1. Does it glorify God? 2. Is it beneficial? 3. Will it cause my brother to stumble? The 3 qualifications of Christian liberty

I've heard some Christian songs that were worse than "secular" music. Some non Christian songs are more pure and about real life. We just need to be careful what we listen to period. Cuz it may be labelled as Christian but doesn't mean it truly glorifies god. Just be careful guys. Use the Holy Spirit to guide you in what is right. Listen to his genuine message. He's not saying secular is okay. He's saying if it's pure and good and does not cause you to stumble then it is okay because nothing is about the cover it's what's on the inside that matters. Keep it real

Every music effects your soul if the music your listening to does not bring you close to God you should not listen it if you listen to music that makes your flesh happy you need to leave it. The bible says we should not follow the world or we should not be like people of the world. Music in the spirit realm if it does not glorify Jesus it opens doors to demons

I almost hate calling myself a 'Christian' reading these comments. Learn to respect someone's opinion. He doesn't have to be right, it's an opinion for a reason. I agree with him. I believe calling anything 'secular' in general is ridiculous. It's almost like saying you're better than a secular person, or secular things. I don't like that, and don't think it's right. Some people are so closed minded. Quit being spoon fed by church, and actually look for answers yourself. Have an open mind and question things, it's actually a good thing. But most importantly, respect someone's opinion. You don't have to agree, but at least don't post hateful things. It's absolutely hypocritical.

God would rather hear music that is poorly produced, and performed by a true worshipful heart than a bunch of polished/perfect music that is more about impressing the masses. God looks at the heart, and not the exterior. That applies to music, worship, etc... Im a former professional musician who's heart God has totally changed in regard to music. This isn't something I would've said a few years back.

I find it very interesting that other Christians are leaving comments filled with HATE towards him. Even if you struggle with the message, are you correcting and teaching the truth in love and reflecting Christ's character, or are you show-casing self-righteousness in your 'holy' anger. The question is, do you understand the message? Or are you fueled only by what you chose as righteous? As Christians, you need to be united and even when you disagree, let not your tongue cause you to stumble because he is after all God's Child and you will have to contend with God when you speak carelessly against his own. Would you treat your own flesh and blood the same way if you disagreed?

Most secular music in our times and past are influenced by the enemy himself. Music was Lucifer's gift in heaven, and he does still very much use that gift here. When you listen to that garbage, the mind does observe what you listen to and you are influenced by that music whether you realize it or not. I only recently stopped listening to that trash and have no desire to return back to listening to it. My thought process has changed.

Don't bash electronic music and rock. There are many artists out there who use it for the glory of God. No intrument or style is superior on its own merit, it's how you use it.

I use to struggle with this before. I understand what he is saying. A song doesn't need to have the word Jesus to glorify Him. It's like me saying that I have to work for a company that proclaims that they are Christians only. Anyone can claim to be a Christian but if they do not have fruit of the Holy Spirit which is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control will not inherit the kingdom of God. Your actions alone can glorify the one true God above without saying the word Jesus. This has happened to be before. They came to me and said there was something different about me. Then I proclaimed I was a Christian. But never forget to give thanks and glory to God in the name of Jesus.

The Bible says "you cannot serve two masters".Many secular artists sell their souls because they want to be successful, have fame ,etc. Yet you state that only as long as secular song lyrics state "true, uplifting" things will it make it okay. But how? Lady gaga has openly said she worships the devil. But one of her songs talks about being true to who you are, being brave, fearless, etc. Those are true, positive words right? But, if behind the song is an artist who sings it to glorify someone else beside our Heavenly Father, how is that okay? Michael jackson songs are created by him, not one song is holy and the other isn't, It was created by a man who serves another master. The bible says "you will know them by their fruit" what of michael jackson's (or any other secular artist for that matter) fruit is/was glorifying God. So if they aren't glorifying God, who then are they glorifying? It's kinda like saying pizza is good for me because it has tomatoe sauce, and tomatoe can provide vitamins but in reality all the grease and other junk make it so bad. Yes, their might be positive lyrics in some secular music, but the core of it is actually rotten. God Bless.

Are you a friend of the world or of God? If you become a friend with the world you are an enemy of God.

"Jesus has a monopoly on truth." I love that.

Amen! Music can be such an awe inspiring medium, and invoke such beautiful feelings, you can't help but praise God for the gift.

You guys need to chill. He is saying you have to discern what song you are listening to. So he found the truth in that Song that changes start with ourselves. You can't expect the church to grow unless you are trying to grow yourself and push the church forward. He is not saying listen to anything. He is saying discern the message and if God can be shown through it somehow.

How can you minister to the world if you think everything in the world is completely sinful and disgusting. When you believe listening to any music that doesn't glorify Jesus as dirty I am thinking why on earth would a non.Christian respect you or confide in you at all. Do not be of the world. But do not reject the world. How can you reach non believers from the pedastal you stand apon?

I see you're point in the end about whether music is good or excellent, but let me tell you this. I've had countless experiences where I'd listen to secular songs and the spirits of those songs took total control over my mind. It drew a dark cloud over my life and knocked me off the path of righteousness. Music that explicitly talks about drugs, sex, and "rock and roll" contain evil spirits that can influence your mind and lead you to make bad decisions. The enemy can take the simplest things and turn it into a gateway of destruction; which is why the bible tells us to guard our hearts. Once I stopped listening to explicit music, I finally saw a huge shift in my life.

God said: do not worship me as they worshiped their gods. Michael Jackson worshiped his god with that music. I would associate God and M. J. Music together. You can't take a pagan practice and make it Christian that's what like saying lets have a Christian Halloween.

Jefferson, I see your point. Been Christian is not about rules, living with the Holy Spirit is much more then that. God is not looking for the exterior, but He is looking into our hearts. I think that the opposite is also true, there are christian songs that are not focused in God, so we shouldn't be listening. Having the christian stamp doesn't mean it is good and having the secular stamp doesn't mean that is bad. But the reflection is, by listening to this song do I get closer to God? Does my thirsty for His presence grows?

Just because someone is doing something with excellence, it's glorifying God? So we can sin excellently and Glorify God because we're the best at it? Aight.

The Word of God is not picky about who shares Him or where! The strongest Christian I personally know said he first became aware of his need for the Grace through Christ while he was listening to "Highway to Hell by AC/DC!

Not one biblical reference to back up what he said. We cannot answer questions without referring back to the bible the best way we can. " I believe " won't cut it. It's what the word of God says “For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].” ‭‭Philippians‬ ‭4:8‬ ‭AMP‬‬ we need to be careful to what are minds are exposed to.

The point isn't is it "bad" or "good" Lucifer was kicked out of heaven because he was prideful and wanted to be praised. When we sing to something/one else rather than God we are praising that. I've listened to secular music and Christian music. When I listen to secular music, it makes me feel prideful, better than other people or complete opposite like sad, and depressed. I've always said if it feels wrong then it is wrong. It is all about your conviction and that is what will lead you to YOUR right or wrong. One thing is for sure the word of God does not lie. You can read that Lucifer was kicked out of heaven for being prideful, he was rebellious. Too often "secular music" makes people rebellious towards the things of God. I speak of personal experience that when I listen to secular music, I get spiritually weak and then start to desire to do things I shouldn't. Music will influence your life. You don't have to agree with me, like I said I speak for myself. God Bless.

Wisdom and balance right here

Seeing as "secular" music is anything separate from religion I'd say look deeper into the message behind each track. Some of it is clearly dark and evil in theme. But, in contrast you have plenty other tracks that have a much more positive message that's either uplifting or encouraging. A lot of it also carries profound social messages that need to be heard more because of many artists out here strive to tell the truth about what's really going on in our world. The very idea of secular music being "evil" is just silly and close-minded when you really consider this dynamic. Especially since plenty of these "secular" artists are known Christians, anyway.

As a musician who follows the Lord, this answered a lot of questions that I've been confused about for a while. Thank you so much!!

This guy is finding justifications on being able to enjoy his music. Its simple. Either your cold or hot, but please dont be a lukewarm Christian!

Listened to the audio. Just thought I would point out five things. 1. The vessel of worship matters. Amos 5:22-23 "Even though you offer up to Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings, I will not accept them; And I will not even look at the peace offerings of your fatlings."Take away from Me the noise of your songs; I will not even listen to the sound of your harps. 2. Music is not neutral as Bethke puts it. Music is spiritual (1 Samuel 16:23, 2 Kings 3:15, 2 Chronicles 20:21). And the spirit world is clearly demarcated as secular and sacred. 3. We are a peculiar people (set apart for Christ) Romans 14:23 states "...anything that is not done in faith is sin." (Romans 14 talks about liberties. Our liberties should not cause younger believers to stumble) I like what one person in the comments said: The 3 qualifications of Christian liberty are a. Does it glorify God? b. Is it beneficial? c. Will it cause my brother to stumble? 4. Bethke is a great teacher that I admire and I pray he continues to fan his gift to help others. However, this particular gift of teaching comes with a warning from scripture. James 3:1 "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." 5. May we be be united in Christ Jesus ultimately. To obey the Holy Spirit deposited in us until the day of his return.

Wow, this is VERY disturbing! It was TRUE when the demon possessed man said to Jesus, "I know who you are, The Holy one of God " Mark 1:24-25 yet Jesus told him to "BE QUIET". Listen, Jesus is NOT in league with satan and demons and those who deny Him in Spirit and in Truth. So whether it's beautiful or not, we listen to music that flows from the lips of the one who is FULLY committed to the Lord in Spirit and InTruth dead to this world. The bible says not to be UNEQUALLY yoked right? Now if the unsaved person who denies Christ happen to be beautiful, talented, and smart, do those qualities annul the verse in 2 Corinthians 6:14? May it NEVER be. Do not open yourself to deception, be discerning, I say this in love and great concern, repent.

Music is for everyone and transcends beyond all cultures...just like God.

I'm a christian and I listen to Metallica, Asking Alexandria, and other rock bands but don't mean I worship the devil and kill sheep! Open your mind people

I really don't understand all these hate comments people are posting. I think what Jeff said is true and I agree with it. In EVERTYHING we do, we should glorify God. So how is it not a good thing if he listen to Michael Jackson's Black or white song for example? they're good lyrics and talk about good things happening in that song. God bless y'all

You are completely wrong about your assertion that secular and sacred is a Greek invention. The reality of sacred and secular comes from God. Have you forgotten what the word HOLINESS is? It is the basis of the Christian's understanding of secular and sacred. And now you are INVENTING SIN. Cheesy equals sin? You are completely wrong! The Spirit leads you to GODLINESS (sacred) and away from ungodliness (SECULAR).

Sorry bro, you are wrong and should not be pushing your false beliefs on people. If you truly obtained the holy spirit, you would know secular music is bad. 99.9% of all popular hits are evil based. Sex, greed, lust, infidelity, ect can be found as the topic. While we as believers in Christ have gospel/praise music that topics love, peace, faithfulness, kindness, ect.You could be singing praises to Lucifer, blinded by creations of the sinful man. It is up to us to pray and ask for advice. With the Holy Spirit you will know good from bad. To obtain it, you must have pure of heart. p.s as much as it may hurt you to know... Michael Jackson was a false idol. It would be wise to avoid his music. Billie Jean? C mon bro... If it isn't holy, it isn't good for your spirit.

Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

He's right. Platonism is a huge problem in Christianity today. Plato taught that the physical is corrupt and evil and the spiritual is pure and good. Christians bought into that thinking a long long time ago, but it is very clear that the authors of scripture did not believe that dichotomy. God created everything and called it "good." God is interested in the physical and the spiritual because they are inseparable.

Preach it bro! you have an amazing way with words! Jesus hung out with those who were in sin, He didn't draw lines between them and Him, He loved on them!

It seems you have been deceived and are now joining the ranks of the false teachers. Slow down and ask the Lord for wisdom, because you are going to be held accountable for what you are teaching...

no no no God is HOLY you can not put HOLY and UNHOLY together the Holy spirit guides us to know it is wrong no secular music glorifys GOD none it is of the enemy

I don't understand this guy. "If its good art and art speaks for its self". What?! And who's standard of "good" is he using anyway. The fact of the matter is if it doesn't edify your spirit or bring Glory to God then why are you really listening to it? Maybe to fufill the lust of the flesh? Yeah that seems to be what it is. Everything that is good is from God and should be used to build us up in the spirit or to glorfiy God. Music is only good when it does one of those two things, that goes for food, sex ,speach and every other thing that God as blessed us with. It should never be all about us and our own passions. What edifies us ,Glorifies God and whatever does not is not good. Its not hard to understand, but if you are still trying to justify your actions through the flesh ,then expect to jump through some hoops to do so.

This is not good.

~ ( 1 John 2:15 ) ~ Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

Well put. Never thought of it that way. Thank you for this!

I am with Jefferson on this topic. I am a musician myself. My view of music is what message is this person singing about? Is what their singing about a truth that the scriptures condone and promote. I do agree if the artist is glorifying premarital sex, drugs, & violence then you do not need to be listening to it. If you claim to be a Christian. But if the song advocates changing the world for the better, livelihood, and love in a non-sinful way, then it is not a sin to hear it or sing it. This whole narrative that legalistic Christians give that a message of truth can only come from saved people is a lie. Just like he said in the video the truth of God can be spoken through anyone. It's not always Christians. Too many times we as Christians claim our truths to be the only truths which is also lie to a certain extent. Just like I can be uplifted and encouraged to worship God when I hear Michael W. Smith's Place In This World and Here I Am To Worship Rich Mullins Our God Is Awesome God and Donnie McClurkin's Stand. I can also be uplifted and encouraged when I hear Bill Withers's Lean On Me, and James Taylor's You Got a Friend. Why? Because those songs embrace friendship, brotherhood, and love. Those are principles that the scriptures teach us to live by too. If the artist is secular and the song they are singing about is a principle the scriptures condone we should not just condemn them because they are a secular artist. There are old hymns that were written by non-christian artists too. So fellow believers do not judge and don't condemn a secular artist if their message falls in line with the scriptures.

"God can speak through anyone because He has a monopoly in truth." 🔥🔥🔥 Praise God for you! I've been struggling with Christian liberty. This cleared out everything. God bless you!

Its really sad to see some Christians like this brother, so easily defending and even trying hard to pursue others into believing something which has no real truth or foundation on the basis of the Word of God and something that he agrees with and want others also to believe. I really think that this brother needs to pray and ask God to give him a divine gift of discernment. There are many things for that matter which are not mentioned in Bible but that does not mean that any Christian can justify that and go ahead to do those things just because its not mentioned in Bible. Bible does not talk about smoking but on the other hand there are some golden principles mentioned for Christians in Philippians 4:8, 1 Corinthians 6:19 and Romans 12:2 which teaches Christians how to make sure that we responsibly take care of our god given bodies in Holiness and Purity. I know the subject here is about listening to Secular music. The question here is really not whether a specific Secular music is good or not but its about taking guard in your spiritual lives, so that we may not fall into trap of enemy by involving ourselves into something which can pose a great danger to our own spiritual life. For instance I think this brother who is quoting so many scriptures from so many places in the Bible, May I in God's Love tell him that please go ahead and read the book of Proverbs (Read one chapter daily and you can finish it in a month). Proverbs 27:12 says "A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished". Its always wise for a Christian to take guard and avoid things which may lead to his/her spiritual downfall in long run. Once I heard a story about a Christian doctor who wanted to understand what drug addicts goes through so that he can treat them more efficiently and as an experiment he took couple of doses of a drug to see its affect on his body. As you may have guessed that ultimately he ended up being a drug addict himself. Talking about my life, When I was a nominal Christian walking in my own ways I use to hear lot of secular music and film songs etc. but when I truly met my Jesus and the word of God through His Spirit starting changing and cleaning my life inside out, the desire to even listen to such songs has gone now. "If the desire of indulging into something carnal and worldly is still present in our Christian life then its not a good sign for a Christian." Having said that I do agree with his point of view that many new contemporary Christian music are even lower in standards than some secular songs but that does not mean that we can go ahead and start listening to secular songs. Be careful, Remember a wise man sees danger and hides from it. I really wish that this brother should unnecessarily stop defending things which may hurt the faith of someone who is Weak or New in faith. Bible gives a stern warning in 1 Corinthians 8:9 "But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak." and in Luke 17:1,2 "Then He said to the disciples, “It is impossible that no offenses should come, but woe to him through whom they do come! It would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were thrown into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones." The other day one of my Sunday school kids saw some video of this brother defending the use of Tattoos on bodies and it took me much efforts, prayers and personal time of discussion to make my Sunday school child understand the real truth about that issue. My suggestion to this brother is, please be careful what you are defending as God will take into account if your reasoning (which is sometimes completely non-Biblical) is hurting the faith of those who are new or weak in faith. When we aim for Holiness and a true fellowship of God in our own personal lives, then only we really understand what we actually stand for in our Christian life. Just to conclude my comments with 1 Peter 3:15 "But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect, ". My sincere suggestion to my brother in Christ, Thrive hard to Defend your Hope and Faith in Christ and that too with gentleness and respect, but stay away from defending something which you are not really sure if its "Approved of God" or not. I'm sorry if I sounded bit hard in my words somewhere but I think that even I have a right to opinion here. I will surely pray for this brother because I like his Zeal and Spiritual Eagerness for Christ, its just that it has to be diverted more towards useful spiritual cause rather than getting involved into useless things (Titus 3:9) which does not help anyone in his or her Faith. -Santosh Thankachan

I believe it all depends on the lyrics. There are some lyrics that just talk to us in certain situations we find ourselves in.

I agree 100% with you! Thank God for making such amazing instruments to create such a beautiful and glorious sound, that bring peace and Joy in to our minds and hearts. "Psalms 95:1 O come, let us sing unto the Lord : let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation."

Something to consider! All Music has motive!!!!- Example When we listen to Worship Music it release’s the Spirit of God into the at·mos·phere-the pervading tone or mood of a place, situation, or work of art: When we Listen to secular music - it release’s the spirit of the Artist into the atmosphere what are you letting into the atmosphere of your temple do not dilute your anointing

The truth of the matter is All depends what is in your heart I know a lot of "religious" people who will ONLY listen to Christian music all day long but yet their hearts all full or envy, resentment, they gossip and hurt others with out care of what they doing how listening to only Christian music is that ok?? NO

1 Corinthians 10:31 “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” Whatever we do is to glorify God including what music we listen to. You've clearly contradicted the scriptures and have created a stumbling block for those who desire to be sanctified by the truth. Matthew 24:11 “And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.”

"God can speak through anyone because He has the monopoly on truth.." love it

Happy New Year Brother Jefferson! You make a number of good points that nobody has addressed in my Christian experience since the 1990's. Back in the early 90's I came to a place where I totally fell in love with Christian music and I had to make a choice: Listen to it AND my secular rock favorites or pursue God through an exclusive diet of Christian music and radio. When I made the choice for Christian Music, the spiritual warfare was one of the most intense events in my life but I chose Christian music (back then it was Kellye Huff, Russ Taff, Susan Ashton, Margaret Becker and praise music from Hosanna Integrity). In obedience to God, I threw away hundreds of dollars in records and cassette tapes, t-shirts and videos I had amassed. I threw a bunch of trash bags away that morning while casting each one away in the Name of Jesus. I felt a sense of incredible relief after it was over that I had been obedient to God in such a profound way. Did I regret it later? At times I did but I remember the experience as being one in which I really "died to self (self focus)". I agree that secular music can remind us of that which needs to be changed in our lives but my heart's testimony is that nothing brings our heart, soul and body into the throne room of our most wonderful and loving Father God like music that is only about Jesus. Some of my favorite examples of this is "Made me glad by Hillsong", "Always by Kristian Stanfill" and "Forever by Kari Jobe". Thank you for reading my post - Grace be with your spirit my Brother .... Scott S.

Christian music doesn't sound good to you (most of the time) because it's not for you. (and the lack of effort at times) Secular music sounds good to you because it's MEANT to feed the body/flesh. (what Christianity is against, put the flesh to death and live in spirit)

Sooooooo... Can I listen to secular music or not?

This is one of the greatest videos ive watched in a while. I recently have been trying to forget about being a "christian" and now I just want to serve God freely, and religion can get in the way of that. If I do everything the best I can for God, then it is worship. I love this guy because he has helped a lot with this. I get real honest inspiration from "secular" art all the time, and i feel like I'm really getting to know God through it.

"And whenever the harmful spirit from God was upon Saul, David took the lyre and played it with his hand. So Saul was refreshed and was well, and the harmful spirit departed from him." 1 Samuel 16:33 When King Saul was tormented by evil spirits he would actually call on King David to play the Lyre in order to soothe him with so called "Secular music!" There's you're scripture to back it up. There are many false prophets but Jefferson isn't one of them!

Mostly you're right on with your theology, but here you are showing your age and maturity. I'm a pastor and trust me, I think most of the music on K-Love is unbearably cheesy and makes Christians look lame. But is that sin? And I get the point you were trying to make about giving thanks to God for beauty. But to say that you worship through Michael Jackson's son Man In The Mirror because it says something that is true, is not worship. Worship (Prosketos) is laying prostrate before the Lord in reverence and praise. It does involve glorifying Jesus' name. If it's not sang with the intention of glorifying Christ, it is not worship or sacred. Anything that does not come from faith is sin (Romans 14:23). I get why you are defensive for your secular music that is higher quality, and yippee that you are solid enough to recognize truth from a lie. But the reality is that most of America's youth do not know the difference and are strongly influenced by the music industry. Romans 14:22 says, "Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves." I know that you are in Mark Driscoll's camp of being missional and relevant and I love Driscoll and am all for that, but don't forget to be set apart from the world bro. That's the definition of holiness.

Rejecting secular music is to entirely dismiss the effort, skill and artistic rendering that has gone into it's creation. Blinkered judgementalism blinds people to greatness and beauty. What a sorry lot are those who reject the wonders of human artistic expression.

Does The Bible not say make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Whether you think it is good or not does not matter if it glorifies the Lord. That is what matters. As long as God is glorified in the music it is good. If he is not glorified then its bad. It is as simple as that.

The world doesn't need a new version of Christianity, it needs an old school demonstration! It's all about God! Forever and ever, Amen!

Don't corrupt Christians my friend, let anything that oppose the word of God be under Gods curse. You have love for the world, which means the love of God is not in you. Christian is not famous option my brother fear God.

when you speak with your hands, you're trying to convince the people you're talking to...

This really convicted me. Wow, God bless you man.

What's wrong about 100% Jesus music? Michael Jackson did not write that by the power of the Holy Spirit! How can a worldly person identify a Christian if he is listening to Michael Jackson? So if Lil Wayne wrote a song about 'truth'.. I can listen to that too? This video is dangerous especially for very young believers. It will make them confused. Please pray more about this. Collosians 3:16!

The man in the mirror is Godly because it's true? What if dirty Diana is true, does that make it Godly? C'mon Jeff, don't be controversial for the sake of controversy, there's no time for that… stand up for Christ and speak biblically… Peace in Christ!

"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings." Jeremiah 17:9-10 "Delight thyself also in the Lord ; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart." Psalms 37:4 if your seeking GOD with all your heart and not worldly pursuits.. GOD puts HIS desires in our hearts!! "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." 1 John 2:15-17 "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Romans 12:1-2 please let us have the fear of the LORD as professing believers.. and cling to HIM.. let GOD BE TRUE AND ALL MEN LIARS... HIS WORD is the truth and it exposes our hearts and hypocrisy and pride.. we need HIM and HIS WORD that supercedes our feelings, opinions, and the traditions of man to bow down to the obedience of CHRIST... In JESUS Name amen..

This is very clear. Thanks Jeff for clarifying this for all who struggle with this type of questions. I appreciate this as a musician.

Hi Jeff, I just opened this video to be greeted by a lengthy advertisement for the Mormon Church. I thought this was something of which you would want to be aware. Keep up the good work! Your videos are a breath of fresh air for evangelicals. Austin Maynor

If you struggle with it, as you stated, then you are still weak in the faith and you shouldn't be trying to teach people. There is a lot of "christian" music that I won't listen to because it doesn't properly glorify God, especially "christian rap". But there are other genres that don't glorify God properly also, and there is a lot of mainstream "christian" music that isn't truly for God. We must be very careful what we feed our soul. You sound like you fully support the new age movement! It's sad.

you're amazingly articulate! love your videos!

Well said, my man! This has been a topic that I've basically struggled with for 16 years! I was told to not listen to anything that's not to the glory of God, essentiality anything "secular." I've asked about it, and to this day am still a little "iffy" about it, like, "Is God going to punish me for listening to secular music?! One of my arguments was positive songs, like "Man in the Mirror" (funny you should mention that, because I think that was a specific example I gave to the elder who told me about music). Anyway, great vid!

Do any of you, in all of your scorn of Jeff Bethke and his teaching, refuse then to watch movies that are not sacred? I mean, you must not fool yourself here. The Devil not only has a monopoly on the music industry, the films produced by Hollywood very well do contain ungodly themes, and the messages conveyed in movies are arguably more subversive and influential than the messages in songs. Are you then to watch only movies that are orchestrated by Christian directors? With actors that are exclusively Christian? And crews that are exclusively Christian? Christ dined with unbelievers (Mark 2:13-17). Why do you refuse any and everything that comes from an unbeliever, so self-righteous in your personal pursuits of holiness? You must engage this culture and point the people of it to Christ. How are you to do so if you refuse to try and understand their worldviews, so caught up shielding yourself from unbelievers and their art? Please correct me if I'm wrong. A Dios ser la gloria.

amen... im a blues rock guitarist and im saved.. my "church family" has a problem with me playing, but have never come to a single show.. little do they know, i throw in some crowder or Christian based lyrics... so sick of hypocritical holy and righteous people... i have a talent, and im using that talent.. oh, i also volunteer on the worship team

I disagree 100% with this video

The question is not whether it is right or wrong, it is whether it is Holy.

Some people avoid certain types of food, not because that food doesn't taste good but because of how that food makes them feel physically. That's how it is for me with secular music. I stay away from it because although it may sound good I don't like how it makes me feel spiritually.

The list of things he is promoting that are in total contradiction with the Bible is just insane. Don't listen to such guy, just read the Bible and DO what it says

You're an encouragement to me! I appreciate art, culture & beauty and i do believe God is in every beautiful thing, because He is beauty and truth Himself

Also, from the world of [secular] dance, here is a quote from Joy Womak: "Dance is my passion and my calling from God! :) I try to love others before my self interests. I dance and live at the Bolshoi Academy in Moscow, Russia. Joy, real joy in all things is what I hope to share with the world."

"I'm starting with the man in the mirror" is not a Christian message. It is self focused humanistic revival devoid of the love, peace, joy and hope of heaven that only God can give "God's grace has saved the man in the mirror" is more like it

I really want there to be good Christian pop music. I like the beat and the sound of pop music, but the only Christian pop is either 1) bad teaching in the song 2) It's badly performed or lazily performed. I swear I'm like 2 cm from learning how to play guitar and bass and drums and just making my own music to listen to. *sobs in a corner*

There are some music created by secular artists,good meaning, but has curses, but can I listen to the good clean version of artists, please answer me back.

Jeff, I just want to tell you that you seriously changed my life. I view everything so different. life, love, and religion. thank you so much! and continue what you're doing.

After reading the comments of people being hostile back and forth I realize that what is occurring here is the real sin. Honestly if Jeff is wrong then pray that he understands. In fact I say pray to God for the answer for both parties to end this hostility. I am not perfect and simply do not wish to see people making enemies out of each other because the one thing I agree with Jeff on is that religion makes enemies and hate.

Well, music about drugs, and sex is evil. The ones that use curse words in every sentence is evil. It's evil because they BOAST in evil music, and they mimic the evilness in the "secular" music. So ya... if it's a song about falling in love that's fine. As long as it doesn't use a million curse word's, sex, or drugs. We're suppose to boast in LOVE, JESUS. Some Titanic songs remind me of God's glory. God bless you all.

This is so desperately sad.

you go, bro! just talking about in our life group this past weekend. truth you spoke. amen.

The issue of music is simple. What does it glorify does it build you up and help restore your relationship with God. Does it line up with Gods unchanging Word. We are to come out of the world. Its simple I use to struggle with this same issue because I just didn't want to give it up. But the problem was it was just feeding my flesh. Encouraging me to sin. Music is ministry whether you like it or not so what do you want ministered to your spirit.

While I can get behind what he's saying here, I do have one question. I understand truth to be a universal concept, but don't beauty and excellence depend on the listener? What one person finds beautiful and excellent, it stands to reason that another will find it ugly and terrible. So is it simply left up to our own tastes?

Very interesting, unfortunately the background music was a bit distracting though

There are so many songs that are not "considered as Christian musics" have really good lyrics and I can connect it to God's grace, to God's love, and so on. Except when the song is about sin, sex, drugs, etc that only drags you away from God. So it teach me to filter which song I can listen to, and which song I should not listen to.

Thanks Jefferson, this really helps me out with my filmmaking and having a better perspective with that and watching movies. :)

what you said is absolutely true brother...

Too vague. Jeff, I've watched many of your videos and agree with much of what you have to say. Unfortunately you've left way too much to interpretation here. Using examples to help drive home a point can be highly effective, if the example being used is one who possesses an above average level of integrity - not perfect, mind you but at least pursuing a higher level of moral standards. While Michael Jackson had the right idea with "Man in the Mirror", his overall message is a "me first" and "victim" focused message (not specifically his music, but the way he lived his life as well). I also think of the music that is a product of the New Age movement...some of it is very beautiful, but serves more to lure one into the movement than to soothe, heal and most importantly, bring glory to God. Just my thoughts, would love to hear more of your perspective.

Worship music comes from people who's heart purpose is to glorify God when they write it. M. Jackson's Man in the Mirror is a positive message maybe for daily living but I'm sure he did not write with the sole purpose of glorifying, praising and giving honor to God, the great I am, the one who is and is to come. You can use it to worship Sir Bethke but I seek songs that may be anointed with the presence of the Holy Spirit (at the time they was written) which is our connection to His throne while we are living in the period of GRACE

👏 This was well explained. I did the same thing. I deleted all my secular music and one day I was cleaning. And this song" I believe I can fly" came on it was being song by a choir. I sat there and judged it's a secular song how? Then I remember having discussed this with a person who told me. There is good songs that have spiritual vibes. And that was one I thought wow. So I love music the art of it but it must be clean, and positive for me to even listen. I now have kept some songs on my playlist. While having deleted others. I am applaud at the way some Christian artist have re done some of these songs and gave a spiritual feel to it. And that was what made me go and look at this differently. I use to delete any and every song. Just because it was made by a secular artist. This was some thing to ponder and pray over. But this was well worth listening to and explained very well......😊 L.M.A.(K)

2:00 well those things are a sin theres no argument, and its not sin to poorly produce lol , i get where you're going with it but , there is such a thing as sinful music , we can't just say there isn't a satanic genre, there is blatant satanic music plus since we have things like satan working directly in the industry with people worshiping him DIRECTLY and witchcraft and things that give a new meter to things, we can't act as if satan quit his day job , there isn't just human influence here. there is blatant symbolism for the occult going on with artists to day , so we need to address THAT point of view of it instead of acting like there is only the secular and non secular view, secular really just meant wordly and it was PEOPLE who made more of a deal then it should have been however that started because during rock and roll times lyrically and vocally the artists boasted about selling there soul to satan and working for him and saying they were DIRECTLY being influenced by them. there is a false kingdom being built here so we can't arrogantly attack this point of view. although i agree with this video i am just saying.

Look at all the self righteous hypocrites in the comments.

Right on man! I'm a professional musician , have worked in bands and studios, and I have played in churches for 20 years. I agree. There is a lot of beautiful music that christians could listen to expand their horizons and benefit off different influences. I like Nada Surf, Oasis, Zedd, The Beatles, Bach, and sometimes I play tango in my piano since I'm from Argentina, and I enjoy it all!

Thanks Jeff! for your view on Worldly music, I know music is expression and so many other things, but I'll keep this video in mind when listening to music to not stray from my walk with God