Christians and Secular Music
By David Ettinger
Familiar Ground
A Christian for almost 37 years, this topic is familiar ground on which I’ve trodden quite a few times. I do so again for 2 reasons: 1) I never blogged about it, and 2) It was raised at church yesterday.
Some have completely given it up, but some, such as myself, still listen to secular music, though I am very careful about what I listen to.
Yesterday at church, in delivering an excellent message, our brand new, young associate pastor alluded to this topic when he said something to the effect of: “You should not be listening to music not devoted to God.”
Let me share a few thoughts and after, please, share your views!
What’s the Difference?
The young man also stated that God has given the world certain “good things” we can enjoy providing we don’t turn them into idols. I agree.
He specifically mentioned that he enjoys watching movies, and has particular fondness for “Star Wars.” He didn’t elaborate, but I’m sure he would not indulge in movies containing swear words, excessive violence, taking the Lord’s name in vain, and, of course, sexual content.
Therefore, I ask you, why is it okay to watch secular movies but not listen to secular music? I’m talking about a given movie or piece of music that in no way degrades God or upholds unbiblical practices.
Why is it okay for an evangelical Christian to watch “Star Wars” but not be okay with me listening to a beautiful ballad by the Beatles such as “The Long and Winding Road”?
I mean, this Beatles ballad is a lovely, reflective song themed with sad overtones as Paul McCartney wrote it in the midst of the band’s breakup. It has a touching, heartfelt feel to which many listeners can relate.
“Star Wars,” on the other hand, though containing some nice “human” touches, features space battles, smart-mouthed protagonists, and, most notably, the “force” – some kind of all-powerful consciousness that aids individuals in their endeavors.
“Star Wars” also contains a random assemblage of religious beliefs mixed into some kind of spiritual concoction that guides people and actions. It’s entertaining, but not an iota of it glorifies the God of the Bible.
What Do You Think?
That was just one example of the secular nature of music and movies, and there is no need to overstate it, but there are numerous examples of secular entertainment – such as “The Long and Winding Road” – that certainly does not glorify God, but in no way demeans Him or the Bible.
So, what do you think? Are you a lover of the Lord Jesus Christ who listens to secular music and watches secular movies? Or do you just watch secular movies but don’t listen to secular music?
If the latter, please explain your thinking and what you see as the difference between secular music and secular movies.
Likewise, if you enjoy both secular music and movies, or don’t engage in either, please share your insights on this sometimes divisive issue.
Thank you for your insights!
David Ettinger was born and raised in a Jewish family in New York. After moving to New Mexico as an adult, he suffered through many trials. The nudge of the Holy Spirit caused him to examine his heart and in 1986 he surrendered his life to Jesus and has walked with Him ever since. David holds a BA, and MA, in English from New Mexico State University. He began his journalism career writing for The Roundup, the university paper. After graduation he became the sportswriter for the El Paso Times. He has held many other positions as both writer and editor with major publications. David is active in providing his skills with Zion’s Hope, Inc., in Winter Garden, Florida. His publications include Lifeway publications, Single Parent magazine (Focus on the Family), Zion’s Fire magazine, and Real Life magazine. In addition, he served as managing editor for Zion’s Fire and Real Life. David’s book, Overcomers: 30 Stories of Triumph from the Bible, is available online. David is proud of his son and grandson. Please read his testimony here, on his website.
Feture Photo by WallpaperCave
If a Christian feels they cannot listen to secular music then that’s a personal choice but to follow that reasoning would they then need to give up all literature that is not Christian based or have reference to non Christian subjects. So maybe best not turn on the TV and heaven forbid they go to a museum or art show.
Time to be a monk in some far flung monastery so you can’t be influenced by the big bad world.
But that’s not what we are called too. We are to be in the world and be the light that shines in the darkness and to be that we need to know and see what the world knows and sees. Then be our conduct, our words and our love can we be effective witnesses for our Lord.
Hi Keith! Thanks for taking the time to read and comment on our post. In Romans 12:1-2 Paul instructs us to “NOt be transformed to this world but to transformed by the renewal of our minds.” And in Philippians 2:12 he instructs us to, “… continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling.” We are definitely a part of this world but we cannot allow it to become us. I love secular music, well, most of it. But there is some I do not like becasue it has satanic overtones. Since the greatest commandment is to love the Lord our God with all of our heart mind and soul, listneing to that kind of music does not glorify God. He created us to enjoy music, and I beleive even secular music. But He does NOT want us to let it control us, especially what it teaches. My thoughts are that God gave us a discerning spirit, and the Holy Spirit, to guide us and alert us to what is evil. When we recognize that a particular piece of music is wrong we are to run from it as we would any other things that are evil and keep us away from God. So, as you work out your walk with God, listen to Him. He will not guide you in the wrong direction. That includes listening to secular music, or reading good books ( I also enjoy many of those, especially a good crime mystery). By the way, I also love the Beetles!