Introduction

     There has been much said concerning the subjects of secular
rock music, rock lyrics, and the lifestyles of rock musicians.
Whole books have been dedicated to the research of such subjects.
It is not my intention to discuss these issues in detail, but to
provide some helpful insight into the general nature of music and
to introduce some guidelines in judging its influence. In this
paper I will deal primarily with three basic questions. They are
as follows:

          1. What does the Bible teach regarding music
          2. Can music itself be good or evil?
          3. How can one discern what music is good or evil?

     In answering these questions, I will be using the tes-
timonies of the holy scriptures, personal experience, and an
appeal to the conscience. These three sources are useful in
bearing witness to the truth (2 Timothy 3:16, Ephesians 5:8-10, 2
Corinthians 4:2). In discussing this subject, it is necessary to
lay certain foundations to eliminate any semantic difficulties.
First, when the word "music" is being used, I am referring only
to the sound produced by musical instruments, i.e., chords,
rhythms, notes, beats, etc., and not the lyrics. Second, there is
a vast difference between criticizing something based on personal
opinion and cultural preference and judging something based on
the truth of God's word. The scriptures teach us to judge all
things (1 Corinthians 2:15, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, John 7:24,
Hebrews 5:14). 
     The Lord commands us to distinguish between the clean and
the unclean, the holy and the unholy (Leviticus 10:10, Ezekiel
22:26, 2 Corinthians 6:17). In order to obey these commands
successfully, we must learn how to judge righteously. It is with
this principle in mind that I will be approaching this subject.
Although this paper will be dealing primarily with the general
nature of music and its uses, there will be a special emphasis on
"hard rock music" with its variations (heavy metal, acid rock,
British R & B, punk rock, new wave, hardcore, etc.).

Musical Instruments

     In the past and in recent times, there seems to have been a
slight controversy over the nature of musical instruments. Some
have suggested that certain instruments are evil in themselves.
These individuals claim that the instruments that are widely used
to produce rock music are evil, such as the electric guitar and
bass. Others hold to the view that all instruments are good in
themselves because they have the ability to produce music that
glorifies God. The truth about the nature of musical instruments
can be found in the Bible.
     Musical instruments are mentioned frequently in the
scriptures, especially in the Old Testament. Among the different
instruments mentioned are harps, psalteries, timbrels, cornets,
cymbals, organs, tabrets, trumpets, pipes, viols, dulcimers,
flutes, and sackbuts (2 Samuel 6:5, Psalms 150:3-5, Genesis
31:27, I Kings 1:40, Amos 5:23, Daniel 3:5). In studying these
instruments from the scriptures, it appears that instruments in
themselves are neither good or evil. Instruments seem to be
neutral devices. Nevertheless, these devices can be used for good
or evil purposes. For example, the harp, cornet, and psaltery
were used by David and the house of Israel to worship God (2
Samuel 6:5). On the other hand, during the time of Daniel these
same instruments were used to worship King Nebuchadnezzar's
golden image, a false god (Daniel 3:4-6). In another passage, God
tells Israel to take away the noise of their songs for He will
not hear the melody of their viols (Amos 5:21-27). Isaiah 5:11-13
states that in spite of the fact that God's people used musical
instruments in their feasts of worship, He judged them for not
considering His work.
     These passages indicate that God is not concerned so much
with music or instruments, but with the heart attitude of the
musician. Therefore, from these scriptures it would be safe to
conclude that musical instruments in themselves are neutral tools
that can be sanctified or defiled depending on how they are used
and by whom they are used. 

The Purpose of Music

     According to the Bible, music was frequently used for
worshipping the Lord. The scriptures state that King David made
musical instruments for the specific purpose of praising the Lord
(2 Chronicles 7:6). David had committed the ministry of praising
God with musical instruments to 4,000 Levites after Solomon had
become king (1 Chronicles 23:1-6). Furthermore, David had given
the Levites authority to appoint singers and musicians for the
service of God (1 Chronicles 15:16-24,28). In one passage, the
musical instruments used to glorify God are actually called
"instruments of God" (1 Chronicles 16:42). David wrote many
psalms encouraging people to praise God with music and instru-
ments (Psalms 33:2,3; 81:1-4; 150:3-6).
     It is clear from these scriptures that God is certainly not
against music in itself. These passages rather reveal that God
created music for His glory and honor. Nevertheless, as we shall
discuss in more detail, Satan perverts the beautiful things that
God creates. This would imply that there are some types of music
that do not bring glory to God.
     When realizing that music was intended to glorify and honor
the Lord, a person should begin to use music for this purpose. In
1 Corinthians 10:31, the Apostle Paul instructs believers to do
all things for God's glory. In studying the purpose of music, the
question may arise: just how does music glorify and bring praise
to God? To answer this, it may be helpful to define the term
"praise." According to the dictionary, praise is the act of
expressing admiration, laudation, and commendation. It means to
extol, honor, and glorify. The Hebrew word for praise used in
the previous scripture references is "yadah", which means to
revere or worship and is also translated "thanksgiving." The
Bible states that God delights in and inhabits the praises of men
(Psalms 22:3, Matthew 21:15-16, Luke 19:37-40). Although music
serves as a means of praising God, I do not think that the music
itself is what directly affects Him. Rather, it is the heart
attitude of the musician as stated earlier. We have already
discussed some examples in which God rejected the music of His
people because their hearts' were not right (Amos 5:21-27). The
Bible also says that the wicked use music as well as the people
of God (Job 21:7-15). Certainly the Lord does not accept their
music for the scripture says, "the eyes of the Lord are over the
righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face
of the Lord is against them that do evil" (1 Peter 3:12). The
following two statements explain how music glorifies God:

       1. Music glorifies God by communicating godly
          attitudes and emotions to man's spirit,
          enhancing his ability to worship and to be
          sensitive to God.
 
       2. Music glorifies God by aiding man in
          expressing himself to God, facilitating
          worship in spirit and in truth.

     An important element to consider in these two points is that
music was made for man. I believe music was made for man in much
the same way as the sabbath was made for man (Mark 2:27). Among
other things, the sabbath day was designed to give man rest and
refreshment with devotion of God as the primary motive in view
(Exodus 20:10,11; 23:12). In the same sense, music was designed
to minister attitudes and emotions to man making it conducive for
him to praise, worship, and express himself to God. However, it
is imperative to realize that devotion to God is the ultimate
purpose in music; God blesses us with good things to enjoy in Him
and never to consume them upon our own lusts (James 4:3). 

Music and the Anointing

     The Bible gives several examples concerning the relationship
between music and the anointing to prophesy. In 1 Samuel 10:5,
the word of God says that a company of prophets would prophesy
with a psaltery, a tabret, a harp, and a pipe before them. 2
Kings 3:10-16 gives the account of the prophet Elisha requesting
a minstrel (musician) to play before he prophesied. When the
minstrel played, the hand of the Lord (God's anointing) came upon
Elisha and he began to prophesy in the Lord's name. Finally, in 1
Chronicles 25:1-7, David and the captains of the host separated
men for the service of God who should, "prophesy with harps, with
psalteries, and with cymbals."
     It is clear from these passages that music has the ability
to enhance God's anointing and inspire the prophets. The
explanation for how this works has been stated beforehand, i.e.,
music can communicate godly attitudes and emotions to man,
enhancing his sensitivity to God. A major purpose of music is to
alter man's mood and attitude in a positive way. The key word
here is "positive." If music can communicate godly attitudes and
make man sensitive to God, then it is logical to assume that
music can communicate ungodly attitudes and cause man to be
insensitive to God as well. This concept will be the subject of
the following sections of this paper. 

What is Music?

     Music is a language, a mode of communication, just as words
are. Music is a language communicating emotions. A body of words
are a language communicating knowledge.  Although music primarily
communicates emotions, it can indirectly convey knowledge as
well. Likewise, words primarily communicate knowledge; however,
they have a minor ability to impart emotions. This definition can
be helpful in understanding the influence of music. We can
understand music clearer if we relate its ability and purpose to
that of words. In much the same way that words can produce
knowledge, music can produce emotions in an individual, for both
are languages. This concept brings us to the next question, is
there such a thing as evil music? Many people would say no. Many,
including Christians, claim that all types of music are neutral
and only the lyrics can determine whether a song is morally good
or bad. This is one of the major arguments to support "Christian
rock music." The idea is that any type of music (country western,
classical, jazz, heavy metal, punk rock, new wave, etc.) is
acceptable to God if the lyrics are morally good. Since this is
such a point of controversy, it is apparent that there is
confusion and a lack of understanding in this area among
believers. Therefore, believers must examine this issue in the
light of scripture and the conscience in an attempt to find the
truth. 

The Question of Neutrality in Music

     When examining the relationship and similarities between
music and words, one can gain some insight into the truth of this
controversy. To begin with, most people would agree that there is
such a thing as "evil words." The scriptures describe evil words
with the following adjectives: idle (Matthew 12:36), blasphemous
(Acts 6:11), enticing (Colossians 2:4), vain (Ephesians 5:6),
filthy and foolish (Ephesians 5:4), flattering (1 Thessalonians
2:5), profane (1 Timothy 6:20), etc. On the other hand, the Bible
speaks of good words as being truthful (Acts 26:25), wholesome (1
Timothy 6:3), edifying (Ephesians 4:29), sound (2 Timothy 1:13),
and faithful (Revelation 21:5). It is evident from these passages
that there are good and evil words alike. However, it is
important to understand what actually makes a word good or evil.
The answer can be found in our definition of music.    
     Words are a language that communicate knowledge. Therefore,
one can judge whether a word or a set of words are good or evil
by examining the knowledge they convey. For example, words that
communicate heresies, false doctrines, evil imaginations, and
blasphemies are evil words due to the fact that they convey evil
knowledge and ideas. Profanity and vulgar words are considered
evil because these words have been abused and perverted. These
words are most often used out of context when there are suffi-
cient alternative words to use instead. The point is that words
are evil or good depending on the kind of knowledge they impart.
Words that minister edification, wisdom, truth, sound doctrine,
etc. are considered to be good or wholesome words.
      In much the same way, music can be good or evil depending
on the type of emotions and attitudes it conveys. The word of God
has much to say concerning proper attitudes that an individual
should have before the Lord. For example, in Galatians 5:22,23,
the fruit of the Spirit is listed. This fruit includes the
attitudes of love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, kindness,
faithfulness, meekness, and temperance. These are attitudes and
emotions that the Lord desires us to have. On the other hand, the
works of the flesh are listed in verses 19-21 of the same
passage. Attitudes of hatred, envy, jealousy, strife, anger, and
carousings are produced by the flesh. The scriptures also mention
pride and sensuality as evil attitudes or passions (James
3:14,15). In observing the fruit of the Spirit and the works of
the flesh, it is clear that there are good emotions and evil
emotions. Music has the power and ability to communicate both of
these emotions to an individual.
     The scriptures support the fact that music is not a neutral
force. In 1 Samuel 16:14-23, there is an incredible story
illustrating the tremendous power in music to influence man's
heart attitude. In this passage, we see King Saul being tormented
by an evil spirit. In response to this, Saul's servants sent for
David to play on the harp, attempting to make Saul well again.
The scripture goes on to say that when David played the harp,
Saul was refreshed and the evil spirit departed from him. It is
significant to notice that David did not sing him a song; he
simply played skillfully on the harp. This testifies to the fact
that music is a powerful tool apart from lyrics. It is also
important to understand how the music of David's harp caused the
demon to leave Saul. The answer has to do with the relationship
between music and emotions. 
     David was a man after God's own heart, and the Lord was
with him (Acts 13:22 & 1 Samuel 16:18). David loved the praises
of God. He wrote most of the Psalms and commanded Israel to
worship God with the instruments he had made (2 Chronicles
29:25,26). When David played the harp to Saul, he was ministering
the attitudes of the Holy Spirit that he himself had through his
music, i.e., love, joy, peace, etc. In Psalms 81:2, Asaph
describes the music of the harp as being "pleasant." The Hebrew
word for pleasant means delightful, lovely, or sweet. As a result
of this, Saul began to feel refreshed. Saul was delivered because
his attitude was influenced by the godly emotions conveyed
through David's music. The demon had to depart since he is
opposed to the things of God, especially when the fruit of the
Spirit is present. It is important to notice that the demon did
not leave Saul because of the music per se, but because of the
music's positive effect on Saul's attitude. From this story, one
can safely conclude that music has the capability of driving
demons out of a person by imparting godly attitudes and emotions
to their spirit. Furthermore, music also has the ability to cause
demons to feel welcome, provided that the music is communicating
ungodly attitudes and emotions to an individual.  
                          
Music and Good Emotions

     In several other passages, the Bible portrays the relation-
ship between music and emotions. Music was widely used for
communicating and expressing the emotion of joy (1 Samuel 18:6, 1
Chronicles 15:16, Isaiah 30:29). The scriptures speak about
making a "joyful noise" unto the Lord (Psalms 66:1; 81:1;
95:1,2; 98:4,6; 100:1). Among other things, a joyful noise refers
to music that expresses and communicates the emotions of joy and
gladness of heart. In the story of the prodigal son, music and
dancing were expressions of joy when the boy returned home (Luke
15:25). According to Lamentations 5:14,15, music ceases when
there is no joy. These passages reveal that joy is a primary
emotion conveyed through music. James 5:13 says that if a person
is merry (cheerful), they should sing psalms. The word "psalms"
in the Greek is "psallo", which means to twitch or twang, i.e.,
to play on a stringed instrument; to celebrate and worship with
music and accompanying odes. It is very interesting to notice
that the word "psalms" implies music, and not just singing. It
seems that James is telling the brethren to express themselves to
God through music. Moreover, the instruction in James to sing
psalms is not only an exhortation to express their joyful hearts
to the Lord, but also to minister this joy to the brethren
through music and song. Colossians 3:16 encourages believers to
teach and admonish one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual
songs (see also Ephesians 5:19). 

Music and Evil Emotions

     The Bible also portrays the relationship between music and
negative emotions. In the Old and New Testaments, mourners would
sing and play music as an expression of their grief and sorrow (2
Chronicles 35:25 & Matthew 9:23,24). In Job 30:31, Job says that
his harp turned to mourning and his organ into the voice of
weeping. This is a clear description of how music can minister
the emotions of sadness and depression. At this point, I would
like to suggest that music during Bible days may have been much
different from the music of today. For example, I do not think
that punk rock and heavy metal were present during the reign of
King David. For one thing, these people did not possess the
electronic technology of our day. However, I do believe that
some of the music of that day produced the same emotions that
much of today's music does. 
     In Exodus 32:1-35, we read the story about the children of
Israel making and worshipping the golden calf. If we examine this
story carefully, it may remind us of many of today's parties.
Exodus 32:6 says that Israel sat down to eat, drink, then rose up
to play. The story goes on to say that they danced and sang
around the golden calf (verses 18,19). These verses imply that
music was being played as well. The people were singing, dancing,
drinking, eating, and indulging in sexual immorality while Moses
was on the mountain talking with God. This reminds me of today's
parties. Consider the fact that many of today's parties which
promote fornication and drunkenness rarely are without some form
of music conveying these desires; hence the phrase, "drugs, sex,
and rock n' roll." As a result of Israel's sin, the Lord sent a
plague upon the people (verse 35). It is my impression that the
music which was present when Israel sinned, conveyed the emotions
of lust and sensuality, fitting the mood of their idolatrous
party (1 Corinthians 10:6,7). This story exemplifies how music,
which was made for God's glory, can become perverted and used for
Satan's glory. Satan does not create; he only perverts what God
created.
     In Amos 6:1-7, the prophet sternly rebukes Judah and Israel.
Among the sins of false trust, greed, and spiritual apathy, Amos
reproves them of their revelry and banqueting where they "sing
idol songs to the sound of the viol, invent for themselves
instruments of music, and drink wine from sacrificial bowls."
This is another example in scripture illustrating how ungodly
music, revelry, and drunkenness go hand in hand. It is sig-
nificant that the scriptures speak of revelry and rioting, which
in today's terminology would be called "partying." The New
Testament condemns such activity (1 Peter 4:3, Romans 13:13,
Galatians 5:21). The Greek word for revellings or rioting is
"komos", which literally means a carousal as if letting loose.
Thayer's Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament says that
this word is generally used to describe feasts and drinking-
parties that are protracted till late at night and indulge in
revelry. Music has the power to communicate these types of
emotions. There are certain types of music today as there were in
Bible times that can stir up an individual's flesh, making a
person feel like letting loose and carousing. Hard rock music,
with its variations, is one type of music that is a powerful
force in imparting these emotions.

Hard Rock Music

     At this point, I would like to examine the influence of hard
rock music. For the purpose of clarity, I would like to make a
distinction between hard rock and music that is up-beat or
punchy. For example, most people would probably agree that there
is a distinct difference between the rock n' roll of the mid
1950's and the heavy metal of the 1980's. Yet it is interesting
that both are called "rock music." The difference is not only in
the amount of electronic advancement, but in the emotions that
the music conveys. Hard rock can range from high pulsed energy
beats, distortion and psychedelic sounds, to heavy blues notes in
a minor key. I would like to also point out the fact that most of
this music is played loud; however, volume does not make music
good or evil. The Bible states that the people of God made a
"loud noise" with their instruments unto the Lord (2 Chronicles
30:21, Psalms 33:3, 98:4, 150:5). Hard rock music is ungodly
because of the emotions it communicates. 
     In explaining how hard rock music is ungodly, it will be
profitable to discuss the lyrics of this music in a general
sense. Most acid rock and heavy metal groups glorify the sins of
illicit sexual acts, drug abuse, witchcraft, satanism, and even
suicide in their lyrics. Some groups sing about only a few of
these things, while others sing openly about them all. Further-
more, most punk rock, new wave, and hardcore groups emphasize
rebellion against authority, anarchy, physical abuse, and bodily
perversions. One can look at much of the hard rock literature,
album covers, and group names to confirm that these things are
true. Simply on the basis of the lyrics, it is clear that a vast
majority of these songs promote unrighteousness and are displeas-
ing to God. If a song conveys ideas that are false and encourage
people to indulge in or to make light of sin, then the song is
evil according to God's standard (Ephesians 4:29; 5:4,12; 1
Thessalonians 5:22). In many instances, hard rock music communi-
cates the same attitudes that the lyrics convey; hence, the music
usually fits the words. 
     A good illustration of this concept can be seen through a
movie or a television program. Have you ever noticed what type of
background music was present during a horror scene? In most
cases, the music is eerie. Why is this? It is because the music
is communicating the same emotion as the scene. This is done to
promote fear. Would the horror scene have the same effect if
country western music was being played in the background? 
Probably not. This same concept would apply to most love scenes.
During a love scene, the background music usually communicates a
sensual or romantic emotion. In the same manner, hard rock music
imparts similar attitudes that are expressed in the lyrics.
     Depending on the particular band or song, hard rock music is
very powerful in communicating the attitudes and feelings of
lust, sensuality, rebellion, lasciviousness, carelessness, and
pride. Certain songs have such an influential beat that they can
stir up the desires of a person's flesh, making them feel sensual
and aroused. It is no coincidence that rock music has been linked
with illicit sex and drug abuse. Many of the parties today which
advocate sin have some form of hard rock music present influenc-
ing the mood. Often, this music begins to convey emotions of
pride, causing individuals to draw attention to themselves. They
feel strong, self-confident, and secure in themselves. However,
this is a misplaced security. It is merely the result of the mood
set by the powerful sound of hard rock. God's word tells us that
pride and trusting in oneself is sinful and must be forsaken
(Jeremiah 17:5-7, James 4:6, 1 Peter 5:5,6). We are to have no
confidence in the flesh, but we are to put our trust in the Lord
(Philippians 3:3, 1 Corinthians 1:29,31). Proverbs 3:5 says,
"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine
own understanding." Any music that communicates sinful attitudes
and emotions is ungodly. Hard rock music does not minister to the
spirit of a man. Neither does it help him glorify the Lord as
music was intended to do. On the contrary, hard rock ministers to
man's flesh, promoting the sinful works of the flesh. 
     A person may argue that the same song may produce different
emotions to different individuals. This may be true with some
songs; however, this is not the case most of the time. For
example, in reading a passage from the Bible or any literary work
for that matter, several people may receive different meanings
from it. However, there are some passages that clearly communi-
cate one specific idea leaving no room for separate interpreta-
tions. It is the same way with music. Several people may respond
differently to a certain song; however, there are some songs in
which the music is clearly communicating one emotion. 

Why Rock Music?

     Hard rock music is very popular among the youth of our
society. Rock fans spend a great deal of money and time on
concerts, rock literature, albums, tapes, etc. A vital question
to ask is, what causes multitudes of young adults to be attracted
and attached to this type of music? The obvious answer is because
they like it. So the real question becomes, why do they like it?
The answer is found in understanding the emotions conveyed
through rock music.
     Although some claim to enjoy hard rock based on musical
appreciation, most people like it because of how it makes them
feel. Again, the underlying reason has to do with the emotions
conveyed. Many people have become dependent on this music. Hard
rock has such a dynamic ability to provide an emotional outlet,
that it actually becomes addictive to some degree. I have
observed many Christians in the past who desired to follow the
Lord, yet could not whole-heartedly because they refused to part
with their music. The attachment can become so great, that people
begin to worship the music as if it were a god, and they fall
into idolatry. In essence, they love their music more than they
love God.  

Personal Observation

     I stated earlier that there is a vast difference between
criticizing something based on personal taste and judging
something based on the knowledge of the truth. This is sig-
nificant because I have never disliked the sound of rock music. I
listened to rock music for over 12 years. I began with listening
to The Beatles at an early age. In 1979, I was introduced to hard
rock, primarily British rhythm and blues from the late 60's early
70's. I idolized such bands as Led Zeppelin, The Who, The Doors,
Jimi Hendrix, and others. In 1981, I joined a high school rock
band. We performed much of the music that I have just listed. In
1982, the Lord began to reveal to me the effect that this music
was having on me, and that He demanded preeminence in my heart.
God said that He will not have any other gods before Him (Exodus
20:3). The scriptures also encourage us not to be in bondage to
anything (1 Corinthians 6:12 & 2 Peter 2:19). I acknowledged the
fact that I was wasting time and money on this music. Rock music
did not help my faith in Christ, but hampered it subtly. Both the
music, and the attachment I had to it greatly hindered my growth
as a believer.
     As I look back now, I am able to see why I spent so many
hours listening to this music. It was merely because of the
feelings of self-confidence, pride, and power that it imparted to
me. It also served as an outlet to release feelings of frustra-
tion and hurt. The music would give me a sense of false security
that would relieve any insecurities I had as a young adult. I had
become dependent on music rather than on the Lord Jesus Christ
alone. 

Christian Rock Music

     This brings us to the present day controversy over "Chris-
tian rock." When speaking about Christian rock, I am not
referring to all up-beat gospel tunes. I am specifically
referring to hard rock, as defined previously, that is put to
"Christian lyrics." There are basically two schools of thought
concerning this issue. One group of individuals feel that all
music is neutral, therefore; Christian rock is an appropriate way
of worshipping God.  Those who hold to the other school of
thought feel that all rock n' roll music is evil and satanic and
that Christian rock is no exception to this.  
     Those who hold to the first view claim that all types of
music are neutral and that only the lyrics determine the nature
of a song. They also suggest that Christian hard rock music is an
evangelistic tool designed to attract young unbelievers. The idea
is that through the lyrics or the message given at a Christian
rock concert, many of these young people will hear and hopefully
believe the gospel. Essentially, the primary purpose of this
music is to reach a group of people that have never set foot in a
church, yet love rock n' roll. 
     The second school of thought deals with the concept that
music is not neutral. Furthermore, these individuals claim that
Christian rock is evil because of the nature of rock music
itself. They believe that rock music is evil because of its
negative history and association with such things as the drug
culture, the sex revolution, the hippie movement, and the obscene
lifestyles promoted by many rock musicians. In summary, the
second school of thought states that due to the defiling element
of rock music, Christian rock is ungodly and revolting. Moreover,
many of these individuals have a personal distaste for rock music
as well. 
     Many believers avoid issues of controversy and disagreement
for fear of causing division. However, the scripture says, "there
must be also heresies (differences) among you, that they which
are approved may be manifest among you" (1 Corinthians 11:19).
In another place the word states, "prove (test) all things; hold
fast to that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil"
(1 Thessalonians 5:21-22). In order to discern what is good or
evil, one must prove or test it first. We who are of the truth
should not ignore this controversy. In judging Christian rock, we
will look at the following three elements: the lyrics, the music,
and the fruit.
     When examining the lyrics of Christian rock music, most
Christian performers and groups speak about good things. They
usually speak about the truth of God's word, the power of the
Holy Spirit, and the salvation that is available through the
Lord Jesus Christ. Some of the lyrics speak about the Christian
walk and spiritual warfare. Many glorify the name of Jesus Christ
as well. Since the knowledge that is communicated through the
words is usually good, then it would follow that the lyrics are
usually good as well. The only difference between a Christian
rock song and a secular rock song is the lyrics, the music is no
different. This is confirmed by the fact that many contemporary
Christian performers have borrowed the tunes of popular secular
songs and have put Christian lyrics to them.      
      Music can be good or evil depending on the emotions it
conveys. Hard rock music communicates the emotions of sensuality,
pride, lasciviousness, etc. Therefore, since Christian rock music
is the same as secular rock music, these same emotions are
conveyed through the music. In Christian rock, both the clean and
the unclean are present. The lyrics are communicating righteous-
ness, but the music is communicating unrighteousness. The Bible
describes such a mixture as impure and unholy. The scriptures
condemn mixing the clean with the unclean (Galatians 5:9; 1
Corinthians 5:6,7; Leviticus 10:10). In the Old Testament, the
mixed multitude among Israel typified the worldly element in the
church (Exodus 12:38, Numbers 11:4, 1 Corinthians 10:1-6). Israel
finally separated herself from these people (Nehemiah 13:3). 1
Peter 1:15,16 commands us to be holy. The Greek word for holy is
"hagios", which means separated from sin and consecrated to God.
"Hagios" comes from the root word which is translated "pure."
Pure means free from defilement, not contaminated; hence, not
mixed. If something is pure and holy, there is no spot, blemish,
wrinkle, or mixture in it (Ephesians 5:27). When listening to
Christian rock, one can sense a spirit of mixture in his inner
man. The words are saying something good, but the music is saying
something totally different. Again, I am speaking in general
terms and am referring only to Christian "hard rock." Neither am
I implying that every song that a Christian rock group sings
conveys evil emotions. A few songs may convey good emotions,
however; the music in these songs is distinguishable from hard
rock.                    
     One way to determine the effectiveness of a ministry is to
examine its fruit. Jesus told his disciples to beware of false
prophets (Matthew 7:15). He told them that the way to recognize
the true from the false was to examine their fruit (Matthew 7:16-
20). This is a principle that can be applied today. It has been
said that Christian rock has been effective in reaching the lost
for the Lord. I do not doubt that there are those who experienced
genuine salvation through the influence of a Christian rock
musician. However, this does not justify the music. For example,
I am sure that if someone held a "Christian" concert while
distributing free beer and marijuana to those who attended, many
people would come and listen to the music and the message. This
is an extreme example; however, it does reveal how a method can
be bad even if it attracts many people to hear the gospel
message. In using the same illustration, what kind of fruit would
come out of a ministry where drugs and alcohol were passed out?
Perhaps there would be some decisions for the Lord, but what type
of Christians would these individuals be?  
     Although Christian rock may be effective in bringing many
people to hear the gospel message, this in itself does not make
it right. Just as Christian rock has the ability to lead people
to the Lord by its words, it also has the potential of leading
people back into the world through its image and the attitudes
conveyed through its music. A significant question is, what type
of Christians does this sort of ministry produce? Does Christian
hard rock produce godly righteous individuals who are separated
from sin and the world? On the contrary, this music has con-
tributed to some of the worldliness and carnality that has crept
into the church today. This worldliness and carnality has not
only been promoted by the music, but also by the example that is
set by most Christian rock performers.  
     Before we examine the example given by these individuals, I
would like to point out that this discussion is not an attempt to
judge the motives of Christian rock musicians. We are merely
examining the music and not the heart of the musician. Many
Christian rockers have good motives. With some exceptions, these
musicians have a desire to see souls saved. However, it is
important to realize that just because a person's motives are
good, does not mean that what he does is necessarily right. For
example, there are many individuals today that are teaching false
doctrines. Not all of them have evil motives. These individuals
are simply deceived on certain issues. The Apostle Paul is
another example of this. Before his conversion, Paul thought that
he was pleasing God by killing Christians. After his conversion,
he said that he persecuted the church as an expression of his
zeal for God (Philippians 3:6). His motive was good, yet he was
in error for the Lord Jesus rebuked him for this (Acts 9:4,5).
Therefore, good motives do not always justify a person's actions.
     The example and image that is being set by many Christian
rock performers is fleshly. For instance, 1 Corinthians 11:14
clearly states that nature teaches us that it is a shame for a
man to have long hair. 1 Timothy 2:9,10 and 1 Peter 3:3,4
emphasize modesty and sobriety in women's clothing and adornment.
In Deuteronomy 22:5, God says it is an abomination for the sexes
to dress alike. 1 Corinthians 6:9 says that those who are
effeminate will not inherit God's kingdom. Many believers today
ignore these passages based on the idea that God looks on the
heart and not on the outward appearance. They presume, therefore;
that the outward appearance is not important. What they do not
realize is that God gives us these commands because the outward
appearance and dress of a person reflect their heart attitude.
This is the exact meaning of 1 Corinthians 11:14. A man's
conscience (the natural law) will testify and bear witness with
the fact that his hair should be short. In similar fashion, a
person's clothing can reveal if they are heeding the dictates of
their conscience. The fact is that if someone is violating God's
word through their outward appearance, then their heart is not
right. However, many people use 1 Samuel 16:7, which says, "the
Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward
appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart", to justify their
ungodly appearance. This scripture is often taken out of context
and misapplied. In this passage, Samuel thought Eliab was
anointed by God because of his exceptional features, but God had
refused him. Another example of this is that of the Pharisees.
Jesus said to them, "ye also appear righteous unto men, but
within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity" (Matthew 23:28).
The lesson that these verses teach us is that just because a
person looks good on the outside, does not mean he is good on the
inside. However, if a person is bad on the outside according to
the word of God, his heart is not right on the inside.
     It is not my intention to preach condemnation and the law.
Neither am I advocating a set of rules for people to follow, for
this will only put people into bondage. My intention is to bring
out the truth from the word of God, for the truth is what will
set people free. Many of these Christian rock musicians are
setting an example that is contrary to scripture and to the
conscience of man. As a result, many young believers feel
justified in wearing bizarre clothing and hair styles. Such
things only draw attention to themselves. The Bible tells us not
to follow a multitude to do evil; neither to compare ourselves
with others in an attempt to justify our actions (Exodus 23:2 & 2
Corinthians 10:12). A final observation in discussing this issue
is to ask the question, if Christian rock music is primarily
designed to reach the lost, then why do so many believers listen
to it? Why does this music appeal to unsaved youth in the first
place? The answer to both these questions is that hard rock music
can produce good feelings to an individual by communicating
emotions to their flesh.        
     Many believe that Christians should change their image to
relate to people in the world. They argue that even Jesus did
this when he ate with sinners, and the Apostle Paul likewise said
that he became all things to all men that he might win some to
the gospel. Although there is some truth to this suggestion, it
can be taken to the extreme. The danger is in becoming too much
like the world. For example, Jesus ate with sinners for the
purpose of saving them, yet at the same time the scripture says
that He was separate from them (Hebrews 7:26). When Jesus
related to sinners, He never lowered God's standard. The gospel
message is one of separation from the world (James 1:27; 4:4; 2
Corinthians 6:14-7:1; 1 John 2:15-17). Paul makes it very clear
in Romans 12:2 that believers should not be conformed to the
image of this world. The word "conformed" means to render like or
to imitate. This is one of the dangers in Christian rock. Their
image and example is unscriptural, as well as the emotions
communicated through their music. Paul told Timothy to be an
example in speech, conduct, faith, love and purity (the absence
of mixture). I do not say these things to condemn people.
Rather, I say these things out of concern for what is happening
in the church today. Christians need to be more discerning today
than ever before. The world is creeping into the church and the
body of Christ must be purged.
     
The Conscience Question

     In dealing with issues where the Bible seems to be silent
on, Christians must learn how to find the truth through other
avenues. One avenue is through the conscience. There is very
little taught today regarding the conscience. Our conscience,
which is a part of our spirit or heart, is extremely helpful in
discerning right from wrong. 
     I was initially led by my conscience concerning the things
mentioned in this discussion of music, and the scriptures
confirmed many of these things. Christians must learn that their
conscience was designed to be an inward monitor that approves or
disapproves their actions (Romans 2:15 & 1 John 3:20,21). The
conscience bears witness to the truth (Romans 9:1, 2 Corinthians
1:12, 1 Timothy 1:5). The Apostles lived by the dictates of their
conscience and taught others to live in all good conscience as
well (Acts 24:16, 1 Timothy 1:19, 3:9, 2 Timothy 1:3, Hebrews
13:18, 1 Peter 3:16). It is dangerous to ignore one's own
conscience. Some people confuse their conscience with their
thoughts or emotions. They tend to rationalize their actions
through logic and reason and confuse this for the voice of
conscience. Others go so far as refusing to obey their conscience
for a long time. In this case, their conscience may not function
properly. The Bible describes a person in this state as having a
seared conscience and a reprobate mind (1 Timothy 4:2 & Titus
1:15,16). When a person is in this condition, they no longer can
distinguish between good or evil. 

     
Guidelines for Judging Music and Songs

     In conclusion, I would like to establish some guidelines for
judging music and songs. An aspect that we have not discussed is
the lifestyle of the musician. Since all of us are accountable to
God for how we use our finances, it is wise to be a good steward
and to support righteous causes. Believer's need to use wisdom
and righteous judgment when giving to a ministry or individual.
The following are steps to judging music:

1. Examine the lyrics:   What kind of knowledge and ideas do the
                         words convey? Does the message of the
                         song minister edification? Do the words
                         promote and encourage righteousness or
                         sin, truth or error?                    
                                                               
2. Examine the music:    What type of emotions does the music
                         communicate? Are these emotions godly
                         according to the word of God? Does the
                         music minister to the spirit facilitat-
                         ing worship and edification, or does it
                         minister to the flesh?   
      
3. Examine the fruit:    What kind of an example and image do the
                         musicians set? Is their image and
                         example in accordance with the word of
                         God? What kind of fruit do the musicians
                         bear? Are their followers holy and
                         separate individuals, or are they
                         worldly and carnal?                    
                               
     In summary, we have seen that music was created for the
purpose of glorifying God. Music does this through altering man's
attitude, helping him express himself to God and to become
sensitive to Him. We defined music as a language that communi-
cates emotions just as words communicate knowledge. Music can
convey godly or ungodly emotions; therefore, music is not
neutral as many assume. Finally, hard rock music, including
Christian rock, communicates sinful attitudes and emotions which
can defile a person. Believers must become knowledgeable in this
area and make the decision to do "all things for the glory of
God." 






          





                              MUSIC


















                         Frank A. Viola
                       5721 Ridgestone Dr.
                         Tampa, FL 33625

                         April 23, 1987