Contemporary Vs. Traditional Music

Q. My question is in regards to contemporary Christian music.  It seems that there is a certain type of people (Christians) that condemn this type of ministry of music as satanic and deceiving.  I love the Lord and have responded to the call to this ministry. I have seen and felt the spirit of God flow through our congregation during worship. 

I respect the individual tastes and preferences of his saints. But it seems like there are more and more people making blanket condemnations about this type of ministry. What is your take on this issue?

A. Although I think traditional hymns have more theological depth, I prefer contemporary worship. I think it can create a greater sense of intimacy and I know it helps me get into a proper frame of mind to pray or hear the Word. I confess I am not fond of most Christian pop music. To me it’s just like secular music with a thin coat of “Christianity” plastered over it.

There’s obviously nothing in the Bible that says Christian music has to be stuck in the 19th Century. Remember, when those hymns were first written they were contemporary music just like the Psalms were when David first sang them. The only qualification should be whether it draws the worshipers closer to the Lord.