Now, John, aren't you being a little harsh on Jay? Perhaps even a little judgemental? I didn't read his email as being judgemental, just inquisitive. I don't think he meant that all Christian rock music was solely entertainment.This is what I think:
There are many types of people and everybody worships in the way that most connects him or her to God. Music has altered and changed over the centuries, responding to the needs of the time. Personally, I have been touched by Christ-centered rock,hip-hop, gospel -- you name it. If it praises -- truly praises God -- I'm all for it.
However, I find that over the years, I've come to be even more deeply moved by classical music. Bach loved the Lord and worshiped God through his music. I am deeply moved by Bach's devotion to God and his music makes me feel closer to God. Handel's Messiah is one of the greatest musical works ever conposed -- and one of the most spiritual. Through music, Handel portrayed the emotion of the Messianic prophesies and the suffering of Christ. Once, I sang "He Was Despised" in church. After the service many, many people came up to me and said how it so vividly portrayed Christ's suffering. Now that's powerful.
However, I do think there is a subtle movement creeping into all churches -- contemporary and traditional. That is to focus more on the music rather than on God. I am deeply opposed to applause in church as it praises mere mortals. All our praise, thanks and welcome should be to God, not the musicians. Often congregants oppose this view because they say they are only showing appreciation to the musicians. The best way to show appreciation to musicians is to pay them an descent wage!
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This is the debut album by EXW friend Paul Langford. Paul is a Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor. Paul has a career that spans 14 years. Paul's work includes arranging for groups like GLAD, Voices of Liberty, VoiceTrek, The Chicago based "Caroling Party" and Day of Discovery Singers. His arranging has appeared on recordings side by side with greats like Gene Puerling and David Maddux, and he has sung with Don Shelton, Bonnie Herman and Bob Bowker, among others.