The Power of Music
Music is a powerful force in our world that can be used to glorify God and help His people stay close to Him (Ephesians 5:19). Jesus said, “…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). Because God loves us, He gave His people the gift of music to be a blessing.
On the other hand, music can also be used to influence the listener to disobey God (Daniel 3:5). We live during a point in history where Satan knows he has a short time to influence people to reject God and join his rebellion before he is destroyed (Revelation 12:12). Satan is a great deceiver (Revelation 12:9). He was created with a gift for music before he fell (Ezekiel 28:13-15), which makes sense that he would use music to influence people to his side.
Rock and Metal Music
While not all rock or metal bands openly worship Satan, the reason this type of music has had a history of being termed “satanic” is because many rock or metal bands are in fact public about worshiping Satan. Many of their practices during performances are satanic in nature, such as wearing or having displays of the devil or satanic symbols (pentagrams, upside down crosses, 666, goat heads, etc.), openly cursing God and Jesus, and even performing satanic rituals such as spraying animal blood and praying to Satan. In addition, certain band’s song lyrics openly worship Satan. These are clear indicators that the purpose of their music is to influence the listener toward Satan, hence, the reputation.
In addition, the lifestyle and/or lyrics of many bands are often not in harmony with Scripture. Their lyrics as well as rhythm of their music often promote rebellion, sexual impulses or negative emotions such as anger or depression. Satan is subtle (Genesis 3:1) and Christians who desire to be connected to God have to be careful of what they receive in their minds (2 Corinthians 10:4-5).
Some argue that because there are “Christian” rock or metal bands, it means that the music is not satanic and safe to listen to. While the lyrics may be fine, again the rhythm which is the “spirit” of the music still needs to be kept in check. The rhythm of music appeals to the fleshy part of the human nature while the melody appeals to the intellectual part.
It is possible that the performers of Christian rock or metal bands are sincere in trying to worship God with their style of music. However, it is up to the listener to chose and select that which is in harmony with the spirit of the Bible (Malachi 3:18). There are instances in the Bible where worship was offered to God but was not accepted because it was not in harmony with what God instructed (Genesis 4:3-7, Leviticus 10:1-2). Because we live in a time when the enemy of souls is trying to deceive, Christians must be very careful as to what music they choose (Matthew 7:14-15).
Bible Principles for Music
Some guiding principles for music in the Bible are that music should bring the listener to spiritual understanding (Psalm 47:7, Colossians 3:16), desire to obey God (Psalm 61:8) and bring the feelings of joy, reverence and gratitude toward God (Psalm 67:4; 98:4; 147:7; Hebrews 12:28). It should be melodic, harmonious and elevating (Ephesians 5:19; Psalms 150:1-5; 98:5; 2 Chronicles 5:13).
Music that is satanic is not limited to rock and metal alone. Any style can be used by Satan. This is why we must be careful of both the words as well as the rhythm or “spirit” of the music. Paul wrote, “I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also” (1 Corinthians 14:15).
In His service,
BibleAsk Team
