Jesus is my girlfriend' type worship songs

[The Bearen]

I was listening to Jeff Lucus on one of the God channels and he made an interesting point about a modern trend in some worship songs where the words have no substance . Its almost like singing a puppy love song to Jesus. Where are the songs with the classic lyrics that speak of God"s mercy and love and hollines.

I love songwriters like Graham Kendrick and Matt Redman where they proclaim timeless biblical truths.

Dave
:):

[Don]

If you can replace the word "Jesus" with "baby" and still have a meaningful song, then something might not be right.

[The Bearen]

Spot on Don. I like it. :laugh

[Singlesis]

Never really thought about it like that. Did he give any examples of these new "puppy love" songs? Just curious.

My fav's are still Old Rugged Cross, How Great Thou Art, etc. :thumb

[kimmylg]

Actually, I can't think of anyone better to sing a love song to!

[Samer]

This reminded me of a great hymn, so I thought I'd post it! I do agree with the notion that Christian music is going down the drain and lacks substance.


My Jesus, I love Thee, I know Thou art mine;
For Thee all the follies of sin I resign.
My gracious Redeemer, my Savior art Thou;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.

I love Thee because Thou has first loved me,
And purchased my pardon on Calvary’s tree.
I love Thee for wearing the thorns on Thy brow;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.

I’ll love Thee in life, I will love Thee in death,
And praise Thee as long as Thou lendest me breath;
And say when the death dew lies cold on my brow,
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.

In mansions of glory and endless delight,
I’ll ever adore Thee in heaven so bright;
I’ll sing with the glittering crown on my brow;
If ever I loved Thee, my Jesus, ’tis now.

[Jany]

Never really thought about it like that. Did he give any examples of these new "puppy love" songs? Just curious. I would like to know which "ones", also! Uhmm.... :confused <><

[HDoggie19]

Well, I bought the Wow 2001 CD and there was a band called PlusOne on it that sounded just like the Backstreet Boys and there's a song called "Shape of My Heart" which sounds exactly like something a boyfriend/girlfriend would sing to each other. I know South Park is shunned on here for its vulgarity, but I happened to catch an episode where they were mocking Contemporary Christian artists and their desire for money instead of serving God (which I can't judge of course, but sadly in some cases, it's probably true). Cartman formed a CCM band called Faith Plus One, which is obviously mocking PlusOne and he substituted all the "baby, honey, etc" words for "Jesus" and suddenly it became a "Christian" song.
Just listen to any Contemporary Christian music station in your area, or satellite radio and a few songs sound like "Jesus is my boyfriend/girlfriend" songs. It's very sad.
In my opinion, some of the current praise and worship songs are wonderful, but nothing can beat the traditional hymns!

[GloryBound]

Did he give any examples of these new "puppy love" songs? Just curious.
Not new, but a prime example is Amy Grant's "Baby, Baby". She herself said you can sing it to Jesus or to a boyfriend or girlfriend, and she sang it to her child.

[Singlesis]

Not new, but a prime example is Amy Grant's "Baby, Baby". She herself said you can sing it to Jesus or to a boyfriend or girlfriend, and she sang it to her child.
Eeeewwwwww... I didn't know she said that. Singing "Baby, baby" to our Lord Jesus?

Yes, I am in love with my Lord, and I frequently call him my "husband". But never in a sensual way. I could never refer to him as "baby" or "sweetheart"... that's just wrong on SO many levels.

[Samer]

Amy Grant intended "Baby, Baby" as a Christian song?!

ew!

[7Rock]

Amy Grant intended "Baby, Baby" as a Christian song?!

ew!

Amy Grant wrote that song for her baby daughter.

[Samer]

oh ok, hehe.

[GloryBound]

Yes, she wrote it for her daughter, but when people asked her if it was a Christian song, she said what I wrote in my other post. And that was when some christian singers were trying to "crossover" by writing songs that could be love songs or songs to Jesus. They took out words like "Jesus" and "God" and substituted "him" or "he".

[Mr. Berean]

I was listening to Jeff Lucus on one of the God channels and he made an interesting point about a modern trend in some worship songs where the words have no substance . Its almost like singing a puppy love song to Jesus. Where are the songs with the classic lyrics that speak of God"s mercy and love and hollines.

I have noticed the same thing Dave, and it is really grieves my heart, because much of what passes for "praise" songs today just makes Christianity look like a joke.

A.W. Tozer (1897-1963) also recognized this back in his day...In his book titled "Born After Midnight" he wrote "Much singing...has in it more of romance than it has of the Holy Ghost. Words and music [don't reflect] the reverent intimacy of the adoring saint, but the impudent familiarity of the carnal lover."

Also, many of the old hymns were profound and meaningful. Much worship music today (not all, but much of it) is very shallow, repetitive and mind numbing.:(:

[Charity4Ever]

Most Christian music today doesn't have ANY Christian content at all.

The only songs that have seemed to have any Christian content in them...are some worship songs. The rest--no Gospel truth, and could fit a romantic relationship. Could be played in a UU church or a romantic outing or wherever. Often uses "you".

Sorry but that's not Christian music. Clean "family friendly" music that's maybe spiritual or even Theistic, but not Christian music. Regardless of the PERSONAL faith or walk of the artist.

And what's up with all the Christian music artists putting secular or ambiguous songs out "love" instead of "Christ" or blatantly secular songs or something, to get on the mainstream?

Repetition doesn't really bother me, some of the Psalms are very repetitive, and I've heard some really poetic deep worship songs that were repetitive. But the shallowness and the ambiguity really does.

[HarbingerSinger]

Charles Spurgeon's Feeding Sheep or Amusing Goats? (http://christianunplugged.com/amuse_goats.htm) was written long ago but is still relevant.

[alrdyreg]

Most Christian music today doesn't have ANY Christian content at all.

The only songs that have seemed to have any Christian content in them...are some worship songs. The rest--no Gospel truth, and could fit a romantic relationship. Could be played in a UU church or a romantic outing or wherever. Often uses "you".

Sorry but that's not Christian music. Clean "family friendly" music that's maybe spiritual or even Theistic, but not Christian music. Regardless of the PERSONAL faith or walk of the artist.

And what's up with all the Christian music artists putting secular or ambiguous songs out "love" instead of "Christ" or blatantly secular songs or something, to get on the mainstream?

Repetition doesn't really bother me, some of the Psalms are very repetitive, and I've heard some really poetic deep worship songs that were repetitive. But the shallowness and the ambiguity really does.


i STRONGLY disagree with that. im sorry but you have alot of flase imformation there.

every heard of disciple? seventh day slumber? jonah 33? building 429? skillet? audio adrenaline? third day? kutless? these are rock bands. not worship bands. and their lyrics are better than half the worship bands out there. what about rap - lacrae? grits? cross movement?

so some bands put one 'secular' song to get them in mainstream... well then someone hears it likes the band gets the cd and then comes to Christ.

instead of attacking CHristian bands listen to some one them.:yell :yell

[Charity4Ever]

I'm not "attacking". Any "band". I am expressing agreement and sadness with all the other posters on the thread about the trend. Not to mention on many other different Christian music forums I've also read. Goodness, I don't think it's necessarily the bands' fault. Yet according to you I am "attacking the bands".

When I say "worship," I'm talking about songs that are written directly to the Lord, in address to Him. Bands like the ones you mentioned make some excellent songs. I love Third Day's "You Are Mine", Building 429's "The Space In Between Us, Glory Defined", AA's "Pierced, Leaving 99" Kutless' "Take Me In, Sea of Faces,". But they are all worship songs--although by genre they are rock or whatever. As I said, most of the Christian ones I've heard, on the Christian radio, were worship songs. The ones that weren't in direct address to God are usually quite shallow.

Have you heard music from bands like Kerry Livgren & AD? Lamb? Honeytree? Keith Green? Malcolm & Alwyn? DeGarmo & Key? Love Song? Mustard Seed Faith? Any of the original seven Maranatha albums? If you haven't, you should listen to them. They all were around when a massive revival was happening in the '70s.

I can't see how an album, with blatantly secular non-worship tracks, combined with other worship tracks about an intimate spiritual relationship in direct address to the Father that unbelievers haven't experienced, can't understand well, or causes them to think, well, that works for the artist personally but not for me, will lead them to Christ. The less Gospel there is in the songs, the less they'll hear it. Nuggets of truth only believers would understand in that context without explanation, in other songs, doesn't work well. Especially when they can just buy the songs track for track they listen to on the radio for a LOT cheaper or on a collection of radio hits.

I heard one of Stacie Orrico's songs, "Stuck" being played by one of my very secular nonreligious suitemates a couple years ago. I asked her about it. She didn't know who did it. One of her friends gave it to her on a CD that was burned for her. Track-by-track.

[boxer77]

I find Keith greens music moving, you can feel and hear his passion for Jesus Christ.
I tend often wonder if God didnt take keith out of this world for His own benefit like enoch, I know it was diffrent circumstances, but I always wondered.

[GloryBound]

I wonder about that, too, boxer.

[imfree]

I find Keith greens music moving, you can feel and hear his passion for Jesus Christ.
I tend often wonder if God didnt take keith out of this world for His own benefit like enoch, I know it was diffrent circumstances, but I always wondered.

I never really thought of it that way before. Could be.

I love Christian music, but I gotta say that when I go to church on a Wednesday night and walk away feeling like I've just been to a rock concert something is just not right.

[alrdyreg]

which albums have secular tracks but are Christian bands?

i agree there are some christians in a band that are not christian bands.

[rancherswife]

If you read the op, it specifically discusses "love song" type worship music.

And, btw, the op is exactly correct.

God demands reverence in worship. We are commanded to worship in spirit and truth.

[LaMontre]

Lets face it folks, anyone can take biblical words and terms and make a song out of them, not that any of that isn't great, it is. But I think it is nice to hear lyrics in songs that put those words in shoe leather.

In other words, songs about what it is to be a Christian and to walk with God. Songs that place spirituality in terms that anyone can understand and relate to. I think those are the songs that bring people a real message.

I do agree too that praise and worship songs should exalt the Lord and place our thoughts on him though. Although, is that really up to the song? Hmmm.

[Magnum]

Lets face it folks, anyone can take biblical words and terms and make a song out of them, not that any of that isn't great, it is. But I think it is nice to hear lyrics in songs that put those words in shoe leather.

In other words, songs about what it is to be a Christian and to walk with God. Songs that place spirituality in terms that anyone can understand and relate to. I think those are the songs that bring people a real message.

I do agree too that praise and worship songs should exalt the Lord and place our thoughts on him though. Although, is that really up to the song? Hmmm.

Bingo! It's about YOUR heart, and your attitude. I believe if you're forced to sing a Marylin Manson song, you could do it in such a way that would praise the Lord, because of what's in your HEART. Check these puppy love lyrics out:

Oh Lord, You're beautiful
Your face, is all I see
For when, your eyes, are on this child
Your Grace abounds to me

Kerry Livgren rules by the way, some of the absolute best lyrics of all time were written by this man. That's where I got my avatar, remember his Kansas album with John Brown on the cover?

Where is the promise of His coming?
All things continue just as we desire
They have forgotten the ancient world
So once by water, now by fire

After seven years, No more tears

The fury waits above the sky
The Lord of hosts will purify
On wings of fire He will appear
As the end is drawing near

And if those days had not been shortened
No flesh would survive
He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked
But with their sin He will not strive

After seven years, No more tears

The fury waits above the sky
The Lord of hosts will purify
And His redeemed are justified
Their blood avenged and satisfied

The fury waits above the sky
The Lord of hosts will purify
He pours His wrath upon the earth
To His kingdom giving birth

The fury

Kerry Livgren

[LaMontre]

Bingo! It's about YOUR heart, and your attitude. I believe if you're forced to sing a Marylin Manson song, you could do it in such a way that would praise the Lord, because of what's in your HEART. Check these puppy love lyrics out:

Oh Lord, You're beautiful
Your face, is all I see
For when, your eyes, are on this child
Your Grace abounds to me

Kerry Livgren rules by the way, some of the absolute best lyrics of all time were written by this man. That's where I got my avatar, remember his Kansas album with John Brown on the cover?

Where is the promise of His coming?
All things continue just as we desire
They have forgotten the ancient world
So once by water, now by fire

After seven years, No more tears

The fury waits above the sky
The Lord of hosts will purify
On wings of fire He will appear
As the end is drawing near

And if those days had not been shortened
No flesh would survive
He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked
But with their sin He will not strive

After seven years, No more tears

The fury waits above the sky
The Lord of hosts will purify
And His redeemed are justified
Their blood avenged and satisfied

The fury waits above the sky
The Lord of hosts will purify
He pours His wrath upon the earth
To His kingdom giving birth

The fury

Kerry Livgren

Or even these;
When dreaming I'm guided through another world
Time and time again
At sunrise I fight to stay asleep
'Cause I don't want to leave the comfort of this place
'Cause there's a hunger, a longing to escape
From the life I live when I'm awake
So let's go there
Let's make our escape
Come on, let's go there
Let's ask can we stay?
Can you take me higher?
To the place where blind men see
Can you take me higher?
To the place with golden streets
Although I would like our world to change
It helps me to appreciate
Those nights and those dreams
But, my friend, I'd sacrifice all those nights
If I could make the Earth and my dreams the same
The only difference is
To let love replace all our hate
So let's go there
Let's make our escape
Come on, let's go there
Let's ask can we stay?
Up high I feel like I'm alive for the very first time
Up high I'm strong enough to take these dreams
And make them mine

That is artistic expression with a Christian perspective. I love it.

Art used to be the pervue of the Christian. A great part of classical art was inspired by Christian themes and world views. But today, we have given up that position for keeping it in a specific genre (behind the walls of the church). I think thats a mistake.

[Magnum]

Oh yeah, well, take this!

ALL CREATION SINGS
Kerry Livgren

Dreaming awake as I'm lying down
Gazing at starlit skies
The feeling grows as my wonder shows
Trying to crystallize
The wind in the trees is a melody,
Just like me, yearning to harmonize

The rivers speak and the waters cry,
Wanting to hear Your name
Deep in the bowels of an ancient earth,
Groaning to be reclaimed
Anticipating the grand return,
Crying out for the page to turn

I want to know as I am known
And see You as You are
Every knee will bow,
And all will proclaim

All creation sings, hail the King of kings
All creation sings, to the glory of Your name

Joy at the end of the great decline
For all who will heed Your call
An end to the sin and an end to the pain
You will restore us all
We're sons of dust in the Son of Man
Chosen long e'er the world began.

I want to know as I am known
And see You as You are
Every knee will bow,
And all will proclaim

All creation sings, hail the King of kings
All creation sings,
now we lift our hands in praise,
such an anthem we will raise,
when Your kingdom comes to earth

[LaMontre]

Awsome!

[adamis423]

Have you heard music from bands like Kerry Livgren & AD? Lamb? Honeytree? Keith Green? Malcolm & Alwyn? DeGarmo & Key? Love Song? Mustard Seed Faith? Any of the original seven Maranatha albums? If you haven't, you should listen to them. They all were around when a massive revival was happening in the '70s.



Keith Green and 2nd Chapter of Acts were my favorite in the 70's and early 80's.

Still love to sit back and listen to Keith Green, he's music definately had a heart for God. No Comprise, To obey is better than sacrifice, How can they live without Jesus, Altar Call....WOW!!!! And now Keith Green is in the presence of God...I'm sure singing with the angels. Our loss....heaven's gain.

[rancherswife]

The songs used in worship should reflect scriptural truth. If you just want to listen to a nice song, that's a whole different story.

Words DO matter, and when you are praising the LORD of the universe, Ha-Shem, you are to do so in words that honor Him and show reverence to Him. If the song or hymn you're using doesn't fit that bill, then it shouldn't be used as a praise song.

[predestined1]

I believe the bible teaches to actually sing the Psalms in worship! I am glad to go to a church that does just that.

[Magnum]

The songs used in worship should reflect scriptural truth. If you just want to listen to a nice song, that's a whole different story.

Words DO matter, and when you are praising the LORD of the universe, Ha-Shem, you are to do so in words that honor Him and show reverence to Him. If the song or hymn you're using doesn't fit that bill, then it shouldn't be used as a praise song.
That would be your OPINION. Scripture is pretty silent on the subject as far as I know. Many of the "great hymms", were at the time condemned, because they used the music from bar songs, and put Christian words to them :eek

[Mr. Igg]

I was listening to Jeff Lucus on one of the God channels and he made an interesting point about a modern trend in some worship songs where the words have no substance . Its almost like singing a puppy love song to Jesus. Where are the songs with the classic lyrics that speak of God"s mercy and love and hollines.

I love songwriters like Graham Kendrick and Matt Redman where they proclaim timeless biblical truths.

Dave
:):

Just thought I'd bring it back to the OP, which focuses on worship songs. I think, as others have noted, there's an appropriate distinction between worship songs and, for lack of a more clever name, "other Christian" songs. I'd posted a while back about Ian Eskelin (can't find the post now), grammy winning front man for All Star United, who planned to write an album of parables (very clearly defined as following Christ's example of parables). An interviewer accused Eskelin (several times) of planning to leave Christian music, since his songs weren't going to be so overtly Christian. :doh By that interviewer's standard, Jesus' parables must've been taught during his "pagan sabbatical"? :frusty I'm all for solid, meaty worship songs that proclaim, as the OP says, "timeless Biblical truths". I'm also all for "other Christian" songs that teach truths in somewhat less overt ways, that might get the word out.

[predestined1]

That would be your OPINION. Scripture is pretty silent on the subject as far as I know. Many of the "great hymms", were at the time condemned, because they used the music from bar songs, and put Christian words to them :eek

The bible does tell us what to sing in worship.

Colossians 3 and Ephesians 5 command Christians to sing Psalms.

[faline]

For me, there is something wonderful about the classic hymns...they are inspired, powerful, full of meaning, scripture and praise. And they are often majestic.

[HeIsEnough]

Kerry Livgren!


End Of The Age - Kansas
When the light dies down and you blood runs cold
Then you know what you fear most is growing old
The clock winds down and the bells will toll
For the dawn that follows may require your soul

(Chorus)
Through the narrows there are few who pass
Only the chosen enter in
Seek your calling while it may be found
For the sand in the hourglass is falling
We hang in the balance one by one
Turn from you ways the voice is calling
And fear the end of the age

Now the evil deed never goes unseen
And the wisdom of your wise men is unclean
For the pride of life and the lust for gain
Is a sickness of the heart, the Mark of Cain

(Chorus)

Sword and shield, the right hand of power's
Protecting us, directing us
He'll reveal the glory that's only His own
With a fire in the sky

When the mountains fall and the heavens roar
Then the reign of man will end forevermore
And the fools who believed in their empty ways
Will be witness to a world that's set ablaze


Livgren was an inspiration for me. He kept me interested back in the late 70's/early 80's in my baby walk. Kansas rocked, I think they were way ahead of their time.

[Magnum]

For me, there is something wonderful about the classic hymns...they are inspired, powerful, full of meaning, scripture and praise. And they are often majestic.

If you want majestic, try Kerry's "Ground Zero".

Days are short and time so dear
So very much remains to be done
It's time to speak of one so near
'Til all hearts have been won

(Chorus)
The day is coming when men will look to the skies
The consummation of all who realize
We are waiting for ground zero

The wall is high beyond is much to find
A barrier we built so long ago
With fearful hope and a faith that is not blind
From clouds of joy we'll see the depths below

(Chorus)

Across the sea and far away
The eyes of all the world await the Passion Play
The final act at last begun
The new is born the old is bound to pass away
No more the turn of the pages
And now the hope of the ages
For all the bondage is broken, all who see

The oracles, the prophets of the past
The miracle of knowledge was revealed
The plan was laid upon a strong foundation
So long ago the future was sealed

The end of this song about the rapture, is several minutes of majestic orchestral bliss :D:

[Magnum]

Livgren was an inspiration for me. He kept me interested back in the late 70's/early 80's in my baby walk. Kansas rocked, I think they were way ahead of their time.
What amazed me was how he was able to communicate so much important biblical truth in 7 songs with his album, "Seeds of Change". And his theology was/is something that so called preachers today, bah.......

His music in AD is great stuff too. New age blues, All creation sings, the Fury etc etc.

[PlentyGroovy]

:wave I like Christian Rock..

Ok you win,
You caught me daydreamin' again,
About our sudden evacuation,


Or my latest favorite, I always turn this up

My God He was
My God He is
My God is always gonna Be

:):

If this music gets our young people away from the secular disgusting lyrics...:clap Jesus take the wheel...knowing this is playing on secular radio...:thumb

[mandoman]

What amazed me was how he was able to communicate so much important biblical truth in 7 songs with his album, "Seeds of Change". And his theology was/is something that so called preachers today, bah.......

His music in AD is great stuff too. New age blues, All creation sings, the Fury etc etc.

Livgren has a new band now called Proto-Kaw. Some of the members were in a band with him in the early 70s before he joined Kansas. They just released a new CD in January, and they tour a little bit as well. You can check them out here:

www.protokaw.com

[janh7]

Wow, pretty judgmental thread. I have heard supposedly spiritual songs sung by groups that were not in the right place with the Lord. There is a singer who was quite popular for a while, who sang the kinds of songs you are speaking of that you would think were "spiritual". This guy was a married man having an affair with a member a band that was opening for him and she was pregnant...Um, so you see its not the songs, people. Its the heart. Praise can be offered up to God in any language because it is not the language its the condition of the heart.

[Magnum]

Livgren has a new band now called Proto-Kaw. Some of the members were in a band with him in the early 70s before he joined Kansas. They just released a new CD in January, and they tour a little bit as well. You can check them out here:

www.protokaw.com

No offense, but, you don't think I knew this? Where do you think I got my avatar? :D:

[PlentyGroovy]

Wow, pretty judgmental thread. I have heard supposedly spiritual songs sung by groups that were not in the right place with the Lord. There is a singer who was quite popular for a while, who sang the kinds of songs you are speaking of that you would think were "spiritual". This guy was a married man having an affair with a member a band that was opening for him and she was pregnant...Um, so you see its not the songs, people. Its the heart. Praise can be offered up to God in any language because it is not the language its the condition of the heart.

Here! Here!! :clap :clap :clap EXACTLY :nod

[4everHis]

I am not sure what happened to Amy Grant. I think possibly, she saw $$$'s that lured her to the pop side of the charts.

[predestined1]

The bible does tell us what to sing in worship.

Colossians 3 and Ephesians 5 command Christians to sing Psalms.

[HeIsEnough]

The bible does tell us what to sing in worship.

Colossians 3 and Ephesians 5 command Christians to sing Psalms.



Ephesians 5

19Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.


Colossians 3

13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

[Chris4Christ]

Lets face it folks, anyone can take biblical words and terms and make a song out of them, not that any of that isn't great, it is. But I think it is nice to hear lyrics in songs that put those words in shoe leather.

In other words, songs about what it is to be a Christian and to walk with God. Songs that place spirituality in terms that anyone can understand and relate to. I think those are the songs that bring people a real message.

I do agree too that praise and worship songs should exalt the Lord and place our thoughts on him though. Although, is that really up to the song? Hmmm.
I agree with you.


There are different Christian songs that serve different purposes. And there are different worship/praise songs that address different aspects of God's nature. God is so many things. Yes, He is holy, but He is not ONLY holy. He is also LOVE. Why is it wrong for a person to sing a love song to their savior???

Didn't David sing of his love for the Lord as he danced around and around? Some people wouldn't think that was "reverent" enough. But that was David's way of worshipping his Lord that he loved. Different people are moved in different ways. Different people have different preferences. People need to stop knocking "modern" worship music just because it isn't to their taste.

I love modern Christian worship music that makes me want to dance in the pews, but I also love the more solemn music that reminds of us His holiness. I don't find one to be better than the other.

[predestined1]

What did David sing?

[Magnum]

I am not sure what happened to Amy Grant. I think possibly, she saw $$$'s that lured her to the pop side of the charts.
Not likely, she was raised in a well to do home, was probably at the time, one of, if not the highest paid "gospel" performer, and, was she already married to Vince Gil?

[HeIsEnough]

What did David sing?

Good question. It was David who was used by God to author many of the psalms. So, naturally some were used for that purpose. I am fairly certain that the Jews probably had many songs they sang, at that time. You can search some Jewish references for that, if you like. Either way, Paul makes it clear that 'psalms' are not the only thing we should/must/can sing. This is the age of grace friend, so God sheds His graces upon many to sing all kinds of songs to Him.....some obviously better than others perhaps, but many coming from sincere hearts in worshipping our God. Anyway, that would be my opinion.

[joy4Him2day]

Since we a dueling lyrics, I had to add my favorite Jars Song:

WORLDS APART

i am the only one to blame for this
somehow it all adds up the same
soaring on the wings of selfish pride
i flew too high
and like icarus i collide
with a world i try so hard to leave behind
to rid myself of all but love
to give and die

to turn away and not become
another nail to pierce the skin of one who loves
more deeply than the oceans
more abundant than the tears
of a world embracing every heartache


can i be the one to sacrifice
or grip the spear and watch the blood and water flow


to love you - take my world apart
to need you - i am on my knees
to love you - take my world apart
to need you - broken on my knees


all said and done i stand alone
amongst remains of a life i should not own
it takes all i am to believe
in the mercy that covers me


did you really have to die for me
all i am for all you are
because what i need and what i believe are worlds apart


i look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
and wipe away the crimson stains
and dull the nails that still remain
more and more i need you now
i owe you more each passing hour
the battle between grace and pride
i gave up not so long ago
so steal my heart and take the pain
and wash the feet and cleanse my pride
take the selfish, take the weak
and all the things i cannot hide
take the beauty, take my tears
the sin-soaked heart and make it yours
take my world all apart
take it now, take it now
and serve the ones that I despise
speak the words i can't deny
watch the world i used to love
fall to dust and thrown away
i look beyond the empty cross
forgetting what my life has cost
so wipe away the crimson stains
and dull the nails that still remain
so steal my heart and take the pain
take the selfish, take the weak
and all the things i cannot hide
take the beauty, take my tears
take my world apart, take my world apart
i pray, i pray, i pray
take my world apart



Written by Jars of Clay
Copyright 1995 BridgeBuilding Music (BMI)/
Pogostick Music (BMI). All rights reserved.

[Gary]

I am not sure what happened to Amy Grant. I think possibly, she saw $$$'s that lured her to the pop side of the charts.

Not sure where you are getting this either..:confused

Amy just released a new album.......ironically enough, it's all old hymns.


Psalms says to praise Him with dancing, timbrels and harps (drums and guitars).


Psa 149:3 Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.


Sounds pretty modern to me.

[stormtrooper]

I can't stand most of CCM played these days. I just can't take the sound of canned pop music, an effeminate sounding male singer crooning tunes to Jesus, or some gal singing teeny-bopper lyrics to Jesus as if He is some guy hanging out at the mall.

[PanTerra]

More Kerry Livgren, from one of my favorite Kansas Albums - Audiovisions.

"Relentless"

(Kerry Livgren)


In the time we spent together
Many words have passed between
And the feelings that we shared are all behind us now
'Cause a change has come upon me
And I'm surly not the same
There is so much more than what we feel and live every day

(Chorus)
Relentless, unchanging
Though the world is still before me now
I'm seeing forever
I will keep my heart and mind with you
So joyously I'm waiting for the day

In a single timeless moment
When the old was cast away
The new was born into a world of simple joy
And my life is still for living
Though it's seen through different eyes
And the knowledge of the truth's
A burden easy to bear

(Bridge)

It's drawing so near
It's shrouded in mystery
Histories fall, the end of an age
The feeling we're waiting for, hoping for
Now, the time to come alive
The end to which we strive
Will soon arrive

Now the gift is truly given
If you only would receive
For you're standing in the crossroads
And you can't turn back
Though we can't conceive forever
And it's sometimes hard to care
Our lives do not compare to what's awaiting us there

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Hold On"

(Kerry Livgren)


Look in the mirror and tell me
Just what you see
What have the years of your life
Taught you to be
Innocence dyin' in so many ways
Things that you dream of are lost
Lost in the haze

(Chorus)
Hold on, Baby Hold on
'Cause it's closer than you think
And you're standing on the brink
Hold on, Baby Hold on
'Cause there's something on the way
Your tomorrow's not the same as today

Don't you recall what you felt
When you weren't alone
Someone who stood by your side
A face you have known
Where do you run when it's too much to bear
Who do you turn to in need
When nobody's there

(Chorus)

Outside your door He is waiting
Waiting for you
Sooner or later you know
He's got to get through
No hesitation and no holding back
Let it all go and you'll know
You're on the right track

(Chorus)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Curtain Of Iron"

(Kerry Livgren)


The streets of the city are barren
All the windows and doors have been closed
As the night draws near
You can feel their fear
Their freedom is just an illusion
And they tell us that love is a lie
Can it all be true
What can one man do

(Chorus)
See the pages as they turn
Never will the children learn
Born as a prisoner in a curtain of iron
Never will the pages turn

The City of Gold's in the distance
And they've already forgotten their dream
Visions slowly fade
In this land of shade

(Chorus)

As the power grows, darkness spreading
Hope is still alive, though we're dreading
What the future holds, no more need to
Fear what all men face
Only good can win the race

Rumors speak of war, all the nations
Turmoil in the streets, tribulations
Now it's plain to see
All the prophecies are taking place
Only good can win the race

There are fragments of truth still remaining
And they bring them the light of the world
To this hope we cling
Till the bells will ring

See the pages as they turn
In their wisdom we will learn
Our bloody history soon will resolve
See the pages as they turn
In their wisdom we will learn
Free from the prison, a Curtain of Iron


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"No One Together"

(Kerry Livgren)


Centuries of backward ways, have many left behind us
Who can count the good men gone away
The fruits of all our labors have left us as we started
We've come too far to end it in a day
It seems that everything we do is wrong
A one way trip to nowhere all along
Just look around and tell me what you see
Another stupid page of history

(Chorus)
No one together, No one is touching ground
Look to each other, Chaos is all around
Same situation, Nothing is really new
No one together, No one is me and you

Lo the horn of plenty is bursting at the seam
The harvest of the world will be our prize
We claim to know the secrets, the answers have been found
But how can one fool make another wise
'Cause nothing's better than it used to be
To live and die is still a mystery
We take away and we give nothing back
We just consume it all and still we lack

(Chorus)

Each day passed by so quickly now
You can feel it drawing much closer now
The signs are in the faces of the people in the street
The signs are in the sound I hear
The voices filled with hate and fear
You can feel it drawing near you now

The multitudes are searching, and wandering in vain
For what they seek cannot be found in men
The truth that lies before us now is plain for all to see
To grow without is not to grow within
For in the promise is a victory
To see the way that everything should be
To feel the joy that we were meant to know
We should have realized so long ago

We're all together, Harmony will abound'
Look at each other, All that was lost is found
New situation if our direction's true
We're all together, Everyone is me and you

[LaMontre]

I agree with you.


There are different Christian songs that serve different purposes. And there are different worship/praise songs that address different aspects of God's nature. God is so many things. Yes, He is holy, but He is not ONLY holy. He is also LOVE. Why is it wrong for a person to sing a love song to their savior???

Didn't David sing of his love for the Lord as he danced around and around? Some people wouldn't think that was "reverent" enough. But that was David's way of worshipping his Lord that he loved. Different people are moved in different ways. Different people have different preferences. People need to stop knocking "modern" worship music just because it isn't to their taste.

I love modern Christian worship music that makes me want to dance in the pews, but I also love the more solemn music that reminds of us His holiness. I don't find one to be better than the other.

Amen! (Love your sig gif! :thumb)

[LaMontre]

I can't stand most of CCM played these days. I just can't take the sound of canned pop music, an effeminate sounding male singer crooning tunes to Jesus, or some gal singing teeny-bopper lyrics to Jesus as if He is some guy hanging out at the mall.

:lol I'm with ya!

[mandoman]

More Kerry Livgren, from one of my favorite Kansas Albums - Audiovisions.


--------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Hold On"

(Kerry Livgren)


I'm a musician and have performed "Hold On" in concert quite a few times. Great song.

[Chris4Christ]

Amen! (Love your sig gif! :thumb)

Thank you! My friend, Lydia, made it for me. She is super talented. You should meet her some time. I think you'd really like her.

:B: :laugh

[LaMontre]

Thank you! My friend, Lydia, made it for me. She is super talented. You should meet her some time. I think you'd really like her.

:B: :laugh

Got a phone number??:heh

[PanTerra]

Got a phone number??:heh

You go, LeMontre...nudge nudge, say no more.

[predestined1]

Good question. It was David who was used by God to author many of the psalms. So, naturally some were used for that purpose. I am fairly certain that the Jews probably had many songs they sang, at that time. You can search some Jewish references for that, if you like. Either way, Paul makes it clear that 'psalms' are not the only thing we should/must/can sing. This is the age of grace friend, so God sheds His graces upon many to sing all kinds of songs to Him.....some obviously better than others perhaps, but many coming from sincere hearts in worshipping our God. Anyway, that would be my opinion.

Where does Paul make this clear?

[HeIsEnough]

Where does Paul make this clear?

I trust you did not see post #47.

I will repeat it again.


Ephesians 5

19Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, 20always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.



Colossians 3

13Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. 15Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. 16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

It remains pretty clear to me, but I realize some do not wish to share that same conviction. Shalom.

[predestined1]

I am not EP, but I enjoy them more than others songs. I do believe that EP is much "safer" in regard to what pleases God.

[LaMontre]

You go, LeMontre...nudge nudge, say no more.

;):

[Chrystalwuzhere]

I like traditional, southern gospel, praise and worship, and CCM.

Here's one of my favorite traditional hymns:

I MUST TELL JESUS

Words and Music by Elisha A. Hoffman

I must tell Jesus all of my trials;
I cannot bear these burdens alone;
In my distress He kindly will help me;
He ever loves and cares for His own.

Refrain

I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!
I cannot bear my burdens alone;
I must tell Jesus! I must tell Jesus!
Jesus can help me, Jesus alone.
I must tell Jesus all of my troubles;
He is a kind, compassionate friend;
If I but ask Him, He will deliver,
Make of my troubles quickly an end.

Refrain

Tempted and tried, I need a great Savior;
One Who can help my burdens to bear;
I must tell Jesus, I must tell Jesus;
He all my cares and sorrows will share.

Refrain

O how the world to evil allures me!
O how my heart is tempted to sin!
I must tell Jesus, and He will help me
Over the world the victory to win.