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

Friday, November 17, 2017

CCM Changes the Gospel


Though the acceptance of popular culture (and in the case of music, pop music) within the Christian church is now an established fact, its very normality across the face of virtually every variety of Christian theological persuasion is telling.  In a climate of extreme multiculturalism, pluralism, and relativism satiated with the notion that music is value-neutral and worldview-free, church music has been cut off from history, tradition, theology, aesthetic norms, and ultimately the Word.  The result has been a breakdown of church music standards along with a collateral weakening in other areas of life as well.  The problem with Christian pop music is that pop changes the gospel!  The musical medium remakes the message into a reflection of pop’s own music.

Calvin M. Johansson, Evangel University.  Forward to “Measuring the Music: Another look at the Contemporary Christian Music Debate,” by John Makujina

2 comments:

Crystal's Ministry Updates said...

just as there are good and bad hymns there are also good and bad CCCM songs. Have to admit I don't totally agree here. true there are a lot of problems and issues with CCM, but that is like anything else and God can and still does use it.

Glenn E. Chatfield said...

The particular type of CCM discussed in this citation is that of the "pop" variety, and I have yet to find an example of that which is any good.