We are living in a day when you can't tell what things are by their label or sign. We are facing something today called "Christian rock" or "Contemporary Christian music." It is the same music as rock 'n' roll, but with Christian words. Instead of glorifying Satan, drugs, sex, and rebellion, today's "Christian rock" seeks to glorify God, the Bible, love, and fellowship. The sad thing is that Christians and churches are playing and accepting this type of music.

I was alarmed the other day when I received a magazine entitled "Creation '97." This is supposed to be the nation's largest Christian festival. Inside the magazine were groups that looked worse, as far as appearance, than "hard rock" groups. Some were "Christian rock," "Christian alternative," and many others. I don't care what title you put on the label; if the music, not just the words, does not bring honor and glory to the name of Jesus, then it is wrong. Speaking at the festival was Anthony Campolo, a liberal himself, who said, "Being in the back room with many of these famous groups before they go on stage is absolutely frightening—the ego trips they are on and the language they use, to hear their hate for others—when show time comes, however, they go out on stage with 'Hey, aren't we together in Jesus Christ and the love we share, etc."' (Christian News Encyclopedia, Vol. 5).

It is time for youth workers and parents to wake up. Satan is trying to deceive us into thinking that because it has the word Christian on the label everything is fine. My Bible still says, "Abstain from all appearance (or forms) of evil." (1Thess. 5:22). Romans 12:2 says, "And be not conformed to this world...." It is time that we take a stand for God and righteousness. You are either on the Lord's side or Satan's side. On which side are you? Let's get back to the music that brings honor and glory to our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

(This short article is reprinted with the permission of The Baptist Pillar, J. W. Reaves Editor and Pastor. The Baptist Trumpeter is shocked and appalled at what is being allowed in the church under the guise of "Christian Music." This is nothing short of an abomination before the Lord. To openly pollute our sanctuaries and places of worship with this ungodly music is at best distasteful and at worst sinful. Pastors and Youth Ministers need to examine any ministry that is not God honoring and does not edify our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are not in the ministry of entertainment but in the ministry of developing the minds and characters of our young people. What’s wrong with the Rock of Ages or the Old Rugged Cross? Just not entertaining enough for the young mind or does it not meet their expectations? If the Sermon on the Mount was being preached to our young people today, it would not be complete without some good Christian Rock and some Body Surfing; might as well throw in a beach ball for good measure! Ed.)

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Revised: February 14, 2005