small amount compared to the vast amount of CCM artists out there. Being vague is not sound - skipping out on the name of Jesus or Christ is not sound - having false doctrine, questionable lyrics, lyrics that don't draw a clear line are not sound - beliving another gospel, denying Jesus .

Of course, lyrics are not the only criteria - how are they living? Some CCM artists have been exposed for their addictions to pornography, for adultery or fornication, some sporting tattoos and piercings, some men and women wearing immodest clothing, some men with long hair and women with short hair - and these are all Biblical standards - not personal standards - lines that God draws in His Word, not just based on principles that may be partly subjective.

THEY ARE NOT VAGUE BROTHER. All but 1 out of more than 100 of the mainstream CCM artists and upincoming artist have preached the same Gospel you believe in and preach. Hear me they do use the name of Jesus and anyways many hymns you sing in church do not mention the name Jesus Christ. Put the "biblical standards" you claim the bible teaches into context. JESUS had long hair. If a women wears immodest clothing it is terrible but if that women wearing immodest clothing comes to know Christ. AMEN. I read a study awhile ago and women are the most turned on by a mans appearance when #1 They where a suit and tie. So why do Pastors wear clothing that might be a stumblingblock for their flock?
You are very off on this issue if you do not wish to listen to music other than your voice that is your business but many of the points you make on this issue are wrong. Once again there is NOTHING WRONG WITH Christian Contemporary Music and Rock? Remember Satan is everywhere so to single out CCM is wrong it is simply Baptist Tradition not Biblical standard that the only God honoring songs are old Hymns. Just look at postings for Pastors seeking a church "IFB Pastor looking for a church "Traditional" in Worship."
Please provide for me a List of CCM artists you have listened to and thus can say are wrong and then we can dispute if their music is or is not God honoring.
Just a side note a Pastor gave a sermon on Gifts so I asked him if my son could play his drums to honor God he said "no." I then said but you let a piano in the Chruch and that is not in the Bible he said its "percussion and that is mentioned in the bible" (acting all smart he turned away). I tapped him on the shoulder and said "What are drums classified as?" I just wonder why preach on Gifts and then not honor God by letting the gifts he has given to his people to be used in the local Chruch for HIS ministry. Are we maybe limiting GOD to keep Baptist Tradition? The only gift that Preacher wanted someone to use was the gift of cleaning the toilet he had no desire to actually let people use their gift.

[Guest Guest]

JESUS had long hair.

:lies:

[manofconviction]

It's a difficult question and has many points of view. I will not say all CCM music is bad, it has been said that we need to look at the "walk" of the artist, how do they use their God given time talent and treasure. For many, this is difficult to discern. It also has to do with spiritual maturity and if any kind of music cause us to sin. I have "baggage" from my pre Christian days and would find myself daydreaming of the old "fun" that I used to have. Some music evokes strong emotion, is the person spiritually mature to deal with that type of swing (emotional), what's left after the emotion wears off? I hope the are spiritually prepared. I would rather avoid the temptation all together by staying with music that is above reproach. :2cents

[Jerry]

Again, Tank, if you are anti-Baptist, why are you here?

I did not become anti-CCM because of some Baptist tradition - I became it before I became a Baptist.

All but 1 out of more than 100 of the mainstream CCM artists and upincoming artist have preached the same Gospel you believe in and preach.

I am not talking about their preaching - but about their lyrics. Show me one song from each artist you recommend that clearly presents the Gospel - ie. enough Biblical content in the song to get someone saved. I daresay you will probably not be able to come up with more than a handful out of those same artists.

[Guest Guest]

Again, Tank, if you are anti-Baptist, why are you here?

I did not become anti-CCM because of some Baptist tradition - I became it before I became a Baptist.

All but 1 out of more than 100 of the mainstream CCM artists and upincoming artist have preached the same Gospel you believe in and preach.

I am not talking about their preaching - but about their lyrics. Show me one song from each artist you recommend that clearly presents the Gospel - ie. enough Biblical content in the song to get someone saved. I daresay you will probably not be able to come up with more than a handful out of those same artists.

No, you list all the hymns that have enough Biblical content to get someone saved. Jerry you have no idea about CCM and therefore should not discuss the artists and what they stand for. I think it is horrible when a preacher spends an hour on CCM and how bad it is and has never listened to it. It seems to me this might be you. I know I can. Can you? (come up with hymns that totally speak about salvation) let me know when your ready. I am calling your bluff Hymns we all sing on Sunday Brother.

On A side note "Again, Tank, if you are anti-Baptist, why are you here?" I am against tradition IFB should operate with a CHRIST FIRST mindset rather then Baptist tradition first (reminds me of the Cath. Church). Your argument against CCM has no biblical standing. Name 15 CCM songs off the top of your head and I will give you a prop.
I ask you Jerry, If you are too Baptist for us why are you here? I follow CHRIST not John the Baptist. Tank