We who preach the gospel must not think of ourselves as public relations agents sent to establish good will between Christ and the world. We must not imagine ourselves commissioned to make Christ acceptable to big business, the press, the world of sports or modern education. We are not diplomats but prophets, and our message is not a compromise but an ultimatum. A.W. Tozer
Therefore let God-inspired Scripture decide between us; and on whichever side be found doctrines in harmony with the word of God, in favor of that side will be cast the vote of truth. --Basil of Caesarea
Once you learn to discern, there's no going back. You will begin to spot the lie everywhere it appears.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service. 1 Timothy 1:12

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

"Sweet Jesus"?!?


Is it just me, or do other men have a problem calling Jesus, “Sweet”?  

This is one of the songs we sang this week which, between the lyrics and the tune, seemed to be one of those “Jesus is my boyfriend” songs.


Sweet Jesus, my Savior, You are my faithful friend
You made me, You know me, You've seen my every sin
My soul is amazed 
By the gift of your grace
And the arms that take me in
Sweet Jesus, my Savior, You are my faithful friend

Sweet Jesus, my shelter, you are my faithful friend
The refuge I run to when the world comes closing in
Why should I be afraid
When I know I am saved
By the arms that take me in
Sweet Jesus, my shelter, You are my faithful friend

Sweet Jesus, my Shepherd, You are my faithful friend
You hold me, You lead me, I'll follow to the end
And once more I will say
On that beautiful day
When Your arms take me in
Sweet Jesus, my Shepherd, you are my faithful friend

Sweet Jesus, my Savior, You are my faithful friend


I guess it’s okay for a personal devotional song but, again, I must ask, “Is this the sort of song which should be part of corporate worship?”

As a man I find it really difficult to say “Sweet Jesus,” so I wonder how many other men would feel this way.  It’s the sort of appellation a woman would use towards guys.  So maybe it’s just me.  I know this sort of thing can be very subjective, but I just don’t see this as either a praise or worship song.  

Comments? Thoughts?

4 comments:

Steve Bricker said...

I can get past "sweet" if taken by itself, but when that is coupled with the language of intimate embrace, it goes too far.

Drew said...

Honestly, I pretty much think we should only sing songs that are based specifically on songs or at least on Bible verses. That song isn't horrible, but it pretty much fails my test.

Anonymous said...

Here's a thought when thinking about Christian music.
Think about the idea that many people have that their relationship with God is based on feelings. It's easy for this view to become part of our thinking even if we would disagree with with the concept. Truly emotions of worship and joy should come from KNOWING WHO GOD IS, from His Word, not us knowing who God is through supposed experiences with Him.
I kinda feel the same about music. Rather then trying to "worship" God through the emotions produced by "moving" music, I find much more worth from being moved by truth found in the lyrics.
-SD

Jon Gleason said...

Sweet lowly Jesus, Immanuel,
Coming from Heaven God's Truth Thou didst tell;
Born in a manger, Oh! lowly birth,
Incarnate God Thou hast visited earth.
Come from on high, come here to die,
Oh bless-ed Child, Thou most holy and mild;
Holy Lord Jesus, pure, undefiled,
Great Son of God, make me Thy tender child.

We put that one in our hymnbook. The one you gave would have never made the cut. :)