Last week, a social media discussion had the comment section extremely active, and today, the topic needs to be discussed: bible and music.
Music has been integral to human culture since ancient times, offering expression, comfort, and celebration. For many, the question arises: Is secular music wrong according to the Bible? This question dives into the intersection of faith and musical preferences, exploring whether the scriptures provide guidance on the types of music deemed acceptable. Should we crank up “I Surrender All” when we are with our spouse? Is it ok to listen to music that talks about relationships in a healthy, romantic way? Song of Solomon is a romantic book in the Bible that speaks to the intimate love between a beloved and her beloved. What about music that has no reference to romance but everyday life situations or just telling a story? Where do we draw the line? To unravel this complex topic, we must consider historical context, biblical principles, and diverse interpretations within the Christian community.
Understanding Secular Music:
Secular music, in its broadest sense, refers to not explicitly religious or spiritual music. It involves many genres, from pop and rock to hip-hop and classical. Advocates argue that secular music captures the human experience, reflecting emotions, relationships, and societal issues. However, concerns arise within religious circles about the moral and spiritual implications of engaging with music that does not explicitly glorify God.
Biblical Perspectives:
One must navigate through scripture to examine the biblical stance on secular music, recognizing the absence of explicit references to contemporary musical genres. While the Bible does contain passages praising the use of music in worship, such as Psalms 150, it does not categorically condemn or endorse specific musical styles. Therefore, interpretations often hinge on broader biblical principles.
The Bible does not explicitly address the issue of secular music, leaving room for interpretation. However, passages such as Philippians 4:8 encourage believers to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. This verse is often cited by those who advocate for discernment in choosing music that aligns with these virtues, whether explicitly Christian or not.
Some argue that certain secular lyrics promote values contrary to Christian teachings.
The Heart of Worship:
One foundational principle emphasized in the Bible is the condition of the heart. Proponents of secular music argue that the morality of music depends on the listener’s intent and the impact it has on their spiritual journey. In Matthew 15:11, Jesus declares, “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” This principle suggests that the focus should be on the heart’s alignment with God rather than strict adherence to a particular musical genre.
What entertains us speaks to what is in our hearts. If we do not consider certain lyrics and the song’s message, what does that say about our hearts? Often, we mislabel matters of the heart to convince ourselves we are more devoted to God than we really are. Take, for example, a married couple. What music should they listen to? Should a single person listen to that same genre of music, though it may illicit desires that shouldn’t be awakened until the right time? These questions must be considered to keep a worshipful heart if that is the goal. That seems to be the issue for both sides of the view. Is it truly worship when it becomes legalistic, and is it truly worship when the guards are down, and any music is an option?
Avoiding Immorality and Ungodly Influence:
Critics of secular music often point to passages cautioning against immorality and ungodly influences. 1 Corinthians 15:33 states, “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company ruins good morals.'” Some argue that certain secular lyrics promote values contrary to Christian teachings. However, others contend that discerning listeners can engage critically with music, appreciating artistic expression without compromising their values.
Historical Perspectives:
Throughout history, various Christian denominations have grappled with the question of music’s morality. In the Middle Ages, certain forms of music were deemed inappropriate for religious settings, leading to the distinction between sacred and secular music. The Reformation saw differing opinions among reformers, with Martin Luther embracing music as a means of worship and John Calvin advocating for simplicity in musical expression that did not include secular artists but a focus on worship over musicality.
In the 20th century, the advent of contemporary music styles sparked renewed debates within Christian communities. Rock and roll, jazz, and later hip-hop faced scrutiny for their perceived rebelliousness and potential impact on moral values. However, proponents argued these genres could serve as methods for positive messages and artistic expression.
Navigating the Great Divide
Individuals often turn to their faith communities for guidance when navigating the divide between Christianity and secular music. Churches and religious leaders are crucial in providing a framework for believers to make informed decisions about the media they consume. However, even that guidance must be done with caution. In leadership, men are only humans and may be misguided in their understanding. Frankly, there are false teachers as well. Having a Berean approach is critical in deciding if the divide is warranted for your life in Christ. Conversations within these communities help individuals explore the issue’s nuances and understand the varying perspectives.
Finding Common Ground or Should We:
Amidst the diversity of opinions within the Christian community, there are efforts to find common ground. Some churches incorporate elements of secular music into worship, adapting well-known tunes with lyrics that align with Christian themes. This approach aims to bridge the gap between musical preferences while focusing on spiritual content.
Whether secular music is wrong according to the Bible is not straightforward. Interpretations vary, influenced by individual beliefs, denominational traditions, and cultural contexts. While some Christians engage exclusively with religious music, others find spiritual value in secular genres that resonate with their experiences.
Ultimately, the Bible provides principles that guide believers in navigating the diverse music landscape. The condition of the heart, discernment, and a commitment to glorifying God in all aspects of life remain central. This brings up a question: Should we find common ground? Could many, if not all, have been conditioned from experience without consulting God? How has that affected our view of music’s role in our lives?
The relationship between Christianity and secular music is complex and multifaceted, reflecting the diversity within the Christian community. While some believers embrace Christian-themed music exclusively, others value engaging with secular music that aligns with their moral values. Ultimately, the divide prompts individuals to reflect on their faith, values, and the role of cultural expressions in shaping their worldview. Through open dialogue and thoughtful consideration, Christians navigate this intersection, seeking a balance that allows them to appreciate the beauty of music while staying true to their beliefs.
As the Christian community continues to grow and develop, hopefully, toward a lifestyle that honors God, so too will the conversations surrounding music, emphasizing understanding amidst diversity.
What are your thoughts? How do you navigate the intersection of secular music and your faith? Leave a comment below.
