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MUSIC  MINISTRIES

Performers who use their talents to write words and music that glorify God hold a special place in my heart. If you've read my testimony, you know that it was because of the stirring words sung by Jessy Dixon that my heart was opened to the Holy Spirit. I've always enjoyed music, but now I've found that God's message can be spread in a way that moves me more than any words ever spoken by a preacher in a pulpit. These singers and songwriters have been truly blessed and carry their ministries to millions of people around the world.      Unfortunately, there are many Christians out there who think that the new Christian music isn't acceptable for use in our faith or our churches. On a Christian radio talk-show, I actually heard a Lutheran minister state that there isn't room for the new styles of music in church. He went on to say that we should stick with the old standards because they show greater praise and honor.      I know that the Christian music performers can defend their own positions but I feel that I need to have my say. The old ways aren't always the best ways. I ask those visitors who would agree with this minister - How can you down-play the fact that the "new stuff" has brought countless numbers of people to Christ? Of course, I would never condone or support performers that don't dress appropriately (I've seen "Christian" artists singing in a rock style while wearing basically nothing) or those that don't live their life according to the words they sing. The Holy Spirit reaches out to each person in a different and personal way. If that way happens to be through a young Christian performer rapping about the crucifixion, then that's God's way and we'd be sinning to put a stop to even one person being saved by that style of music. And, if it works on the street and in huge arenas, why won't it work in the church?      Now I'd like to share some of the styles of music that have been used through time to spread God's message.      Psalms: The most commonly used style of the early years of this country. A psalm is exactly what it sounds like, the words from the Book of Psalms set to music. The reason these poems were used was because the Bible tells us to "make a joyful noise" and that David himself danced and sang praises to his Lord.      Hymns: The style that's one step above a psalm. Hymns are generally stories or messages from the Bible put into the songwriters own words that reflect their personal beliefs and feelings. This style is both praise and honor. But as with all of the other styles, it goes beyond the actual words in the Bible.      Bluegrass: This style of music began with the people of the southern states of the U.S. It reflects the heart and soul of that area no matter what the theme of the song. The words tell of the life of the common man and is used as a way to celebrate life. Often, the people had no access to the hymnals of the day. There was no better way for them to praise their Lord than in the only musical style available. As with all other styles, when they sing about God, they believe every word they sing and feel him in the depth of their soul.      Folk: Folk music is very similar to bluegrass. The main difference is the instrumentation. While bluegrass often utilizes fiddles, banjoes, etc., a folk singer is most often accompanied by a lone guitarist. Christian folk singers most often put music to their testimony or write about how God is working in their lives. Contrary to those who think only the hymns should be sung in church, a lot of the songs sung in Protestant churches are more likely to be in the form of folk music than hymns or psalms. Just because they're played on an organ instead of a guitar doesn't change the fact that it's a different style of music.      The four styles of music just discussed are all currently being used in churches all around our country. However, there are so many styles of music that are being completely ignored because they're outside of the mainstream of Christianity. The performers, both old and young, who have been led to use their talents to build a ministry and lead others to Christ have realized that the way to reach people is to grab them at a level they understand.      Country, pop, and soft rock are now used by many more singers than ever before. And, at long last, other styles are making their way onto the Christian scene, although they are more focused toward today's youth. Christian rap has become popular among the teens. Yes, Christian rap. It's better to hear them sing God's praises in this form than to hear them sing about drugs and gang wars. Hard rock and heavy-metal are now reaching kids that won't listen to any other style of music.      As I write this, I'm listening to Charlie Daniels sing Amazing Grace with a southern rock flair. There's absolutely nothing wrong here. Mr. Daniels is expressing his love for his Lord in a way that's acceptable to them both. There's a message to be spread and that's what he does through the words of the song but in a style that may only reach a limited audience. Without utilizing a southern rock style, there may be someone out there who wouldn't otherwise hear the glorious words.      It's true that music touches a person's soul. The message of God's amazing mercy and grace is one that should also touch that person's soul. When you combine the message and the music, you create a powerful tool for reaching countless numbers of people. That's what a music ministry is all about. If you're one of those people who feel that you don't feel right sitting in a church, take the time to attend a Christian concert near your home. It doesn't have to be a concert given by a big name or even a professional. The word and love of God is available in the form of music and song.