To add one more thought to this video: Please don’t just take my word for it, but go and read the Bible for yourself. That is so so important!🙌🏻 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:16-17 ESV
I’ve been a Worship Leader for 40 years. I learned early on that “Worship” is not about me - it’s about Jesus. I was taught to lead His people into the Throne Room of God and then get out of the way. Back in the 80’s, we referred to this as being an “Invisible Worship Leader”. I was taught to keep it simple. It was not my time to express myself artistically to them. It was their time to express themselves lovingly to Him. It was all about getting intimately lost in His Presence. The Numinous of God was all anyone needed. It didn’t matter who was leading. In fact, the best times of worship, were led by nameless, faceless individuals. These values have remained with me to this day. Because I refused to change my approach, I eventually became obsolete. I can’t find a single church anywhere that wants what I have to offer anymore. So, after 40 years, I’m done. There is nothing more frustrating to me than watching worship leaders perform on stage while their congregation stands and watches - as if it were a concert. It’s no different than a chef eating a gourmet meal he prepared in front of starving people. So, its become very difficult even going to church. God, lead your people back to their knees. Give us a hunger again for you. Teach us once again how to become lovers and worshipers of you, rather than song singers and spectators.
@Steve Stark there's so much wisdom in what you have shared, and I wanted to let you know that I appreciate it so much. I am 21, and been on the worship team at my church for a couple years now (and before that, I was leading worship in youth group, which is so funny to me because I have always been so introverted... God certainly has a way of getting me out of my comfort zone, haha!). It is so true what you have said... I am really learning through this experience that it is NOT about ME. In a way, it takes some pressure off me because I get uncomfortable up there if I think that people are focusing on me. I always get nervous, haha! But, I'm thankful for it because I think the Lord uses that to help keep me humble, and to glorify himself because I NEVER would have thought I would be someone to help lead worship on a Sunday in FRONT of people! I have always been on the side of shy, meek, mild, and reserved. But, I am so thankful that the Lord has given me the opportunity to be used in this way because, I love music, worshipping God, and knowing that I am an encouragement to others to worhip Him as well! I'm so glad that it's not about me! Thank you again for sharing your wisdom (I will have to take a screen shot so I can look back). I share your concerns for what is happening in the church now when it comes to worship music and the rock concert atmosphere. My Pastor was just talking about how Christians do not fear God as we should, and as a result, we try to pull Him down to OUR level. Again, thank you for your wisdom, it is inspiring to me. And thank you for all those years you served the Lord, and others as a worship leader. God bless you!
Its EASY to find out if it is biblical or not, just take away the bells and whistles of the MUSIC and read the words to see if the message is Godly! Its THAT simple! ;)
@@sally-kella Well, I DO and I am writing a book about it and God already told me in a dream (as he speaks to me in them almost NIGHTLY) that i will one day be a successful author! If you can not believe what I say here, then what makes me believe that you would believe a testimony, if I were to stand on the church stage and give one? Should I not be mocked by everyone? So why should I tell my "brothers and sisters" anything about my life? Please think about that one for a minute.
The short answer to the question posed by the video is, because many people's faith is shallow, possibly even fake. Much of the music today, and not just Christian music, is produced using a formula to maximize popularity and profit. It's devoid of true faith and passion.
ive listened to it. im atheist but i know a guy. its toxic trash. its adults begging to be let into heaven despite being broken and weak. like children begging. its pathetic.
My name is David, I am Mexican and I am 19 years old. In my language (Spanish) the amount of Christian music that I can recommend can be counted on the fingers of ... one hand, so I was forced to look for Christian music in English. My family found sound doctrine a couple of years ago, I am ashamed to just remember the kind of music that it called "Christian" and now that I am studying music I realize that not only should it not be called Christian music, but in a technical aspect it is complete trash, mediocre, lazy and despicable and I feel no remorse in calling it that way. It's going to sound funny but I learned English in less than 7 or 6 months, it was unconscious, I didn't even realize it, in a sense it's because I watched a lot of documentaries and debates in English, (a channel that I really like is called "Journey to the micro cosmos "and it helped me a lot to learn English) and Christian music in English was a great catalyst for learning quickly. It is incredible how many artists I have had to discard over time, but God has given me discernment. Countless times I came to perceive something that did not give me confidence and later my suspicions were confirmed. Artists like "Page cxvi" are unfortunately flashy within circles of sound doctrine but they shouldn't be. It is almost as if Christian music is cowardly, afraid to be explicit about God and his word and sincerely, while trying to please the world, to be "carnal-friendly" they sacrifice potential masterpieces in the process. They spend a lot on creating flashy music but not so much on pleasing God. There is nothing wrong with making good music and making it sound good, but if your music sounds good but does not have biblical content, it is comparable to having only the body of a Ferrari without an engine or machinery, it only attracts attention but it does not have I will put here some artists of good Christian music that I recommend: -Indelible grace music: open.spotify.com/artist/0HoHU8SXe0g9jJGOfL8rDq?si=wyRaAZObS7mGEzHWrAb_sQ&dl_branch=1 -St. Andrews hymns: open.spotify.com/artist/1X0LWRcdNgYOWiGEd6ahuG?si=96fd33f6f3954d28 -Norton Hall band: open.spotify.com/artist/7lYCHQLcDqNrJjIgKAEkje?si=a01840d74e1344f7 -Grace community church: open.spotify.com/artist/482tMtths00HBjPirXBeGv?si=b8050a9c855e4b23 -Red mountain church: open.spotify.com/artist/2sHZLtiGJbXHAShjJIurVo?si=sWqHP3kdROOSpLKrQd9-ew&dl_branch=1 -High street hymns (I just found it, but so far it sounds fine): open.spotify.com/artist/5iPCh0oqsz1m0henXpovFe?si=816MuitpTmO_YkXx5XIoLA&dl_branch=1 -Matt Boswell: open.spotify.com/artist/2cRQc5dlsvrO2lVLCgdugm?si=Gc5FvXOURG-H1S1Hy4335w&dl_branch=1 -Keith & Kristyn Getty: open.spotify.com/artist/0I4Bk2s2BUJyykCwtxx8Xx?si=4dc3af564f3e42f8 -Sovereign grace music: open.spotify.com/artist/6MYKRhEIKscR8qdGlvpk9y?si=Uo3sM4n9QxiXcgJRPs9D6Q&dl_branch=1 -The worship initiative: open.spotify.com/artist/1bMkQIx4MpNHLxoylvipdQ?si=sIYS_UtkSUiXinSHSHOiYw&dl_branch=1 --Shane & Shane: open.spotify.com/artist/2LFbgsbEhfilNpQYW7mied?si=0W7WmDgfR8qrWqCr2yjTmw&dl_branch=1 -Psallos: open.spotify.com/artist/15fK8R2vYkiBoNiyVBIyuY?si=ILIwNET-TpuUoskqv0p39A&dl_branch=1 -Alisa Turner (My favorite): open.spotify.com/artist/02ysP9OjODcaMSXe6SHAre?si=yMqENqF1RceI7flTGnvLAg&dl_branch=1 I ran into someone named Jonathan Ogden in this comment section so I'll put it under evaluation (I was listening to one of his songs while writing this comment and in a song called "With you" at the beginning there was a section of a preaching by Martyn Lloyd-Jones, I do not want to jump to conclusions but that will certainly serve as a reference, Martyn Lloyd -Jones was a good servant of God, a great preacher.): open.spotify.com/artist/2Q1d40J0u4IWGg4oZNPBZ7?si=Vg6VIbf-SJGWeYBREgzg7Q&dl_branch=1 (Now, music for people that speak in spanish) Marcos Vidal: open.spotify.com/artist/03CueHDpVcwXQZHeBlZUkd?si=OZPwGXr6QgGQh9xXgYRLRg&dl_branch=1 Doulos: open.spotify.com/artist/6QOoxSo6XilQR5Lsyze0Ez?si=sjROTxgsQNSoA-STUOZTGg&dl_branch=1 Ira y gracia (casi no han subido a spotify pero tienen más canciones en su canal de youtube así que les hice una playlist): open.spotify.com/artist/3UfQl08Efhm4pTSrHgWGs1?si=W-3w3f6VTfuGrVrDM8FkDA&dl_branch=1 ru-vid.com/group/PLbRW15UAkmiJhZRn981Shrvt2eLuAgb0t En espíritu y en verdad (difiero con como hacen sus conciertos y lo escandalosa que es muchas veces su música pero mayormente es música bíblica): open.spotify.com/artist/39m45GawtjXnazyVoEGkfb?si=NapKX375SXmcJ0diYU3Uuw&dl_branch=1 Samuel Barceló (lo encontré gracias a Paul Washer): open.spotify.com/artist/05TksqXGcgrWwY3fzhyOXK?si=hCdp8-zVR2-0yvirf-1zUw&dl_branch=1 Another song that i like a lot: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-B8nx_VAtQ7o.html If you find more music or know any other artist with good and biblical Christian music in either Spanish or English, respond to this comment. I am preparing to make Christian music in my language in a few years. I have created the sketch of at least 35 pieces but ... I don't have a good voice, I only know how to play piano (guitar and drums soon) so I hope to get to know other Christians who share my vision of the Christian life and of music so that we can make music together. My spirit is willing but the flesh tends to slow me down and right now I am in a kind of spiritual limbo, please pray for me. God bless you.
I'm trying to figure out? Why do Christian music need an award show? Shouldn't souls being won to Christ be the greatest award they can win? And why do Christian concerts got to look like a secular concert?
Have you seen Become the Knight’s videos on contemporary Christian music? He interviews a few people in the industry, including some non-Christians, so there’s some strong language, but overall I’d say they’re worth checking out as they’re very eye-opening about some of the stuff that actually goes on. The short version is a lot of people go into CCM not out of a pure love for the Lord and desire to spread the gospel (though doubtless that does happen), but because they couldn’t cut it as mainstream musicians and know a lot of Christians care less about the quality of the music than the message.
Kevin, amazing! I was thinking a lot about this very thing this morning! Why do they have award ceremonies for Christian artists? Is it not all to glorify God and bring others to Him? Why do we, the artists, need recognition? We're not to be conformed to this world.
Kevin, Bullseye! There are Christian artists who minister from a pure heart, but also Christian artists who are carnal. It’s so easy to get sucked in to the “stardom” of it all, if you will. One must be exceedingly grounded in the Word and also accountable to others, to avoid the ditches on all sides of the road that would pull you down. But to your point: Excellent! I know Christian artists do this for a living, and exposure is important. But what is really necessary, and biblical, and what should happen, is the people who receive an award on stage should kneel right there and leave that award right on the stage. What a testimony to the world. We will all about before the Lord Jesus, and any awards that we have been given will be cast at His feet. Looking at your awards and trophies on your shelf causes you to start thinking, “I’ve done pretty well for myself.” God gives the song, and God must get every bit of the glory. Every last bit.
THANK YOU! I felt bad because I thought I was the only one who felt this way. Contemporary Christian music just does not move me. I can listen to oldies rock or country music and I get moved, but Christian music sounds SO formulaic. It does not draw me to God, it puts me to sleep. I like some of it, but most of it doesn't inspire me at all....not the words, not the music. It all sounds forced and commercial.
Yep. The same chord progression from song to song, and no change in mode or tone within a song. I was at a party where CCM was being streamed from the internet through a Bluetooth speaker. It occurred to me at one point that what I mis-heard behind the noise of the crowd as the same song was actually three different songs! There seems to be no striving for excellence in craftsmanship. If we think that Yahweh does not care, look to Exodus 35, and witness the building of the temple in Hebrew days. El would whisper to Moses, "Go get Bezalel of Judah to be the chief artisan. He is expert at filigree." (My paraphrase.)
@Eevee * that’s why I like hymns. I’m really not into contemporary for multiple reasons. One reason is most of them are like yay Jesus we love you. And also I play piano and have recently enjoyed playin through the hymnal
Tenebrae Choir is what comes to mind, especially Agnus Dei. Most of those songs are (i think) sung in Latin.I am Catholic, and I go to the Traditional Latin Mass, praying in Latin is more powerful than in English. Christianity is full of mysteries, like the Eucharist for example.
Because most people are shallow themselves. Most modern worship music isn’t about solely glorifying God, it’s more singing about what God can do for them in this life.
Lol….not our music! One of our songs is “he is real”…. It’s kind of a jab at evolutionists lol Another is “im in awe of all that you are”…. I don’t even listen to contemporary Christian music. Most of it is horrible, and a lot of it is made by people just wanting the money. We’re old rock and rollers, so it’s not wimpy marshmallow stuff.
@@ooneybird27 why should I need to please a god. Both Bible versions are cruel supporting slavery Rape and sodomy and a host of other activities which Are illegal today. Faith is believing in some without evidence. Religion is the poison of the world. Look Round you, thousands are being killed in the name of religion. If there is a god he is a cruel and unforgiving deity.
Firstly, I just wanted to suggest a great worship artist: Jonathan Ogden. His songs are Scripture based, and beautiful. Secondly, as someone who has led worship, I've felt convicted so many times when a church has asked me to sing a song that I don't truly feel is worship. It's wonderful to see our eyes being opened by the Holy Spirit. You're so anointed Becca; God has worked through you as a godly role model when I haven't had any. Praying for you, may you know how deeply appreciated and loved you are. 🌄 I also want to add, I've struggled with God's wrath and have avoided a lot of who He is. In fact, I was confused and tried to cover my eyes to God. But He's starting to show me who He truly is. It's a journey, but in glad to be on it, no matter how scary it may seem, because if it's with God and leading me closer to Him, it's right. Final thing (sorry I'm spilling over here haha) , knowing that we are so small compared to the size of the universe, our lives are so short, there are so many other people, we are so unecessary to God's being...yet He still would want to love on us? We can't ignore that because that's a truly incredible demonstration of God's love and mercy ❤️
I love Jonathan Ogden!🙌🏻He is so genuine as well as gifted! I can totally relate to what you said about God’s wrath. I used to ignore it and pretend it wasn’t in Scripture too. But the Lord’s Word is good, and I thank God He has changed my heart about the doctrine of His wrath because it IS good😭🖤 And thank you! All glory goes completely to God.
@@ooneybird27 firstly that's so awesome so many got saved!! It's sad many didn't want to or couldn't participate, and of course how there are many who have been led astray - like the example you mentioned. I understand that artists need to support themselves financially and that can be REALLY difficult especially in this industry with little royalties and earnings, but yes that does sound quite extensive. Thank you for mentioning those song suggestions, I will check them out. Chriz Renzena has beautiful music, it's very refreshing and a wonderful fusion of styles that honours God still. And Phil has beautiful music too, a great voice :)
@Richard Fox sorry I'm still a little confused :) but I will say that it's beautiful to see musical artists using their gifts to worship God - fully and based upon true theology and Scripture. I love being able to access the artists music and connect deeper with God, though it can be hard to find with many not necessarily putting God first in thus music
@Richard Fox yes I agree! Your words reminded me of the verse 2 Timothy 4:3 (AMP) "For the time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine and accurate instruction [that challenges them with God’s truth]; but wanting to have their ears tickled [with something pleasing], they will accumulate for themselves [many] teachers [one after another, chosen] to satisfy their own desires and to support the errors they hold" I have attended churches where the teaching seems sweet in the moment, but in the long run I'm not being challenged, not convicted at heart, and can't grow. The word of God is a double edged sword, and though the truth may make us feel uncomfortable, it's the truth and it's wonderful! Many are worshipping that false image of God, to paraphrase Becca. It's so easy, especially with new Christians, to fall into new worldly teachings, but are damaging to the soul. It's again almost that thing of narcigesis (inserting oneself fully into character of Bible to make it about oneself instead of word of God revealing Christ) vs exegesis (critical interpretation of Biblical text to understand it's intended meaning - of which we can then learn from and apply in our lives as God intends) Also, do you need any prayer for anything atm? God bless :)
Shallowness is a problem with the entire human race... just pass a magazine rack or log onto social media... to meet a truly deep and meaningful person in our culture is truly rare...
@@stevenfenley9359 We were clearly talking specifically about christianity. lukewarm Christians to be more specific. Naturally I am well aware of how shallow and materialistic most of mankind is. 'Christians' included.
Hearing that, I'd say if we don't want the second one, we're no real difference to the non-believing world. Are we? Maybe I'm what we do and what we say, but, in the end
So true! It's strange, but my heart is more deeply moved by some old songs -- even songs that are hundreds of years old -- than many more recent songs that are mass produced. When I hear songs like "Be Thou My Vision" or "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing," my heart is immediately impacted by both the power of the lyrics and the desire to forget everything around me. That's not to say that there isn't any tremendous worship music that is recent. Sometimes, I think that the key is found in Jeremiah 29-11-13. We often remember that verse because of the part about the "plans" and "future" that the LORD has for us. However, we forget that other part that reads, "And you will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart" (verse 13). When I pray and worship, I don't want to hold any part of my heart back. Some songs just feel as though they are too casual in that sense.
It really annoys me, especially when they play the same five songs on the Christian radio here in my area. :/ It's boring, doesn't fill me, and I've been listening to other stations because of it.
Try Family Radio if theres a station that has it in your area. That's what I've done bc the "Christian" stations In my area (major Northeast city) are not true followers of Christ
@@jazzy_for_jesus6048 Sorry to hear. They have a radio app that you can find on your phone, it's free. 24/7 Christian programs. Old Hymms and some Bible teaching. Wish you God's speed 🙏
Narcigesis of scripture leads to narcissistic music😢 If anyone reading this has never heard of narcigesis I would highly recommend reading this article! www.gotquestions.org/narcigesis.html
@@FarAwayDistance interesting article! The past year+ I've read the Bible asking the questions of what each text I read is saying about God, about me, and about the words it's got in it. And it hasn't led to any brand new understanding of doctrines, but a deeper understanding of who we are in Christ, who Christ is in us and in Himself, and about things we should strive for and things we should be cautious about. Regarding studying the words, it makes it easier to trace themes throughout the texts. For instance passages in Genesis mentioning water and getting new clothes, and seeing how those can relate to baptism. But there's so much more, and it's so interesting and encouraging to go deeper with God through these studies.
@@FarAwayDistance I am unsure where the term originated, but the first time I heard it was while listening to older Fighting for the Faith podcast episodes about Steven Furtick. Sadly Furtick is the king of making the Bible about himself.
Just found your channel! Your content is really inspiring to me as a fellow Christian and content creator! You hit the nail on the head when you said that Biblical worship isn’t usually the most popular. That’s unfortunately the case with Biblical anything these days. Prosperity gospel and Luke warm Christianity is the only “cool” way to be a Christian. It’s amazing the hate I get for simply taking the Bible literally. God bless! 😃
As a man, I'm of no worth except to follow the will of God. For my Father knows what is holy. And leads me to things I cannot see. I am a bondslave. I think our music should reflect this.
Beautiful. I love that word bondslave. A slave that has chosen to serve their master forever, due to the great care they receive from the same. I too am a bondslave of Christ. May His Holy Spirit continue to work within me to will and to do for His good pleasure.
@@anthonyeaton5153 Hi Anthony. It is very joyous. I've tried being an atheist, I hated myself and everyone around me. It's not refreshing. Luckily I'm not bound for your conception of how an adult should act. I'm glad to live in a free country where we can both disagree though. Have a nice day.
I've really started loving The Getty's, CityAlight, and Fernando Ortega's music. Their songs help me glorify God, they help me feel the way I'm supposed to when worshipping, like a sinner in need of a Saviour and like someone who glorifies God for how amazing and holy He is
Well i agree mostly, however, the Bible is FULL of His relationship with HIS creation. I write songs and they're not all worship. Some are prayers, some are very intimate. Keeping things scriptural is wiser, and gives Him the glory, but if an individual sings personal songs to their creator; I see no issues. I'm not much for fame and concert type situations though.
God is the sole focus of worship. Yet, He so loved THE WORLD that He sent His son. I absolute agree with you. I believe the best praise he adores in is the one where we know who He is and what He has done in our personal lives. He cares for what we know about Him. Jesus said that those who worship in Spirit and Truth are the true worshippers. AND YET ... The Samaritan woman ran to the city saying ... “Come see a man who’s told me everything ... could He be the Christ?” First ... she spoke of what He has personally done in her life. Second ... she recognized Him as Messiah. That’s true worship. Because you know of what He’s done in your life, you know of who He is in your life. Love your comment, fully agree!
Hi Tracey, I am hesitant to fully agree. Certainly a song is a heartfelt praise/communication with our creator. The Psalms are full of all kinds of emotions, so no there is not issues on that level. The issue becomes them being all about us, and not about God and what He is doing. That is the 'narcissistic' part of it. As a christian, even if our relationship starts with being how much God helps us, it needs to grow beyond that to how much we can reflect the love we have been shown to others. You may mean this in your comment, but it is not explicitly said, so ignore this if that is what you meant, but I think the message in the video is that personal songs to our creator need to be filtered through the scripture as they can sometimes not reflect what is true, and can sometimes, not be helpful in inspiring others to put on the mind of Jesus Christ.
@@asrgegetgghe9839 but my question is ... how can you fully know the narcissism of a song if God directly spoke and ministered to that person with the song they wrote? To believe that God doesn’t delight in our holy delight is for us to make Him an impersonal, stale, and abandoning God. I’m not saying that EVERY Praise song ever created is from God and was created out of a place of true relationship. Yet, isn’t there a story behind every song? For me to quickly judge a song without knowing the story behind it is for me to take away God’s credit in that song writer’s experience. For every suffering person Christ met, His work in their life came first ... praise came second. To know Who He is is the greatest honor, to know who He is in my personal life is Gospel. (This is just what I believe from what I have been through and from my life with Christ)
Im grateful someone is talking about this because for so long in my church, where this type of music is very much championed, I've felt unmoved by these songs. The one thing that has struck me most is that they all sound the exact same, they;re identikit songs. Another thing is that in recent times the people who wrote those songs have had very public fallings away from the faith. So you have songs written by people who were never really seeking God in the first place, being sung in churches all over the world. And then you have the old hymns which I stumbled across by complete accident when I was visiting London and came across what I realise now, was a proper biblical church. Myself and my buddy where handed Hymn books the moment we walked in the door and the entire congregation sang un unison. I was blown away. This is the difference between songs written by people whos hearts burned for God and songs written by people whos hearts are oriented towards the world and worldly popularity.
I stopped listening to “ Christian” music, yrs ago it’s empty, ego filled or sometimes rock based, about making a feel good moment where I feel I am praising but it’s about me and what I want. I surprised myself yrs ago actually found more calm and able to focus on Jesus in Gregorian Chant
I love Gregorian chant, too, but I primarily listen to Rock music because that's what speaks to my soul. I don't like most Christian music mostly because it's just not good artistically. There are plenty of hints of Jesus in a lot of regular old Rock. There's a song I liked since it was released in 1990. It's called "She Talks to Angels" by the Black Crowes. It's a song about drug addiction, but there's a verse in it that has over the years resonated with me, "She keeps a lock of hair in her pocket She wears a cross around her neck Yes, the hair is from a little boy And the cross is someone she has not met, not yet". I could give lots of other examples of references to Jesus in Rock music that might go unnoticed if you don't listen to the lyrics. I only write this because you seem to be dismissing Rock music altogether. If that wasn't your intention, then I apologize. We all understand our own musical language, so to speak. To me, it's more powerful when I find Jesus where I wasn't expecting Him than where I was.
@@brianmoore581 I agree with you that most contemporary Christian music is not good on an artistic level, and I agree with you that there are lots of references to the Bible in rock music (especially older rock music), but I wouldn't consider that some ministration to my soul. A lot of older rock musicians had been raised in church because most people were raised in church when they were growing up, but they had abandoned the faith by the time they were rock stars. They were just using Biblical allusions as a literary device. Rock music ministers to the flesh. You'd be better off going with Gregorian chant.
@@bigscarysteve I appreciate your thoughts, but in the Bible and in my own experience, Jesus finds us where we are. I have no idea what, for example, the Black Crowes believe. I never investigated that. I just like that line in their song. It speaks to me, to where I once was and many are still. Some things are always going to mean a great deal more to some than to others. It may be nothing to you, but it has a depth in my life that might blow right past the next person, whether it was written by a Christian or not. Sting, both solo and with the Police, has a lot to say about God. He is also a favorite of mine. I do know that he is agnostic, but he shows nothing but respect for Christianity. And his music is deep, artistic and intelligent in a mostly shallow, cookie-cutter industry. The group U2 once considered only doing Christian music, and even considered leaving music altogether, but ultimately decided they could do more good in the world through music that isn't exactly what you might find on Christian radio, but you will find Jesus in their music, and I would say a far more genuine reaction to Him. So, yeah, you probably are right that many, or most, Rock stars don't give much thought to much of anything, certainly not God, but there are some for sure, and others who may not even be Christian but nevertheless their words speak to Christian themes, whether intentional or not. It's not only the writer or singer who imparts meaning to his song, but also the hearer. And if someone is making money off of sometimes obscure references to Jesus in their work, how much more are Christian artists doing the same? Only theirs is usually lacking in emotion, lacking in originality, very shallow, and possessing little awe for the Creator of all. It's just a business mostly. Some "Christian" artists aren't even Christian. I would rather know where you are coming from than be lied to. Honestly, I don't believe that everything I listen to has to be religious. I can enjoy or be moved by a song that has nothing to do with Christianity, nothing to do with Christian themes, just enjoy it on its own merits. But when there's something there where it isn't expected, I see that as an opportunity for those who are on the outside to come in. People who may have never given Jesus any thought suddenly do. It certainly helped me.
Can you find in the Bible when it say music is evil or a sin???? Christianity is not a religion but a relationship. Moses who we respect as a great prophet sing with the children of Israel's on their way from Egypt, David is a great psalmist he used instruments to sing...music is not a sin don't let anyone deceived you, you can make your judgment by the contents or lyrics of the music,but to say the entire music is bad that is not true
@@wisdom1285 Music in general is not a sin, I'll agree with you. We are commanded to sing God's praises. However, some music is used to appeal to humanity's dark side. Some music can be used to drive people to acts of sensuality or violence. That kind of music should be avoided.
“You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people's feet. Matthew 5:13
What I do and what has helped me is I start to listen to the lyrics without any reaction but rather have a critical thinking what the song is reflecting to, plus I don’t depend on the songs to only worship him, it’s any day, any moment, not on songs.
@@generalferret7129 I recommend starting by listening to Christian liturgical music from all denominations, whether Catholic, Protestant, or Eastern Orthodox. "Megaloschemos" and Psalm 51 sung by the Assyrian Christian singer Bit Seraphim are among my favorites.
This is the first time I've seen someone else saying this on youtube, thank you. I grew up Christian and went to public schools until my second year of middle school. My parents decided that the public school I was going to had gotten so bad in terms of moral character especially, and education quality, that they decided to pull me out and send me to a private Christian school instead. I attended my new Christian school throughout the rest of middle school and all of high school. Many of the school staff kept pushing worship music which was fairly new to me. I knew about hymns in church and all but never really part of a "Christian community", Christian was just my religious views. So this worship music I was hearing at school all the time always sounded like you said, super shallow and very surface level, very kum ba ya. The kind of "Jesus is my friend" mentality, like He'll never have wrath against you when you do wrong either, distorting God. I thought it was disrespectful, not to mention bland and tasteless. They also showed some modern Christian movie which again were very shallow and tasteless. One day I decided to do some research on the film God's not Dead because I wanted to understand the people behind it. I found out they received a lot of criticism because other people thought it was a bad movie too, and to my surprise the creators of God's not Dead responded saying- "We're not here to make good movies, we're here to spread the message of God." My take on that response and a lot of the shallow Christian music is; if we're supposed to glorify God with our talents that He gave us, shouldn't we give God our best when we create things to spread His word? I'm not against the overall idea of Christian music or movies, those are good things, it's how they're executed is what I'm concerned about. I don't think it would be right to carelessly make something that's supposed to honor God, then cover yourself by saying it's Christian when other criticize you for it like you can do no wrong because of that. Nobody's perfect (I'm not perfect I've got my own problems), but I'm sick of the 2-dimensional worship music and movies. True faith is by living in it, not rehashing it.
I really disagree with your take on Christian music. I’ve really not found much shallow Christian music that says “Oh God will never be mad at your sin.” I’ve found a lot of worship music really good. Maybe I haven’t seen all these terrible Christian songs, but I think that having a playlist of over 700 worship/Christian songs I would find at least one. I do agree that the movies have been so shallow and stupid as of late. Gods Not Dead is a terrible movie with terrible apologetics. It’s a disgrace to filmmaking, and I’ve yet to sees good Christian movie that wasn’t Veggietales. I really am not seeing this supposed problem of modern Christian worship.
@@generalferret7129 There is beauty in simplicity. Yes there are beautiful more complicated pieces, typically in the classical genre or just instrumental pieces. But complicated does not mean good, and simple does not make bad music. 4 chords isn’t a bad thing in a song. It’s not even lazy. I’ve written songs myself (I’m 17) and some had 4 chords, one of them had like 6 another 5 and some even less. It was like 3 chords. Effort matters of course. Giving our all to God is important. And I don’t think your description of contemporary Christian music is effortless songs (at least not all of them). I think the big issue in Christian music today is just the lack of genre. The lack of exploration. Rend Collective for example uses different instruments in their different albums typically. They’ve explored different ways of expressing worship and give good variety. Travis Green did a song recently where the style was completely different with a choir but some interesting musical effects and even a rap in there which would probably not be played on Christian radio (Christian radio kinda sucks and they overplay crap to death). From what I’ve listened to from Maverick City there is one song in particular that stood it to me that was out of the norm for what I’ve heard. I think Christians should go out of the box a little bit and use more instruments and try different styles. Maybe some jazz or other things. Step out of the comfort zone. But I’ve found a lot of songs have spoken to me and stood out. And with variety should come some more complicated and chord filled songs. That is what Christian music needs. Variety. Effort doesn’t seem in short supply in my opinion. Anyway, I really do support your mission. It sounds amazing. As a young song writer myself, I appreciate that you have a passion and that you’re starting young. Keep that passion and work hard to achieve your goal. It’s all for God’s glory, and all for the kingdom. I hope I’ll get to see your stuff in the future. God bless, and I hope you do the lords work
Wow, praise God! I love how honest you are about Biblical truths. Thank you so much for this video, you have no idea how much God has spoken to me through this. Keep doing what you're doing!!
I’ve heard a few Christian songs where it was confusing to know if it was really Christian or a secular love song. I first grew up on Christian music, knowing every word then listened to solely secular. Now I cut a LOT of the secular music out. And remember some of Christian music I heard after my childhood that sounded like a boyfriend and girlfriend relationship 😂
Also Steve Camp as well. He was a good friend of Keith Green. Keith advised Steve to never compromise the gospel. Which led Steve to write the 107 thesis of a call to reformation in Contemporary Christian Music in 1997 after the Christian record companies where purchased by secular record companies. Steve Camp strongly advised that the purpose of CCM is to be about ministry and not entertainment. He stressed that back in the Jesus Music days in the 1970s and CCM in the 80s, Christian artists were not ashamed to sing about Jesus in their songs with scripture sound theology. But lately in the 90s, either the songs didn't mention Jesus nor God, instead "He" or "The Man upstairs." or the songs were like God as my girlfriend kind of thing. Believe it or not he was right. Steve said that even he had stopped performing a few songs that he wrote in the past, because they were not based fully on scripture. I met him in concert back in 1998, and I got to tell you, Steve was a truly a humble man to talk to. Sadly, CCM is not as strong scripture based as back in the 70s and 80s. Steve said in his 107 thesis that we need to make Contemporary Christian Music Christian again.
Keith’s music reflected his burning zeal and pure love for his LORD. If he never got paid one cent for his record sales, he would still do it. It truly was a tragic day when he died with his children and his friends and the pilot in that plane crash. I always wondered how many more souls he could lead to the Lord Jesus and how much more impact he could meet with his music and how many songs he would’ve written to bless the LORD and His people if he was still alive today.
God is Holy before anything else. He doesn’t need man, but wants us. We need Him now and forevermore. Man changes for God, God does not change! He is the great “I am”. Praise Yahweh the triunitarian God! Godbless you Becca
saying you didn't want heaven without us so you brought heaven down in no way implies God is insecure and not self sufficient. You read that into the lyrics unfairly. Doesn't say that. It is true He doesn't want heaven without us and that's because He loves us so much and bringing Heaven down points to sending His Son to die for our sins.
Thank you for this video, sister. It was very edifying 🤍 I'm praying for you that you'd continue to speak with boldness, in defense of the truth of scripture 🤍
My precious sister , Your understanding of our attempts at worship are dead on target . God has given you a beautiful gift of teaching the truth . May you always honor Him as you have done in this post .
As a lifelong Christian wanting to renew his relationship with God, this was a real comfort. Thanks Becca. I just subscribed to your channel. Blessings!
@@mwazumbi2003 and the Testimony of who humans are and even to the depths from the least to the greatest. It shows the Testimony of what the Salvation of Yeshua does in our life while also giving a solid material source by which to measure ourselves objectively as well as being able to have a solid witness to the True and Living God one would experience in real life. The Bibles depth, width and height cannot be whiddled down to making it about one thing. The Bible is about us. It is about our origins and what took place in History and itsl gives witness to the Full Gospel of the restoration of mankind by the Hands of our Creator. Fake humility isn't precious in his sight. YHWH isn't an idol of Stone layered in gold.
Just throwing some thoughts into the discussion: If we're the bride of Christ and he's the groom.. why wouldn't love songs to him be appropriate? "You didn't want heaven without us" couldn't that also imply that God's love is so great that he wanted us with him even though he doesn't need us? I find it interesting when Christians want to diminish humans and yet, God doesn't seem to do that. Romans 8:19-21 and 8:30 talks about all of creation waiting for God's children to be revealed and glorified. In John 17:22 talks about Jesus giving glory to his disciples. Now, I'm not arguing that we deserve to be worshiped. But if we want to portray God as he truly is, we also need to recognize that He isn't narcissistic in his glory. The glory of his creation brings him glory. Diminishing ourselves doesn't glorify God. In the beginning when he created man, He said we were "very good". If God doesn't diminish us we shouldn't either. I believe that is part of having a right view of ourselves too. Again, not arguing that we should be worshiped, but God sings over his people too (The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17) Singing about God being love doesn't diminish his holiness. Singing about one attribute doesn't mean he doesn't have other attributes. I have no doubts that God could be pleased with someone singing a song that I don't totally agree with because they're hearts are in the right place. And I have no doubts that God might not receive the worship of someone singing a completely theologically sound song because they're hearts are not in the right place. I think it's important that we don't knitpick people in their worship when we don't know their hearts. There are some Psalms that don't seem God-honoring or theologically sound. There's a Psalm where David tells God to leave him alone so he can be happy. There's one where he asks God to dash his enemies' babies against a cliff. Those seem like odd, wrong things to sing to God.. and yet, they were included in Scripture. Perhaps we don't have to be pleased with someone's song for God to be pleased with it.
I actually don't have a problem with the "you didn't want heaven without us" line because he literally chose people to be in heaven so that stands to be Biblical. As for the love song parallel, yes we should sing of His love for us and ours for Him, but when it starts blurring the line between a reverent admiration and a romantic gooey feeling, that's when it becomes wrong. The problem with modern worship songs speaking generally, is the only focus on one attribute. It is akin to never giving a sermon on hell. It is very harmful and withholding important information about God's attributes.
Although yes, God doesn’t want us to go to Hell, He is a very righteous and jealous God who deserves praise and praise only (Exodus 20:5). In addition to this, we as humans are not worthy of any form of praise because of the first fall of humankind: we were “very good” until Eve ate the forbidden fruit (which is symbolic of sin) and was banished from the Garden with Adam. Because of our sin, no form of what we consider to be good is good enough for God (Isiah 64:6) because He is so perfect and we are not. This is why we cannot praise ourselves and must repent and turn to Christ to receive salvation from our sinful states. Although you don’t have to completely diminish yourself, there must be some form of acknowledgment that you started off as a sinner and even after you are saved, you will struggle with your sin (Ephesians 5:8). Instead of internalising it and putting the focus on yourself, focus on the only Person who can fix it- His Son. And when you accept His sacrifice, continue to thank Him and praise Him (Galatians 2:20).
I agree. Especially in the line "He didn't want heaven without us" It is not saying that he didn't want heaven without us because he needed us there or because he was lonely but simply his love is so unending and amazing that even though he doesn't need us he created a way for us to be there with him
I was just talking to my parents about this very issue this morning! 😲 The popular CCM that comes out of some large churches with dodgy doctrines was the main point of discussion, but we also talked about how "worship" today is pretty much missing the point.
And then there's the social gospel songs one hears on places like K-Love. Pardon me, but a 30-yr old man singing to a 14-yr old girl about how beautiful and special she is creeps me out. She is likely his daughter? Possibly...but he does not point that out in the song. Then, there was the Sunday when I looked to the radio to assist me in getting my praise on and reaching a proper attitude of worship before I hit the auditorium door on my way to Sunday morning preaching. A song came on with the lyrics, "I am a cashier at the place you frequent. I serve you twice a week. I'll bet you don't even know my name." On Sunday morning we are hearing this? I switched off before it got past the first verse.
As a music director in a church, this topic is always on my mind and spirit. I can’t earnestly praise the Lord in the cheap, manufactured "Jesus is my boyfriend," music. It is necessary of us to do better and sing truth and play music with excellence for the glory of the Lord. Thank you for highlighting this.
“Praise Song” - Token Worship Singer Me, Me, Me, (x50) Thank you Lord I know you love me I’m amazing Me, me Me, I am worthy! I am worthy! (Chorus) Thank you Lord for making me amazing (x20)
Well done, Becca! I've been leading worship at this very small church (twenty members), for about four months now. Due to my positions on music, worship, the church, and biblical doctrine, sadly, I am being forced to quit. Such a sad situation to see a church model after folks like Elevation and Hillsong. A lot (if not all) of their work is idolatrous, blasphemous, and heretical.
So glad you are so grounded in scripture. On God being self-sufficient, you might want to check out Delighting in the Trinity by Michael Reeves. It examines the different views of God specifically the one you named, "The codependent God". God HAD to exist as a Triune God, God loved in the beginning and had to love someone so He loved Christ and the Holy Spirit.
Hi Becca! It's always a blessing to watch your videos. I find them very edifying and helpful. Thank you for all you are doing for the kingdom of God! It's clear to me that your heart's desire is to help people to know the Lord and grow closer to Him and that you genuinely love and care for people. I have been watching your videos for a while now and just felt like sharing something that's been on my heart, since you have mentioned Steven Lawson. I don't know Steven Lawson's heart (as I've never met him) but I have watched a lot of his sermons and to be honest, he comes of as very prideful and stern at times. I used to listen to preachers like Steven Lawson, John MacArthur, Paul Washer, Tim Conway etc. I still like some of them, but I honestly, I feel like those preachers are way too harsh/cold at times (sometimes arrogant) and can even have legalistic tendencies. I have recently limited my reading and listening to preachers who strongly believe and teach the inerrancy of the scriptures, but are more balanced and gracious in their demeanor (like Robert Jeffress, Billy Graham, Charles Stanley etc). I feel much more free now, because I really felt that those other preachers were not helping me grow in my relationship with God, but were making me fearful and depressed. The reason I say all of this is because I feel that many Christians (particularly in the calvinistic/reformed groups) make it their mission to rebuke what they call "modern day american evangelicalism" because they don't accept some of the nuances that these Christians accept. There are many worship songs that were written in the past by people who held to heretical beliefs and yet we still sing them! Not to mention, at the time that these hymns were written, they were considered contemporary. I just think that as long as we are worshipping God genuinely, that that's all that matters. I agree that there are a lot of excesses in evangelicalism though (particularly in groups like hillsong, bethel, elevation etc), but if the song is biblical, I don't have a probelm with singing it. I'm Southern Baptist and we sing a lot of modern songs at our Church, as long as it's biblical. I think that you are absolutely right though in a lot of what you said in this video. I believe that sound doctrine is very important, but we need to be careful not to become to rigid with cetain things. Just a few thoughts there. Thank you again for ministering to us through your youtube channel! God bless :)
Thank you for watching! :) I am so glad you’re here. I want to make sure I make clear I love both modern day songs and hymns! I love Sovereign Grace Music, Shane and Shane, and CityAlight so so much and I’ve been so blessed by them! But there are so many other artists who have very watered-down theology, and for that reason, I do not listen to them anymore. I do love Lawson and MacArthur, but I understand why you may not. After I left my man-centered, shallow church, I craved the sermons filled with Bible and solid theology, and I ended up finding pastors like Baucham, MacArthur, Lawson, Chappell, Piper and many more, and it was just the expositional preaching I needed. I see so much gentleness and boldness in those men and I learn a lot from them, but I also understand they are not fully sanctified yet and they can grow in certain area as well. All that to say, I needed that kind of bold, expositional preaching so much because I wasn’t given anything deep for so long, so that is a huge reason why they’ve been such a blessing to me. I can totally hear your heart here though and I’m thankful you care about worshiping our God rightly too🙌🏻
@@FarAwayDistance Hi Becca! Thank you for your gracious reply. I completely understand what you're saying. I also would be more inclined towards listening to preachers like Steven Lawson and John MacArthur if I would have come out of a man centered shallow form of Christianity. I find that their passion and zeal for the word of God is what attracts many believers (like myself) who are hungry for the word. I also think that preachers like Steven Lawson are definitely very gifted expositors and I like and respect him for that. I just personally find that there can be a certain coldness/harshness in reformed Churches that I haven't seen in more mainstream Southern Baptist Churches for example. However, that is not always the case and I know plenty of reformed Christians who are very gracious and also enjoy listening to the modern songs. It's always a joy to watch your videos and I pray that the Lord would continue to draw many people to Himself through you. God bless :)
Yea she is legalistic. “Not mentioning God once” as she stated some of these songs do is legalism. It’s like the songs must clear this hurdle before it measures up for her that’s legalism. The book of Esther doesn’t mention God once yet God still saw fit to allow it to make the biblical canon. By your standard we should all just skip over that book. I do believe many songs are so repetitive and uninspired but if the song is focused on worshiping God it shouldn’t be marked as sinful or not good enough
If you're sincere, that's all that counts? Uh, no. And, as someone who use to go to a couple of SBC mega-church style churches. All I can say is, they are a great breading ground for shallow Christianity. Worship is just the start.
So true!!! The LORD truly is “holy, holy, holy”! I’ve noticed this recently in the Christian songs I’ve listened to. I am definitely going to seek Christ’s wisdom about good, glorifying songs!
I'd love to disagree with you on your interpretation of the second verse of the song you quoted what a beautiful name. That phrase "you didn't want heaven without us, so Jesus you brought heaven down..." Speaks of God's selfless love towards us, that he gave us a taste of heaven through our relationship with and in Christ by the Holy Spirit. As far as I am concerned, it doesn't in anyway paint God as lonely and desperate but loving, caring and compassionate towards all...
my friend made a slight tweak to that verse of What A Beautiful Name to: "You COULD'VE HAD heaven without us, BUT Jesus You brought heaven down" and just by changing those three words, i feel that it preserves the songwriting's integrity while more accurately articulating how God chose to save us out of His love even though He is completely self-sufficient without us. now i love the song when it's sung this modification haha
"You didn't want Heaven without us, so Jesus you brought Heaven down". It's no doubt that God is bringing His Kingdom to us, and the consumation of it will be on the New Heavens and the New Earth. But are you saying it's wrong to assume / paraphrase the reason God ushers in His Kingdom is because He doesn't want it without us? The next line in the song shows they're refering to it being God's greater love that is the reason anyway.
i haven’t watched the video yet but just from reading the title of it im so glad you made this video! in my older teen years (im 19 now) my parents started playing the christian radio station exclusively and i always felt guilty cuz besides a few songs, i found myself not really caring for a lot of the christian pop i would hear. but i always felt like that was wrong to admit out loud cuz then my parents or even other christians would think it’s just me being upset that it’s not worldly music. but in reality what was bothering me was how superficial and ngl sometimes just cringe and bad the lyrics were. my passion is english im studying to be an english teacher so the lyrics have always made or broken music for me. and sometimes i would hear on the christian radio just how lazy the lyrics and even the production of the music was and thought to myself: “is this really their best? is this really the finished product they’re trying to present to our God? this sounds like they just wanted to make some quick money. i don’t feel the Spirit or the passion for worship in these songs.” i think that’s the main problem ive had with popular christian music of today. i go to my pentecostal church and that music fills me and everyone else in that temple with such a sense of glee/joy for singing and praising. and then outside of that i’ll hear the radio’s christian music and there is just such a disconnect. im really trying to find some other branch of modern christian music. im thinking maybe gospel will be nice to give a try. my church is a hispanic one so i grew up listening to spanish christian music (which im sure had played somewhat of a role on the disconnect) but i think gospel may have a similar vibe lyrically and sound wise to the spanish hymns i was raised on.
Dear Becca, Thank you so much for sharing this. You have such a gift to share this in a clear, truthful and Bible based way. Often, I have thought the same concerning worship. Also, I think it deserves a compliment of how your present yourself within a professionally set-up background that creates the right focus and calm combined with beauty. Bless you. Get it out there! Hopefully many opportunities in person. You do it in such a clear and loving way. A good example to many.
Spot on! Really glad that you pointed out the me-me-me culture so prevelant in modern worship music, and specifically addressing that "you didn't want heaven without us..." line. I've always felt uncomfortable singing and leading that song in church for the exact reason you've stated. Good worship songs should be able to edify us regardless of how we feel at the moment, and that can only happen when the lyrics are based on biblical truths about who God is and who we are in relation to God. Songs that focus on our feelings are rather fleeting and often leaves me feeling like I'm lying when singing, because I don't always desire what they sing about. But lyrics that are praising God for who He is and what He has already done through Christ on the cross can be sung confidently and boldly no matter how I feel at the moment. They will cast my eyes back to God in worship no matter where I am in my walk. The old hymns "And can it be" and "It is well" are such brilliant examples, as well as so many of the modern hymns from the Gettys :)
Try looking into orthodox christian chant, the whole Divine Liturgy is meant to mirror the eternal liturgy that is taking place in heaven right now, beyond space and time, and by doing so, we partake in it while we are on this world. In this sense the music that is employed during the services has been strictly coded since the 5th century.
I’m a worship leader and know first hand why worship music is so shallow, it’s because we have left the truth of God’s Word and made a god in our own image, we don’t worship God for who he says he is in his Word, we worship a god who gives us what we want, Now I don’t and won’t sing songs that are un biblical, theologically unsound and self Centred, it’s not about us it’s about him and him alone.
At this point and the direction the world is headed, I’m grateful anybody turns to ANY worship music! Rap, heavy metal, - everything out there is horrendous!
Not all Heavy Metal is bad. Check out a band called... Love Reflect Back. The singer's name is Lacey Sturm, ex-singer for Flyleaf and now has her own band called.. Lacey Sturm. Her most recent band is called Reflect Love Back. Her husband plays acoustic guitar and she sings nothing but Praising God/Jesus music. 😊
No one has ever deserved forgiveness and that is what makes his love so great, his undeserved mercy wonderful and his name worthy to be praised. God is not a genie that grants wishes, He is a loving father that punishes bad behavior. He listens to humble hearts not haughty proud hearts. He judges our hearts even those hearts that have lied to us, we thinking we are right in his sight only to find out our hearts lied to us. God demands justice as he demands holiness, obedece and to worship him in spirit and in truth, he cannot be mocked.
There is a song by a young, I think Korean, girl which she sings the Bible verses Collosians 3,2,3. That speaks to this. Set your mind on what’s above not what is on the earth……….. It is just a simple rendition of those two verses. Definitely not on the “hit parade” of contemporary Christian songs.
Having led praise/worship for years, you voiced my sentiments, exactly. Its all about lifting up our Savior, Yeshua Jesus and praising Him; not our experiences. A good example of what you're saying in a song is "Reckless Love." We use this song but change the word from "reckless" to "selfless." We need to be extremely careful!!
@Richard Fox That’s a man made hymn. You already knew that. If you saw Him, you would NOT treat Him as a your buddy, you would fall down upon your face.
@Richard Fox That you would not fall on your face in reverence? I know that I would because of the great respect I have for who He is and what He has done for me.
@Richard Fox Rich, I’m not arguing with you, brother. I’m just trying to say that there is so much disrespect for Christ as a buddy, a dude, and sometimes a Butler. My initial point is that He is God and deserves the utmost from us in reverence. I just don’t see that in so many churches these days. I do apologize if that was lost in my comments.
@Richard Fox yeah, it’s bizarre. People think that Jesus owes them and must do for then as they ask simply because they prayed it. The Lord isn’t under the obligation to do anything for us. And for some because He isn’t fulfilling their wishes, they treat him differently.
This is wonderful. Perfectly spoken. This is necessary beyond words to hear. Well done!! I turn to my wife in church sometimes and say, “we sure are singing about “I and me a lot in this song, aren’t we? At that point I simply have to stop singing and worship quietly in my heart. Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. Glory to the Lamb of God. Again, thank you so very much for this video. My compliments to your parents, or whoever gave you such a good foundation. :)
when God's holiness loses its centrality in the Gospel, you can be sure that every other attributes of him will be distorted. And that will be translated into the kind of fruits that the church produces in their ministry. The words of the Lord is indeed true. You will know them by their fruits. (Matt 7: 15-20)
My problem is that this paints such a broad and negative stroke against modern worship music. SO many modern worship songs are Biblical and are focused on pure and humble Praise of a mighty and Holy God! Please reconsider using language that oversimplifies and categorizes something as large as “Modern Worship Music”. So much respect for your desire for Biblical truth and holy living!
I kinda agree. I clicked on the video expecting more specifics about the problems with modern-day "worship" music. She does give some specific examples later on, such as "You didn't want heaven without us" (one I hear at my church pretty frequently), but I was thinking the whole video would be about that.
i have been a worship leader since the mid 80's and what you have said in this series is 100% right on ! I have been aware and on this same bandwagon for a long time now. i would like you to consider though tat there are some other classifications of "church music" like evangelistic, prophetic, worship, praise, mnemonic, teaching, declaration, etc... and each have their time and place and we need to let the spirit lead as to when and where to apply them.
"Why is Christian worship music often so shallow?" Answer: Because "believism" is a shallow self-centered misunderstanding of the message of the Gospels. Worship, praise, and gratitude do not replace the central matter: following the Great Commandment though the actions that are the consequence of a reborn heart.
I grew up in a church that promoted Free Grace theology, but I didn't even know it was called that until a few months ago. Detractors call it "easy believism," and I understand the impetus for the derogatory appellation. Now I don't know what to believe exactly. I don't buy either Calvinism or Arminianism completely, but I agree with them where they oppose Free Grace theology. At least my church didn't subject me to this kind of music; they stuck with much older hymns.
This is so on point. By the Grace of God. Thank you for sharing. This exact subject has been very heavy on my heart for a time. The old lair musician from Heaven wanted worship to go to him instead of The Lord. As secular music is now. It is ALL ABOUT GOD ONLY!!!! AMEN !!! God Bless and Thank You.... Till He Comes
If I wanted worldly music, I will go to the world. "Christian Rock" etc is an oxymoron and terrible. You can't beat the old hymns, there is so much power in them. Happy Sabbath 🙏🏼 Good video, thanks.
I think that something like "Christian rock" is akin to mother's milk, while a classic Christian hymn with direct Biblical references is like meat for adults. The former is easily digestible, but won't nourish you by itself. The latter takes a fair bit of chewing, but it will keep you nourished time and again.
As a former song writer, worship leader and a gospel singer and being in a Gospel band for 15 years, gone to bible school and got a degree, become a pastor.... but that's not what God wanted me to do, so after many years of searching i am currently following my office gift as a teacher of the word, i can only conclude that the majority of Christian worship music has biblical words as well as life issues, but i believe 70% of all these music are not inspired by the Holy Spirit. i will give you my experience as a worshiper; out of all Hill songs albums only 2 could connect me to the presence of God, one being GOD HE REIGN 2005 that i still playing up until today and the recent album with the song " there is power in the name of Jesus (2019-2020 if i am not mistaken). that being said, Only the Holy Spirit " My Great Teacher" can inspire a worshiper to write and sing worship music that are not shallow..... The African wise man Amadou Ampate Ba have said this "GO TO THE CAMELEON SCHOOL to learn knowledge " but i will say to worship leaders and gospel song writers and singers " GO TO THE SCOOL OF THE HOLY SPIRIT" you will know God and relate to Him.
"Spirit lead me where my trust is without borders Let me walk upon the waters Wherever You would call me Take me deeper than my feet could ever wander And my faith will be made stronger In the presence of my Savior" ...yeah, super shallow indeed :(
Yes, so is this :| Make me Your vessel Make me an offering Make me whatever You want me to be I came here with nothing But all You have given me Jesus bring new wine out of me In the crushing In the pressing You are making new wine In the soil I now surrender
And this: I approach the throne of glory Nothing in my hands I bring But the promise of acceptance From a good and gracious King I will give to You my burden As You give to me Your strength Come and fill me with Your Spirit As I sing to You this praise You deserve the greater glory Overcome, I lift my voice To the King in need of nothing Empty handed I rejoice You deserve the greater glory Overcome with joy I sing By Your love I am accepted You're a good and gracious King O what grace that You would see me As Your child and as Your friend Safe, secure in You forever I pour out my praise again
@@marceloplioplis4393 Yes! Exactly! The real question should be: is the message drawing listeners closer to Christ or pushing them away? Shouldn't we rejoice over the fact that Christian music now "competes" for influence in a secular world? Modern Christian artists have reached TENS OF MILLIONS of people with their music! Would this have been possible with traditional hymns? I think not.
@donald farrell …that saved a wretch like ME / Just as I am / Be thou MY vision / it is well with MY soul / Blessed assurance Jesus is MINE / when I survey the wondrous cross Stop dissing contemporary music for the human experience has always been portrayed in Christian music and plenty of old songs are focused on I / myself / me.
I did not listen to the video - I do not agree at all with the premise- but blown away by the comments. It seems so many people are listening to the wrong music or engaging incorrectly. I am sorry, there are a few songs I don't love, but worship through music is one of most amazing transformation experiences I had and have as a Christian - it's the greatest treasure of the church. The lyrics matter only in the sense of expressing love, thankfulness, praise. Your vocabulary is often set aside when you kiss your loved one - a simple "I love you" does not need "deep" words, lyrics and ideas. Music engages naturally on the emotional plane, then supernaturally on a spiritual plane. Don't let your mind get in the way of your heart. Spiritual transformation is renewal of the mind first - the emotions freely flow then and respond to spiritual songs from the heart.
I use to not like Christian music. I thought a lot of it sounded the same. I even apologized to GOD for not getting into the music. But, one day I listened to the music. I listened to the words. I was feeling it deep in my heart. Also today the music has changed and now I search for the channels when I’m driving. I love music and a lot of the non Christian music out there today has become ugly. GOD shows me new things every day.
Hey this was GREAT! Truly. You reminded me of that hymn that goes "holy holy holy Lord God Almighty"... You know that old hymn? I love that one. I'm really happy to have been led to your Channel. Since I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior back in January of 2020 the Holy Spirit has led me to so many Phenomenal Channels. This was BRILLIANT! This has and will continue to bring me closer to God the Father and bring me to a greater understanding of God the Father. By the way, what you said about the generation today being about "me me me"... It outlines this Luciferian Gnosticism that people seem to live by with all the "pride" stuff and so on. Extremely selfish. Great video. Thank you! Much love and may the Lord bless you and keep you...
This is not new… there are lots of shallow “hymns” (traditional worship songs) too. Over time the shallow ones tend not to last, while the better ones do. Most people still know “Shout to the Lord” for instance, even though it was written more than 20 years ago, but not many probably know “Sweet Wind” from the same period. God’s love is not a new theme either - you’ll find lots of songs about it in the gym book - of varying quality. You criticize one line of “what a beautiful name” - which is a song that definitely isn’t shallow. And the line didn’t necessarily mean God was incomplete or needed us. It could also be interpreted as “He created us for a purpose and we weren’t fulfilling it, so he solved the problem.” I think there are a lot weaker songs that could be highlighted.
Excellent comment! I completely agree with you. Shallow songs have always existed and that's never going to stop. You provide excellent perspective and depth. Thank you.
While the song "What a Beautiful Name" may not be altogether shallow, it contains a very non-biblical line in "You didn't want heaven without us, so Jesus You brought heaven down." Where in the bible does it say that Jesus brought heaven down to us? God sent His son Jesus to earth to die for us, to save us, but Jesus didn't bring heaven to us. It is up to us to accept God's gift of salvation so that we can live with Him in heaven. It's unfortunate that some otherwise good songs are ruined by a bad line or two.
@@spencergroup Well, songs are poems that often express things in poetic ways rather than being meant to be taken literally. Jesus came from heaven as God in bodily form---so in that sense, He brought heaven down. By the same token you could say that the Bible doesn't say that God's presence "cheers" us, so Great is Thy Faithfulness is unbiblical when it says, "Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide."
ok no reallly the other day i was listening to some contemporary worship and i was thoroughly confused. This sounds like a love song. i was instantly put offf...kinda laughed a little tho cuz whyyyyy😂
Yeah I’ve heard the songs that you are talking about and I heard no mention the name of Jesus. They could have been singing about their boyfriend or girlfriend or wife or husband!
I often use the parable to my listeners of: When you watch fireworks you all have your eyes upwards and feel deeply connected with the people you are watching with because you have the same awe of what you are seeing. But for that moment you are not occupied with yourself or with what the people around you are thinking, or what their faults and failures are. That is a meagre idea of what occupation with Christ is, and with who He is and where He is. I`m really thankful for what you are presenting here.
Why can't we just sing traditional hymns like the Presbyterians, Lutherans, and Catholics? Those are so much more intellectually and spiritually fulfilling.
@@MatthewVideoProduction but that’s like saying that old things have little to no value for God. Scripture is ancient but we shouldn’t write new scripture. Just because something is old doesn’t mean it doesn’t have tremendous value. Old hymns often express very deep theology and much more poetically than today.
@@impasse0124 Please don't twist my words. First of all comparing hymmns with the Holy Bible is already going over the edge.(don't do that) the word is irrefutable and should never be changed. And I did not say that old hymmns have no value. All I said is that the Lord deserves new hymmns, we people create so many things for the world, why not be creative for Him?
@@MatthewVideoProduction I’m not comparing hymns with the Bible, I’m stating that something being old doesn’t diminish its value. Nothing wrong with creating new things for God but I think a lot of the new stuff today lacks the depth and beauty of the old stuff.
Hi! :) I am a fellow Christian from Thessaloniki. I saw your video yesterday in my recommendations, so I thought I would come and share with you some of my favorite pieces. I already tried to share some links in a previous comment, but unfortunately RU-vid marks them as spam(?) probably. So I am just gonna give you the titles and you can search them in RU-vid by yourself if you are interested. All of these hymns are in Byzantine music. It’s an ancient form of music, and actually it is the only music we use to worship God in Greece :D So... the first one is „Agni Parthene“, it is a Greek poem. I will give you two versions, one in Greek and the other in Belarusian (because I love the choir of Irina Denisova, she is a musical genius). Greek one: « Greek Byzantine orthodox chant: Agni Parthene/ Αγνή Παρθένε (Lyric Video) », Belarusian one: « 5 Марие Дево, Чистая. Ирина Денисова » I also love the Great Paraklesis, one of my favorites is the 3rd Ode and Megalynaria which you can hear here: « Tropaires de la 1ère et de la 3ème Ode & Mégalynaires du canon de la Grande Paraclèse » I will also share some of the hymns we sing at Christmas and Easter :) Christmas: Hristos Gennatai (Χριστός Γεννάται = Christ is Born) « ΥΜΝΟΙ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΩΝ: Χριστός γεννᾶται...,Μεγάλυνον ψυχή μου...,Μυστήριον ξένον... » Easter: Hristos Anesti (Χριστός Ανέστη = Christ is Risen) « Divna Ljubojević - Slavoslovije - Hristos Anesti» And also « Greek Byzantine Chant on Pascha (Easter) » I hope you like them :) Have a nice day, God bless us !
I love a lot of music labeled Christian, or even loosely labeled Christian rock - but that stuff they play in church on Sundays is awful. Shallow and nauseating is an apt description.
This is not on topic but it was a nostalgic trip listening to you talk about this. I grew up in a very Christian environment with all the books, music, church, etc. It sounds like you did too. It wasn't for me but watching this video reminded me of my early years more than a lot of things do.
Thanks for talking about this! It’s definitely something to think about, and remember through our lives- whether in worship, in work, in partying, resting, whatever it is we do. May God continue to bless you and to work through you to help anyone and everyone who watches these videos. He’s definitely brought this to me, at least. Another thing to thank Him for. He does not need me, but I will always need Him. Thanks to Jesus, we will all be home soon, all of us who trust in His sacrifice for our sins.
Songs like: "Nobody Loves me Like You" "Ever Be" "Even So Come" come to mind... I refer to them as 'Jesus is my Boyfriend' or 'Sugardaddy Jesus' music. Pretty much the only Christian artist I listen to on a regular basis are Lacey Sturm, and Skillet. I play in a church band but I honestly don't listen to any typical CCM music (Tomlin, Hillsong, etc) outside of what I have to know for the gigs-- I mean services. In the case of Lacey Stern I think that Mercy tree is probably one of the best modern hymns, and most people I know have never even heard it.
@@duckster004 I wasn't saying it's non-biblical per se, I was pointing out that it's dumbed down, shallow, repetitive, slop that lives up to the "Jesus is my Boyfriend" stereo-type that exists about CCM. "Jesus Loves Me (This I Know)" is biblical too, but one would hope that adult worship music would be more meaty than that -- And often it isn't.
@@FarAwayDistance I love your sweet spirit =) I found a comment underneath the video you recommended and am just curious to know what you think of it. The comment read this (and I'm in agreement with it): I understand what Pastor John is saying if this line stood on its own. But it doesn’t. The next line expands on it and continues the thought by saying “my sin was great, your love was greater. What can separate us now?” In context, we couldn’t have heaven because of our sin. But Jesus didn’t leave us in that state but “brought heaven down”. In context it has nothing to do with God being lonely and is not implied in the song. When sung in context to the rest of the song, there shouldn’t be an issue with it. He didn’t leave us all destined to an eternity apart from Him (you didn’t want heaven without us) but while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (so Jesus, you brought heaven down). It’s good news. It’s the Gospel.
It is a shame: barring that one errant line, "What a Beautiful Name" is *actually* one of the better songs out there; the exception that proves the rule. The word "I" appears not once in the entire song, and all the lyrics revere Yahweh and extol his holiness.
Well Banning Liebscher was "wrecked" by that song based on this recent video from BEZELT3. (ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-cAHqpSrZOvU.html)
I always forget that it's "Reckless Love" because once I heard my sister sing it as "Endless Love" and since then have always sung it that way, even at church. It fits better. His love is endless definitely not reckless.
You are straight on truth. Did you know the Lord God wanted us to be free and have freedom? Why he can not force you to love him. He wants you to chose to love him. Otherwise he couldn’t be God. Our Lord is always there. Some people don’t want to believe because they want to sin without any consequences. Great job on video.
There seems to be a difference between “worship” music and “praise” music. Worship songs worship songs always point to God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit). While praise music points to our experience of what God has done and it points to self. True worship music will always point to God. Anything that points to self runs the risk of becoming too experiential and not necessarily rooted in the Truth. And as always we have to beware of the wolves in sheep’s clothing!
I hate cliches. Especially in church. "Praise and worship." "Worship center ". "Praise Team". "Small groups ". I remember when we had hymns sanctuaries, choirs, and Sunday school. And you had to go to the church kitchen to get coffee. Now we have multiple coffee bars.
@@ronaldmccutcheon1329 I agree with you. And the worst cliche is calling the building the church when actually the church is the body of believers in it. And they are the church no matter where they go.
@@ronaldmccutcheon1329 I’ve always understood that worship isn’t just the music we sing at church service but also in how we act and in our attitudes on a daily basis towards God. It seems the meanings of several words are being changed including church and worship!
@@jasonsterling7543 You're absolutely right! We, the Church, have come to accept that only a dude in jeans with an untucked shirt ( and preferably a guitar), can lead "worship ".
Great video! Historical worship is certainly not shallow. Visit an Orthodox Christian church and it will blow your mind. I used to think that hymns were "old" worship songs. I didn't realize the church has songs that have been around for nearly two thousand years. 😳
I just found your channel today. I live in KZN, South Africa. Currently, it is like the Purge and there is just lawlessness and violence and looting. Finding another like-minded Christian who learns from such powerful theologians and truly uses her Bible provides such pure hope. I have been on a journey of trying to find new Christian songs that have word-based revelations instead of just a love song. His wrath is disregarded, which is disillusionment. Reformed Youth Ministries (RYM) has some great songs that also use interesting melodies and real instruments. Songs like: "Is He Worthy?", "The Lord is Good", "More Than We Know". As a musician, it is important that the quality of Christian songs is shown in not only the words but also in the music arrangement. Why would one not want to uphold the highest standard of worship for the Lord?
🇨🇦 More wisdom from this beautiful young person using inspired Word, than from many pastors twice her age. Pay attention young and old alike. GOD bless her.
