GBC Elders' Perspective on Music and Media Used in Conjunction with Its FacilityGBC Elders' Perspective on Music & Media Used in Conjunction with Its Facility
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We believe that music or other forms of media that are used in conjunction with our facility should be God honoring. This is not to say that all music must be "sacred" and that no "secular" music can be used. Ulitmately, we do not believe that there is to be any distinction between the sacred and the secular for the Christian. Music and media can be considered gifts from God and they are to be enjoyed as part of His creation. This is true even if it is enjoyed purely for entertainment purposes and outside of specific "worship" purposes. Even music that may not directly convey any type of divine truth or spiritual theme can still be enjoyed to the glory of God. God honoring music need not be limited to songs that specifically mention God or make overtly evangelistic appeals.
We often imagine a sacred part of our lives which involves praying, attending church, singing hymns, and reading the Bible that is separate from the secular part that involves eating, drinking, going to ball games, reading the newspaper, watching T.V., and listening to music on the radio. But the earth and everything in it belongs to God. While music inhabits a variety of genres, from hip-hop to folk, classical to country, God can be honored in music that reflects good craftmanship and that is a creative body of work. Man reflects God's image by creating and enjoying good music.
That being said, we do not think that it is possible for music, movies, or any other media with content that explicitly contradicts God's revelation or His divine character to honor Him in any way. Music which glorifies sexual immorality, idolatry, drunkenness, lawlessness, and the like, conforms our minds to the world's system. To be entertained with media content that is in direct opposition to God's revealed will for a holy life creates a dichotomy in the Christian's mind and in his allegiances. Because music that glorifies and/or promotes sin is not beneficial for people or honoring to God, we do not wish this kind of music to be used in our facility. We ask that the principles found in Ephesians 5:1-21 pervade every "sacred" or "secular" meeting at GBC.
This statement is to be given to and read by all those planning to use music or any other media in our facility. Because we do not believe that it is practical, expedient, or even possible in many cases for us to personally "screen" each song, we ask that those hosting the event and/or performing at it take the responsibility upon themselves to apply the principles expressed in this statement.
One further issue that is often associated with this one is the question of dancing. We do not believe that it is wrong or sinful to dance. Scriptural principles do inform us that forms of dancing that arouse sexual excitement are wrong for unmarried couples to participate in. However, when it comes to other (non-arousing) forms of dancing, there are no direct commands in Scripture that prohibit it and so we leave the decision up to the individuals' own application of biblical principles on whether they should dance or not.
We realize that differences of opinion exist concerning these issues and so this perspective should not be taken to reflect the values of individual members of Grace Bible Church. We would encourage members who do no share this point of view to demonstrate understanding based on the fact that 1)It is not a church sponsored event, but an event where a group has simply rented our facility, 2) the Scriptures compel us to "not go beyond what is written" and outlaw things that may be permissible (I Cor. 4:6), and 3) events such as weddings are designed to honor the bride and the groom and to fulfill their wishes. They are not designed to suit the individual tastes and preferences of those in attendance or the owners/operators of the facility. Furthermore, our very good name guides us on these issues. Grace: we are not law or rules oriented but grace-governed. Bible: It is our guidebook, not traditional religious viewpoints or opinions. Church:The church is the people who make up the body of Christ, not the building. There is nothing uniquely sacred or holy about the facility we meet in. These points were weighed carefully and were instrumental in our final decision to permit "secular" media and dancing in our building with the qualification that it does not directly contradict God's character or His will for our lives.
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