The Kind Of Music God Likes

I just discovered some free music from a guy named Eric Gilmour. I find it has been a blessing for me in my prayer closet.Eric Gilmour prayer closet songsTry the song, {I need you} one it's my favorites.As for Christian music, I have had to throw out some so called Christian music.Sorry just couldn't stand Petra.I have found however there is some really good inspiring music that blesses me, like David (ordinary man, extraordinary GOD)and casting crowns just to name a few.GOD Bless

I've never been able to understand the debate over Christian music and speaking in tongues. Those are the two things that I don't find confusing. God speaks and interprets one thing, the heart. There's Christian music where the words are just fine, but the singer is doing it for their own glory. I know for a fact, a very well known Gospel bunch, and I'm talking the biggest bunch in Nashville, I know for a fact, because my cousin was married to the piano player and if I called his name, everyone would know him, I know that this guy has been playing Gospel Christian music since he was 3 years old and he's heading for hell like a freightrain. There's not a person on this website who wouldn't think their music is 'godly', but the person playing it isn't. Worship is a heart matter. Same thing with tongues. God doesn't speak a particular language. You can't say someone is doing something ungodly because they are just using syllables. They might be pouring their heart out to the True and Living God. God made tongues and brains and mouths. That ain't nothin to him. I pray in tongues every day! And I do it because I can't express myself through my own understanding. I pray with understanding also. No one can tell me that a certain kind of music is ungodly because of the beat. God doesn't care about a beat. That's just determined by decibels and repitition. God cares about hearts. There are just as many hearts that are far from God playing 'Gospel' music as there are playing 'Contemporary' music. I know for a fact. If someone loves and knows God, they aren't going to be saying and doing things that dishonor God. It's that simple. That's my 2 cents. Love, Dian.

At the risk of living up to my reputation for pedantry, what is 'Christian Music'? Sometimes ago I saw an advertisement in a Christian magazine for software for a "Christian Hairdresser". It left me wondering how we might recognise a 'Christian Haircut'.'Christian' is never used as an adjective in the scriptures, only as a noun. Adjectives describe nouns and may modify them. We can put adjectives before the noun 'Christian'; good, bad, earnest... but I am not at all sure about using the word as an adjective.Can music have the life of Christ in it? Do we mean music inspired by Christ? And if it was inspired by Christ who holds the copyright?The danger is that music is used to create moods. I distrust all such music; whether it is 'worship' music in the 'minor' key, or rejoicing in the 'major'. I think it is legitimate to use music to express moods but I am personally uncomfortable when it is used to create them.In other words music is a great accompaniment, but when it leads...

The danger is that music is used to create moods. I distrust all such music; whether it is 'worship' music in the 'minor' key, or rejoicing in the 'major'. I think it is legitimate to use music to express moods but I am personally uncomfortable when it is used to create them.In other words music is a great accompaniment, but when it leads...This opens up for a great discussion. How do we distinguish the difference between 'creating' and 'expressing' moods? I have some ideas, but wondered if you would share your thoughts. Is it possible that while expressing a certain mood in worship or praise that that 'expression' actually fuels the desire to praise and worship all the more? There is a statement I hear in Pentecostal circles that states that there are two times to worship and praise God:1) When you feel like it2) When you don't feel like itYet there has to be a fine line between trying to 'work something up' or 'hype' the service up and actually singing with the intent to praise. It has been a long held belief that God inhabits the praises of His people. Add this to the admonitions of the Psalmist that we should praise with the psaltry and harp and the symbols and high sounding symbols, etc. It ends up as a procedure for attempting to get God to manifest Himself by singing and praising. Is that making sense?

Are certain styles of music "evil"?I believe Keith Green answered this question quite well, here is a clip from an article he wrote many years ago;"I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself; but to him who thinks anything is unclean, to him it is unclean."Rom 14:14I do not believe that any kind of music is "evil" in itself. I mean, that there are no such things as rhythms or chord structures or melody lines that were born in hell. The idea that the devil has invented certain styles of music so that he could capture the innocent young souls of today's youth is not only without foundation, but is the same kind of ridiculous tale that was told to young people by the church as recently as a generation ago - that "masturbation could cause blindness." Why try to scare the poor little guys into doing what's right? Why not deal with the real problem - selfishness!The suggestion that there is such a thing as intrinsically5 "good music or evil music" seems preposterous to me. I have been involved with almost every aspect of music my whole life, and I have witnessed the various effects it has had on me and other people - and I have to say that I have never once seen a case where music was the direct cause of sin or wickedness in a person's life.On the other hand, I have seen music be used as a tool for selfishness and egotism in people's lives (as well as my own). I have also seen it be used to create sensual moods by people with lust and manipulation on their minds. I have seen rock groups that were admittedly worshippers of Satan, and were open practioners of black witchcraft, who employed music as a tool to mesmerize their audiences. Yes, I must admit that it would appear to the casual observer that anyone involved with rock music could at least be charged with "guilt by association."But all the examples I mentioned above have to do with the motives of the heart, not the music itself! That is why I believe that music, in itself, is a neutral force.If you would like to read the entire article it can be found at Can God Use Rock Music?In Christ,Ron

As a young guy I think about this area a lot. Many of my contemporaries are really "into" this whole scene, and music plays a central part in how they think about there faith. Many young people's meetings are dominated by what is commonly called "The Worship". This term has become almost universal to describe music in a congregational setting.In the NT (apart from Revelation's trumpets etc) I can only think of three or four references to songs/ music (psalms, hymns and spiritual songs x2; James' "is anyone cheerful? let him sing psalms" and again in Corinthians singing in the Spirit/ with understanding + is there a reference to Jesus and the Disciples singing a hymn somewhere... maybe Mark?). So why then does this little-touched-on subject make up 80% of many of our meetings? I think, sadly, that "creating moods" might have a great deal to do with it...What do you reckon?

KrispyKrittr wrote:Personally i like all kinds of music. I happen to believe that Jesus' favorite kind of music is bluegrass. ;-) KrispyWellll, hallaluer! I rekon so! Bluegrass? I live in Ky and don't even like it. Sorry, just trying to give ya hard time KrispyI personaly think God is a fan of urban Gospel (Freddy Hammond, Joel Pace etc.). Really I think God is pleased when the music we offer up is for his glory and glorifies Him. Not to be reduntandt, but I've heard nearely every type of CCM and other brand of Christian Music--there is some that really glorify God and then there are some songs that you don't know if they're talking about Jesus or a burrito, it's so vauge.I also think it has a lot to do with the spirit attached to the music. Coletrane, who as far as i now was a believer, can blow his sax and it is great! The music is beautiful and most of the time (at least on love supreme) you get the distinct impression that it is not for the audience but for God.I think it has to do with heart. If your heart is right beofe God, then the music that flows out of it will be also. if your motives are pure then your music will be too. Then I have to consider that we are mostly speaking in trends of Western culture. What about poland or Germany? I;d say (not trying to be offesivie or funny) they may have debates on wether or not to do hymns with accordians and such. Like wise, in many Latin places, they incorperate beats and rythms that we would consider a little improper in most orthadoxed churches. Pray about what you listen to and if it jives you the wrong way, pray for the musician. As far as the where to draw the line. . . that's a whol other thread.

So why then does this little-touched-on subject make up 80% of many of our meetings? I think, sadly, that "creating moods" might have a great deal to do with it...Great comment here nimble. There is a story that when Watchman Nee visited England he was asked his overall impression of the church. His quaint answer was 'too much little book, not enough big book'.There is a massive presumption that you haven't had a meeting unless 50% of it was music and at least 10 mintues notices. Why? keep asking that question! :-D

'Personally i like all kinds of music. I happen to believe that Jesus' favorite kind of music is bluegrass'Excellent!! That is very good news for all us bluegrass fans!This wouldn't have anything to do with you playing a five string banjo would it? :-P

Hi Krispy - I'm 20!KrispyKrittr wrote:I'll tell ya what ushered me into the presence of God... salvation!exactly! that's where its at.Oh, and my little brother plays the Mandolin! haha long live Chris Thile! (sorry clueless, couldn't help it ;)

(please dont let this venture off into a conversation about tongues... there are other threads for that. Lets stay focussed!)Hi krispy,Are you referring to this passage? What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. (I Corinthians 14:15)OrLet the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. (Colossians 3:16)OrSpeaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; (Ephesians 5:19)Of course the 'model' for thansgiving, praise, and worship is based upon:Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. (Psalm 100:4)This is a metaphorical progression entering the Wilderness Tabarnacle. It is a commentary as it were on:Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4)Moreover we are told to set our affections on things above and not on the earth. This is to be a literal house from which prayer and praise unto God is offered up unto God continually; that is the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name. It is called - the Sacrifice of Praise! If we find our primary expression of Faith towards God in thanksgiving, praise, Worship, study (as do the Jews) and service in pure religion, it will protect us from finding our expression in other negative things.God Bless,-Robert

Krispy-KrispyKrittr wrote:Rock music has permeated the entire planet... other countries have to deal with this issue too.KrispyWHAT! Your kidding! :-P I know, I was just trying to say would some churches have a problem here in the states if I where to whip out the congos/bongos and do a "traditional" Latin Hymn. BTW Nickel Creek makes good music. They did a show here not to long ago and my lil brother got to meet them. He's a guitarist and I play an instrument too.

I think it boils down to the basic thought that music helps us say what we cannot say on our own, kind of like when you pray a psalm. I agree that this becomes a major issue, it has been in our church when we started doing more "contmperary worship". "I like philogo's point, what makes music 'chrsitian'"here in the store we call a whole genere of music "praise and worship". Praise being fast, worshp being slow. yet what makes it worship? The words? the musical style? or the heart? As stated before, i think it is a heart issue. huey lewis? ---wow---that's old skool. ;-)

Hi, Some interesting thoughts...esp in your current situation wow :) That must be "Fun"Jesus is leading me further and further down the track of obedience, rather than Principles or rules. - Galations 5Moses for example was well within "the rules" to strike the rock the second time, and water did flow once again, but he didn't see the Kingdom because of his disobedience.How much more in these days when God writes his words on our hearts.Combining these concepts with what Ron wrote from Keith Green. Seems to resonate some level of truth to me. Any thoughts?Mind you I am in the process of being born again! A 'Christian' all my life and really I have only of the past few months had a personal reverlation of Jesus...isn't He awesome!!Maybe source for a discussion point, is there any difference between a christian and a disciple? And if not...why do so many christians not FOLLOW Him, lose thier lives, Love Him more than their own Mother, Brother...etc? I'll post it :)

Psalm 137:1-6 - " By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion. There on the poplars we hung our harps, for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy; they said, 'Sing us one of the songs of Zion!'. How can we sing the songs of the Lord while in a foreign land? If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget it's skill. May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not consider Jerusalem my highest joy."As a worship leader, this Scripture is very important to me. I would rather forget how to make music than to sing the songs of the Lord for the world: in carnality, pride, self-love, entertainment, etc.For Him, or none at all.Also, Amos 5:21-24 (READ THIS) condemns even godly worship that is done where no righteousness or justice exists.

I sing for a band of beleivers, and we tend to rearrainge CCM music out of musical joy. We also interject secular tunes regarding the human condition in order to show the example of our weakness (as He is strong).Expressing ourselves as a reflection of the joy of our salvation is like art itself; beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The Rom 14:14 passage cited keeps us wary, and hopefully honest, though.People seem to react best to our music when they can see the sentiment and reliance on God, and feel it. At least as a vocalist I beleive this. My battle is not letting it go to my head when they think I am really 'on'...Huey Lewis? Gosh, I am glad we had Tears for Fears in the 80's!Luther used beer hall tunes at times.Remember to pray for Christian musicians!

Hello Eli,Sadly, the position of Worship Leader in this thread today was negated, or at least called into question. The opinion given it may not be a gifted position that is included with 1 Cor 12:28? David was very serious in his approach to the ministry of music in the Tabernacle, as you can read in 1 Chronicles. David told the leaders of the Levites to appoint their brothers as singers to sing joyful songs, accompanied by musical instruments: lyres, harps and cymbals. Heman and Jeduthan were responsible for the sounding of the trumpets and cymbals and for the playing of other instruments for sacred songs.Some of the words in these passages and similar passages are “appoint”, “responsible”, “designate”, and “chosen”. The Ministry of praise and music was considered so critical and important to the functions of the priesthood that men were carefully selected and consecrated to that ministry. These people were appointed full-time to fulfill their ministry of praise unto the Lord.How does this Colossians passage fit in ? “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. “ (Colossians 3:16)I guess I am posting this because of the Lord’s displeasure with me, of minimizing in the past even recent past, of Ministry in the Body of Christ.Blessings,tony

What is the basic definition of music? Music--Vocal or instrumental sounds possessing a degree of melody, harmony, or rhythm. Praise/Worship--The reverent love and devotion accorded to God or The ceremonies, prayers, or other religious forms by which this love is expressed. pleasing-Giving pleasure or enjoyment; agreeable.Those three things should be the measuring rod of the kind of music God likes.

Since we do not worship in the same manner as they did in the OT in the temple, what place does music have in the NT gatherings of believersNothing in the Old Covenant compares to the riches and fulness to what we have in the New. They were a shadow of things to come. We as believers are lively stones builded together as a habitation of God by the Spirit. My house shall be called the house of prayer... as it is written. Steven remanded the people for doing exactly what Christians often do today; "You do always resist the Holy Ghost- as your fathers did so do ye." The context of this was trying to assign God to a building when no building can house His majesty. Having been made free from the power of Sin how ought we to praise? Having been redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb how then ought we to give thanks? The Father seeketh such to worship Him. How do we worship? How did David worship? these things are written as our ensamples... Once he danced before the Lord with all his might. How had we responded to his rejoicing? Had we begrudged it and looked upon him to dispise what he did? Oh that I had plucked my own eyes out before I looked on a worshipper with disdain! The Ark was coming into the Camp and He was overflowing with abandonment! God saw it and when his wife touched that worship God touched her (and it wasn't with a blessing). How then when the Ark of God comes into our hearts ought we to have worshipped? The Angels worship God having a desire to look into the things that we experience! I believe it is an abomination to God that a helmet wearing mortal man can carry a brown funny shapped ball across a line someplace and the people rejoice around this nation, lifting up their voices like a trumpet, acting foolish in their praise of that 'man'; but the Ark of God can be carried on the wings of the Holy Ghost into the heart of a sin sick man who was dead in sin and bound for a devils hell and can't even as much as shout a simple Praise God!. We ought to have gotten almost wreckless in our praise! We are the REDEEMED! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! What saith the scripture? Clap your hands all ye people- SHOUT unto God with a voice of triumph for the Lord our God is Awesome... He is the Great King over all the earth. God inhabiteth the praises of His people! I believe the enemy has caused many to despise praise and worship and had they praised Him and worshipped they had been filled with the Spirit. Beloved, if the Saints of the Old Testament had cause to praise and worship God- how ought not we to be as the creatures who circle the throne day and night crying, HOLY HOLY HOLY is the Lord of hosts- the whole Earth is FILLED with His Glory! When we get a revelation of God we will reverence Him. When we reverence Him we can worship Him. And when we worship Him- His presence will rest upon us. Oh, that we would allow the praise of our lips to offer up praise continually! God Bless,-Robert

I had this belated thought come to mind:What if God had said to us:"You mean I did all that and thats all the Praise I get?"

And what if Archeologists were to find a 1st Church of Corinth Worship DVD? :-) Would we then set about to duplicate the style in its totality?Would we then boast that finally a pure and authentic worship service has been restored to the Church?Typically style of music, and personal preferences are the real motivators behind much of the opinions concerning Music in the Church.Read this list compiled by one Minister as reasons for opposing the new music trend of his day:1) It’s too new, like an unknown language2) It’s not so melodious as the more established style3) This new music creates disturbances and causes people to act in an indecent and disorderly manner4) It places too much emphasis on instrumental music rather than on Godly lyrics.5) The lyrics are often worldly, even blasphemous6) It is a contrivance to get money7) These new musicians are young upstarts, and some of them are lewd and loose persons.Now for the really ironic part……… this was written in 1723 used to oppose the use of HYMNS!!!!Seems crazy, some of these same arguments are given today, not against hymns but rather against contemporary music and choruses.God Bless,tony

TonyS... excellent points. I think you may be on to something, however, temple worship and structure in the OT is vastly different from the NT church. Not that you're wrong... I dont think you are necessarily.Can I suggest that folks get a floorplan of Solomon's (David's) Temple, and of Herod's Temple and then ask the question "where were the musicians?". The sacrifices took place outside the real shrine of the Temple, inside the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place there was silence.

Can I suggest that folks get a floorplan of Solomon's (David's) Temple, and of Herod's Temple and then ask the question "where were the musicians?". The sacrifices took place outside the real shrine of the Temple, inside the Holy Place and the Most Holy Place there was silence.This is a good point. I never realized how many aspects to Herod's Temple existed until I saw it drawn out in 2 whole semesters. :-? I did not have the patience to take them, but I sat in on a few classes. There are models of it in Israel now that are pretty neat to look at. I have not seen it in person- but in slides and stuff. The thing that I think is worth noting also is that the Holiest of All was not just totally silent, but was shrouded in total darkness. Silent darkness until the Glory of God came down. The priests had to go into there through a veil that was woven of one seam 4 inches thick (roughly). There was no opening and it is still a mystery how the High Priest got back there alone with a vessel of blood in his hands. Some have theorized that the Glory of God drew them through the veil without lifting it. We often tried to understand the metaphor of it all. One of the worst chidings I took from the Jewish Instructor was when I asked if it were true that the 'gate' to the outer court was called the "the Way", the door to the Holy Place was called "The Truth", and the Veil to the Holy of Holies was called "The Life." I never got an answer and was chided for asking a typical Gentile type question. Yet, they seemed to feel the horizontal layout was really a type of vertical approach to God. Imagine the Tabernacle flipped standing strait up with the Holy of Holies at the top. The Veil blocked anyone save the High Priest from coming to the 'Throne' as it were. yet we know now that veil was rent through His body, that is to say, His flesh. So what offerings are we to make now? We need not bring the blood of bulls and of goats. What shall we bring? By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. (KJV) But go on doing good and giving to others, because God is well-pleased with such offerings.(BBE) (Hebrews 13:15, 16). Under the Old Covenant they entered his 'gates' with thanksgiving and into His 'courts' with praise. They could go no farther. Yet we can come 'boldly' unto the throne of grace. This, to me, is a progression. And I do agree with Bro. Ron that as we get closer to the Throne of Grace the more silent we are apt to become. It is at these places where 'deep calls to deep' and words only get in the way. God Bless,-Robert

Thanks for straightening me out on Luther; guess I was mixed up with our National Anthem! :-P Pretty lame for an ELCA guy...Glossy pop?!? I suppose if one was entranced with AC/DC, then one would interpret Tears music that way. Huey was actually the glossy type. But of course opinions in music are like...I beleive singer and musician reqs of David's old covenant era were fulfilled by Christ's revelation in the same way all Levitical pomp was. Are there 'Levites' today after the cross, who can faithfully determine what musical styles are proper, and which singers are fit for service?

What are peoples favorite christian music ?

Ron is on the target. I travel to many different churches and the music is equated with worship because it puts people in a quieted mood. So that's worship? I don't think so.I won't go there. I was however talking to some big name christian artists about the whole copy write/download contraversy going on right now and how quick they are to jump on the band wagon and sue people who download music for thier personal edification. Thier whole arguement really came down to 2 things: 1)they believe they are the modern move of God to bring Revival to the body of Christ (pride) 2) money issues . I'm a trouble maker I guess because I asked them that exact question, "who gave you the inspiration for the songs you sing and play or perform"? They really don't like answering that question. Then I would follow it up with Jesus' quote "freely you have recieved freely you shall give". I'm the bad guy now and avoided. O' well.

There were levites in the OT temple who worshipped the Lord themselves and as they worshipped the Lord the people would get caught up in worship with them. However I feel that worship in the context of praise & worship is a very restrictive and limited view of worship. Many christains who sing/play musically in the stage-concert style performences are in it for the buck. Thier music draws attention to alot of other things and not nessarily Jesus. And while thier are true muscians anointed by God for the purpose of edification, you'll easily know by what you're being drawn to, them as a band--thier music as a style---the message they sing --- the feeling it brings---- or do they simply direct your attention fully on Jesus and exalt Him.

Soul Gospel and jazz for me.

This is the only definition I found but I dont really know the definition. I think it should glorify God but this question is hard? I think it should generally glorify Jesus Christian music is music created by or adapted for the Christian churchfromhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christian_Music

I don't want to dive too deeply in this topic yet, but I did want to say that my "taste" for music changed after I gave my life back to Jesus.Before I met the Lord when I was 15, and I was really into alot of what I thought was great music. I wasn't into sexual, violent or even morally delinquent music. I just enjoyed alot of popular music, including alot of what was presented from "christian groups." However, after I meeting the Lord, I really don't remember wanting to listen to anything OTHER than the music that turned my heart to Him. I was saved at a Christian Youth Camp (out in a field one night -- but that's another story). The day that I returned home, I was actually grounded for something that I did before I went to camp. So I had a few days to spend completely at home. I spent some time cleaning out my room, throwing away things that I wasn't certain that the Lord would be pleased with -- including just about all of my music. :P At night, I went downstairs to one of our living rooms. My mom and dad had their music collection on a shelf, along with our stereo. She didn't have alot of music, but she did have some old tapes of a guy named Keith Green (among a few others like Twila Paris, Dallas Holm, and alot of Praise/Worship music). The first song that I played was entitled, "When I Hear the Praises Start," and it brought me to tears. I heard several songs on that tape, including "Your Love Broke Through," and "I Only Want to See You There." I listened to that tape until it finally fell apart from use. Eventually, I bought the entire CD collection from a bookstore. During that time, I didn't spend alot of time listening to music. I had a youth Pastor that didn't believe in "Christian Rock-N-Roll," but i had a Pastor who accepted just about ANYTHING that talked about God -- rock, rap, hip-hop, etc...ANYTHING. I don't think that I really allowed anyone to influence me, but I wanted my beliefs to be founded on the Word. I remember listening to some songs, by which I felt totally drawn to the Lord through. I also remember hearing some songs that I had a funny, almost uneasy, feeling inside of me. But I didn't really make judgments about anything. I just listened to what drew my spirit (not my soul or flesh) to the Lord.One day, I heard some people arguing about music.One was saying that music (or musicians) that is influenced by the world is not an "acceptable offering" to God. The other guy just kept complaining that the first guy was juegmental and "closed minded." I was very troubled by the argument. That night, when I spent time in prayer, I decided to bring it to the Lord. For the first time, instead of asking God whether one song or another song was a "good" or "righteous" song, I asked the Lord a question. I asked, "Father, what type of music do you like?" I never heard a voice -- not even a still small voice -- tell me that the Lord liked one type of music over another. However, I did feel -- deep inside of me -- that the Lord was pleased that I had asked Him. I felt that He was pleased that I was willing to ask, and would accept His answer regardless. If He were to have told me to disregard any particular style of music -- I would have, without a question or regret. Or if He would have told me to accept all music without question, I would have done so too. But I didn't hear that. All that I felt was that God was pleased that I was willing to lay down my desires in order to please His own. Unfortunately, I know alot of people that unwilling to do this. Some are so narrow-minded, that they will not give this question honestly to the Lord. They either claim that they "know" all music is acceptable to God, or claim that they "know" much music is "christian" in name only.I don't listen to alot of music that is presented today on christian radio stations. Often, I'm not really certain why. Sometimes, the music is such a blatant rip-off of a popular worldly song, I just feel a sense of hurt -- that someone was offering God a "leftover" or perhaps "2nd hand" sacrifice. Then, there are some "christian" songs that are almost blatantly ANTI-GOD in their message that I feel almost angry when I hear it. Some are from head-banging hard-rockers with multiple piercings and costumes (Marylyn Manson wannabes) -- who have blatantly REFUSED to surrender their love for their lifestyle at the foot of the cross. I don't discard these singers. I only pray that they come to a realization that they must lay down their own youthful lust for the things of this world for the greater glory of giving their 100% all to God.Some churches seem to put such a sad emphasis on the "talent" of their musically-inclined youth, that they will let them do anything as long as they "stay busy for the Lord." So these youth keep receiving praise for playing their guitars, drums and keyboards -- while we neglect praising young people who are faithful in prayer or modesty.And of course, there are those who are so conservative that they will call any music with a minor key or drumbeat "satanic."I suggest that everyone with a question about music (and those who think that they are "sure" about their convictions about music) to just lay the question WHOLEHEARTEDLY and HONESTLY at the feet of the Lord. What harm could this do? In fact, I believe that it would actually be pleasing to the Lord if you are willing to give up ANYTHING for Him. Today, I miss hearing music like that of Keith Green. He died so long ago (long before I was born again). There is some great christian music out there -- but so much of it seems recorded for the purpose of fame, or making money, to "draw the lost" by using secular-sounding music as bait, or for the purpose of "keeping young church-people entertained." But ever so often, you hear a song that lights a fire in your heart for the Lord! May God raise up many Christian musicians who don't care about money or fame -- but desire to passionately poor out their hearts to the Lord! I come from a family full of singers and musicians. My mom leads worship at my hometown church. My sisters sing very openly for the Lord at church. I have a large list of songs that I play on my guitar. But I don't do this on a stage. Nor do I surround myself with other christian musicians in order to play in a group. In fact, I actually don't want people to know that I play. When the pastor of my church asks me to play, I tell him that I really don't like to. Instead, I use my guitar as an instrument of praise, worship, adoration or meditation in the privacy of my dorm room. Sometimes, I take my guitar out to a lonely park, and just pour out lovesongs from my heart to the Lord.Well, I guess I did dive a little deeper than I wanted to. I need to get back to studying for a Physics exam. Speaking of, could you guys join with me in prayer that the party guy who lives in the dorm next to me will TURN DOWN HIS BASE? Its thumping my walls, and I really do need to get some studying (and sleeping) done. :-P Have a wonderfully blessed night!

Wow -- I didn't mean to write a book. :PSorry that my post was sooooo long! :oops:

I've been reading through this thread this afternoon...and I have to say that it is really interesting. Does anyone else have a suggestion as to what music (group, artist, CD, etc...) that you find the most inspiring or spiritually edifying?I still have to say Keith Green is at the top of my list. I know that he has been dead for a very long time -- but hearing him certainly makes my heart yearn for the Lord even more!I also enjoy listening to messianic worship as well -- especially acoustic Biblical psalms in hebrew.

What about where the music comes from the beatles called themselves antichrist. Isnt it smart to actually find out the root of where something comes from and why they are writing it. Isnt also listening to christian music a good witness and the amount of praise and worship music is dwindling on the fact that christians arent buying it. Love not the world nor the things in the world becuase the love of the father is not in youWe need more Praise and Worship music !!!

The problem is that if there is no new worship leaders out there there is no new keith greens or larry normans because people only play what they are into. So there is no new worship music. Most worship cds are copies from either matt redman, the integrity lot, vineyard thats about it

I had my housemates praising and worshiping god even thou they did not even know what they were singing they were non christians. That is why I like christian music alot because it glorify Jesus Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, 2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) 3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; 4 And declared F1 to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead: 5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience F2 to the faith among all nations, for his name: 6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: 7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. 8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with F3 my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers; 10 Making request, if by any means now at length I might have a prosperous journey by the will of God to come unto you. 11 For I long to see you, that I may impart unto you some spiritual gift, to the end ye may be established; 12 That is, that I may be comforted together with F4 you by the mutual faith both of you and me. 13 Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among F5 you also, even as among other Gentiles. 14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. 15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. 16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; 19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; F6 for God hath shewed it unto them. 20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so F7 that they are without excuse: 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. 24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28 And even as they did not like to retain F8 God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: 32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do themThis is a good passage I have not good answer to your question other than that i love praising god outside church and I wish I did it more

I agree

nimble wrote:I think, sadly, that "creating moods" might have a great deal to do with it...What do you reckon?Sorry I have not replied earlier to this thread, I have'nt really looked at it. As has been said that is a good point.Lets take that into a real life church setting, in a 'average' church filled with 'average' christians. The music team leads the people in praise and worship, they lead the congregation into the presence of the Lord. They have been worshiping in their closets and practising hours before the meeting. They are with God and God is with them, but how many of the folk that rock up to church are in that same place. From the church that I go to, not many, not that there is anything 'wrong' with the church.One of the music leaders in our church, likens the music as washing the peoples feet, we all know that every member in the congregation should be prayed up and ready to make a contribution, but sadly it is not so. God would have to send revival for it to be a reality that they do it because they love God. He sees it as an ministry washing people and serving them to get their hearts to connect with the Lord.I said all that because in essence they (the music team) are creating an atmosphere/mood by the music/lyrics that God has laid upon their hearts. Is that so bad? How many times is praise a sacrifice that we are not willing to bring or give, but in an atmosphere of abandoned praise, suddenly that which seemed so dear to us is lost in the corporate expression of love to God. We willing give our all. If you have ever seen people at a concert of any kind you will know what I mean. The next comment may be 'thats ungodly manipulation'. Well in part it is correct, but (a) its plain human nature and (b) if the focus is the Lordship of Christ, is corporate faith and expectation bad?For me I believe that the music leaders have prepared their hearts and have some clue as to where the meeting is going along with the eldership. Based on that trust, I express my praise and worship in that context in whatever form it may be.In smaller group meetings this may be a lot different, so I suppose the chances of there being chaos if everyone leads the music is a lot less than in a big cogregation.

KrispyKrittr wrote:But let me ask you this... with all the music thats already out there, would it be such a horrible thing if we went a little while with no new worship music? Certainly not, but what we may miss are aspects and pictures of Gods heart and what he is doing on this earth. I think with anyone who has the that particular gifting, it is about bringing out treasures old and new in regards to God and his work on this planet expressed through the music/lyrics.

KrispyKrittr wrote:It's impossible to worship God outside of a true realization of Who God is, and outside of a relationship with Him. Your friends were not worshipping God. I see it this way, they may not have been consciously given him glory, but they where proclaiming his praise (presuming on what the song was). His name was been glorified, I mean if the rocks will cry out and all creation calls that there is a God, will he refuse praise originating from dead spirits?

KrispyKrittr wrote:But who am I? huh:-?

Does anyone else have a suggestion as to what music (group, artist, CD, etc...) that you find the most inspiring or spiritually edifying?Jason Upton. Anyone of the CD he has out are wonderful. I met him a few summers ago and he isn't in it for the money--nor the fame--he just loves Jesus. You can ehar his heart in his music.

I like Lyn DeshazoHave any of you heard Me unto your name on the Revivial in Belfast Album or Lord you are more precious that Silver. I liked her because when we saw her she was dressed normaly and didnt act like a worship leader acts. I completly was miffed. I also like alot of other people but she is one of my favorite including paul wilbur.