MUSIC AND ITS SPIRITUAL IMPACT

Is there such a thing as good or bad music? Is music simply a matter of personal taste, or are there styles that should not be listened to at all? When this topic is discussed in Christian circles, one often hears the claim: “Music itself doesn’t really matter. The words are what matter; everything else is unimportant.” But is that actually true? And do those who say this truly believe it themselves?

When I think about this question, I am reminded of my elementary school music teacher. He used to repeat the same phrase over and over—one that still echoes in my mind today: “Music is stronger than death.” This man was not a Christian. That alone raises another question: why did a secular person clearly understand the power of music, while many Christians hesitate to acknowledge it or prefer not to give it much thought?

Even people outside the church understand how powerful music can be. Are there really people on earth who do not enjoy music at all? Consider television advertising. Can you think of even a single commercial without musical accompaniment? Try to imagine it. Without music, advertising would hardly be able to affect emotions or persuade people to buy a product.

When we look at the spiritual dimension, the influence of music becomes even more evident. Even today, we see how music—acting as a driving force—has divided church communities. Entire congregations and even generations have been hurt and separated by deep divisions. And often, this happens not because of false doctrine, but because of disagreements over music.

This leads us to the following question: does the concept of spiritual or Christian music actually exist? This subject deserves thoughtful reflection. All that is required is an open heart and honesty with ourselves.

The issue is not so much about what is allowed or forbidden, but about why certain things affect us and how they influence our spiritual condition. The Apostle Paul writes: “All things are lawful (allowed) for me, but all things are not helpful; all things are lawful (allowed) for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” (1 Corinthians 6:12)

The question of music is more important than many people are willing to admit. For some reason, it often provokes strong emotional reactions, even though it is not directly related to the core doctrines of the Christian faith.

There was a time when I believed that music did not matter very much. But imagine even the most harmless film without any musical background—it would feel dull and lifeless. We must honestly admit that music plays a significant role in shaping emotions. A single scene can bring tears or joy largely because of the music that accompanies it.

Some might object and say, “But you are not a music expert. How can you discuss this topic from a theological perspective?” That is a fair question. However, Scripture tells us: “He who is spiritual judges all things.” (1 Corinthians 2:15) Does “all things” include music? Without a doubt.

As followers and disciples of Christ, we are called to think carefully about our choices—including music. Every day we make decisions without being experts in every field of life. The Apostle Paul was never married, yet he gave clear and wise instructions about married life. Despite this, he had countless spiritual “children,” for he possessed a wealth of experience and insight gained through his walk with the Lord. God does not require us to have advanced degrees in order to follow His will. What we do need is the guidance of His Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

There is another important point worth noting. In the world of science, people often examine the same facts yet arrive at completely different conclusions. An evolutionist may see randomness, while a creationist sees the hand of the Creator. The same pattern appears in the world of music. Some professional musicians accept nearly every genre without concern, while others—based on scientific research—warn about the potential psychological, physical, or emotional dangers of certain musical styles.

Just as there are both liberal and conservative theologians, there are also different approaches among musicians. Many professionals value diversity in music, and that is understandable. However, music should not be evaluated solely by how it sounds or how popular it is. It must also be considered from medical, psychological, and spiritual perspectives.

This brings us to a simple but important question: How should a Christian relate to music? And can certain musical styles pose a danger—not only emotionally, or even physically, but also spiritually?

Scientific Evidence

To support my final conclusions about music, we must first turn our attention to the scientific evidence available to us. This helps us approach the subject with confidence and honesty, knowing that our conclusions are not shaped by liberal or conservative Christian opinions, but grounded in well-established scientific research and discoveries.

A number of researchers—including Dr. John Diamond, a physician and specialist in psychosomatic medicine—have pointed out that loud, rhythm-driven music can induce altered states of consciousness. In some respects, these states resemble the effects of alcohol or drugs, and with prolonged exposure may even lead to dependency. (See, for example: John Diamond, Your Body Doesn’t Lie (New York: Warner Books, 1979), as well as his lectures and publications on the influence of rhythm and loud music on the human psychophysiological state.)

As far back as antiquity, the great ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle emphasized the special role of music in human life. He noted that music influences not only emotions, but also the formation of character and moral disposition (Aristotle, Politics, Book VIII, 1340a–1340b). This insight is supported by modern scientific research. Neurobiologists observe that music can deeply affect brain function and alter a person’s state of consciousness. Neurologist Oliver Sacks wrote:

“Music can seize us completely, altering our mood, our state of consciousness, and even our sense of personal identity” (Oliver Sacks, Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain (New York: Knopf, 2007)).

From a physiological perspective, such effects are not accidental. Repetitive and intense stimuli are capable of producing stable reactions in the nervous system. This phenomenon was described in detail by endocrinologist Hans Selye, the founder of stress theory, who defined stress as a universal response of the body to external influences (Hans Selye, The Stress of Life (New York: McGraw-Hill, 1956)). In this context, music characterized by strong rhythm, high volume, and emotional intensity can be viewed as a factor exerting long-term influence on a person’s psychophysiological state.

A cultural perspective further complements this understanding. Many philosophers have cautioned that entertainment is not simply a harmless way to pass the time. When it is taken in without discernment, it can quietly shape a person’s thinking and worldview—often without the person even being aware of it. Philosopher and cultural critic Neil Postman expressed this idea succinctly:

“People will not be oppressed by what they are forbidden to think, but by what they are permitted to think about” (Neil Postman, Amusing Ourselves to Death (New York: Penguin Books, 1985)).

Taken together, these perspectives show that music is not a neutral background. It is a powerful instrument capable of shaping a person’s inner world, thinking, and spiritual condition.

At one point, reflecting on the influence of music on my own life, I asked God to show me whether music truly affects me spiritually. Interestingly, the answer came through a secular documentary film that I happened to come across. This discussion focuses on research conducted by secular scholars, which removes preconceived bias—whether conservative or liberal Christian viewpoints.

One of the most widely known researchers in this area is the Japanese scientist Masaru Emoto. He conducted a series of visual experiments with water, studying how various influences affected the shape of ice crystals after freezing. One of the best-known aspects of his work involved water’s response to different musical genres. In these experiments, water was placed near speakers playing music at volumes typical for human hearing, then frozen and photographed.

Emoto and his team observed that classical music—such as Mozart’s Symphony No. 40, Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, or Chopin’s études—led to the formation of beautiful, clear, and harmonious crystalline structures. The crystals formed under the influence of these compositions appeared balanced, symmetrical, and aesthetically pleasing, reflecting the beneficial effect of harmonious vibrations on the structure of water.

Other musical genres produced noticeably different results. For example, heavy rock and metal music—characterized by harsh rhythms and aggressive sounds—were observed to produce deformed, fragmented, or disordered crystals. These results contrasted sharply with those produced by classical music.

In some descriptions of the experiments, other genres such as folk music or jazz were also mentioned. While the crystal formations differed in detail, they often retained a sense of harmony and visual appeal. Different melodies and rhythms produced distinct crystal patterns, as if reflecting the “energy” of the sound itself.

Rap, hip-hop, and contemporary pop music were also examined. In these cases, the water formed less structured, fragmented, or visually “broken” crystals. These results reflected sharper rhythms, dissonant sounds, and high-intensity musical stimulation. Compared to classical music, these styles produced noticeably rougher crystal formations.

Based on this extensive visual research, Emoto emphasized that music rich in harmony, clear melody, and expressive depth—particularly classical works by great composers—had a distinctly positive and “strengthening” influence on the structure of water, promoting the formation of clear and symmetrical crystals.

Although these experiments were conducted with water under laboratory conditions, they serve as a vivid illustration of how sound and vibration can influence material and psycho-emotional processes in living organisms. This observation is especially striking given that the human body consists of approximately 70–75 percent water. Just as water responds to harmony and rhythm, the human psyche and body respond to musical vibrations, rhythms, and harmonies. This makes the conscious choice of one’s musical environment important for emotional and spiritual well-being.

In popular discussions examining the effects of loud, synthesized music, such music is sometimes compared to alcohol or drugs. This comparison does not suggest a chemical effect, but rather the potential for dependency and altered states of consciousness. The danger lies not in sound “poisoning” the body, but in creating a reliance on constant emotional stimulation, weakening inner stability, and intensifying emotional reactions. Since the human body is largely composed of water, these vibrations directly affect the nervous system, amplifying their impact on mood and well-being. Sound waves therefore influence not only water, but also the nervous system, the psyche, and even brain cells.

Modern research clearly demonstrates that music directly affects human psychology and behavior in a wide range of environments—from nightclubs to concert halls and public spaces.

Neurobiologist and cognitive psychologist Daniel Levitin, in his book This Is Your Brain on Music, explains in detail how rhythm, tempo, and volume influence attention, mood, and physiological responses. He notes that fast, loud music increases arousal, raises heart rate and cortisol levels, and can encourage impulsive behavior. By contrast, classical music with slower tempos, harmonic structure, and dynamic balance—such as that performed in symphony halls—promotes concentration, relaxation, and positive emotions (Levitin, This Is Your Brain on Music (New York: Dutton, 2006)).

Similar findings have been confirmed in psychological and educational research. Howard Gardner and his colleagues studied how different musical backgrounds influence the behavior of students, workers, and visitors. Their research showed that in loud, rhythm-driven environments such as clubs and discos, people tend to act more impulsively, make quicker decisions, and display a higher likelihood of conflict and risky behavior. Calm music, by contrast, reduces aggression and anxiety (Gardner et al., The Arts and Human Development: A Psychological Perspective).

Research by Robert Zator further supports these conclusions. Studying behavior on dance floors under different musical genres—techno, hip-hop, pop, and electronic music—he observed that loud, rhythmically intense music increases physical activity, emotional arousal, and the likelihood of impulsive or aggressive actions, especially among young people (Dance Floor Dynamics: Music and Behavior).

In addition, neuromarketing studies conducted by Stephen Casper demonstrate that music in public spaces—such as stores, restaurants, and clubs—directly influences human behavior. Tempo, volume, and musical style affect walking speed, decision-making, and overall activity levels. Aggressive and loud rhythms increase impulsivity, while calm music slows behavior, encourages reflection, and fosters emotional balance (Neuromarketing: Understanding Consumer Responses to Music in Public Spaces).

Taken together, these findings confirm that music is not a neutral background. It shapes mood, emotions, and behavior, and its influence can be either beneficial or harmful, depending on genre, tempo, volume, and context.

These observations highlight that music is not merely entertainment, but a force capable of influencing the human heart and mind. In that case, the issue concerns not only our physical and mental health, but also our spiritual state before God. And if this is truly so, we cannot afford to remain indifferent: we must approach the question of music thoughtfully, with sober and discerning judgment. Scripture teaches us: “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)

Recognizing that external influences shape our inner condition, we should therefore choose music that strengthens the soul, awakens noble emotions, and directs the heart toward God—rather than music that weakens the will, provokes excessive emotional stimulation, or leads to spiritual dullness. Music that uplifts, cultivates virtue, and helps focus the mind on God, His Word, and His teaching becomes a blessed instrument of spiritual growth. Musical forms that encourage excessive stimulation or inner dependence, however, call for discernment, wisdom, and careful consideration.

Music and Mental Health

If music affects our mental health, then it also touches our soul and spiritual life. That is why we must pause and reflect: how does it shape our thoughts, our emotions, and our inner state? We cannot ignore this matter, for its consequences run far deeper than they may first appear. We are called to approach this aspect of life with care and discernment, remembering that tending to our soul is ultimately about how we live before God and seek to honor Him in all we do. So, let us take a closer look at this question.

Music has a direct impact on the brain. It activates the limbic system—the area responsible for emotions, memory, and motivation. In this way, music influences mood, anxiety levels, focus, and emotional stability. It can either calm us or overstimulate us.

Research shows that certain types of music can reduce stress and cortisol levels, help with anxiety disorders, ease symptoms of depression, improve sleep, aid in recovery, and stabilize emotions. Particularly beneficial are classical music, slow and harmonious compositions, calm instrumental pieces, as well as spiritual and contemplative music that encourages deep reflection. This is why music therapy is used in clinical practice and rehabilitation.

Classical music, in particular, not only positively affects the body but is even employed in therapy in some cases. For example, Mozart’s works are known to aid in the treatment of certain mental disorders—a phenomenon often called the “Mozart Effect.” Of course, not all classical music is perfect or inherently beneficial. Some composers wrote under the influence of questionable spiritual forces, which is a topic that deserves separate attention.

It is important to note that many classical composers dedicated their works to Jesus Christ, approaching their art with reverence and a conscious awareness of God’s greatness. Their music is not just beautiful sound—it reflects a desire to glorify the Creator through art. Such composers include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, Ludwig van Beethoven, Antonio Vivaldi, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and others.

At the same time, under certain conditions, music can increase anxiety, heighten aggression or irritability, cause emotional exhaustion, foster dependence on strong stimulation, and intensify depressive or destructive thoughts. This is most often linked to excessive volume, constant rhythmic pressure, aggressive or dark lyrics, and prolonged listening without breaks.

The Bible also makes it clear that sound and music affect a person’s inner state and, therefore, can influence their spiritual life. As we read: “…the Spirit of the Lord had departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him. Then Saul’s servants said to him, ‘Here now, an evil spirit from God is troubling you. Let our lord now command your servants, who are before you, to seek out a man who is skillful in playing the harp, and it shall be that when the evil spirit from God is upon you, he will play with his hand, and you shall be well.’ And Saul said to his servants, ‘Provide me now a man who can play well, and bring him to me.’ Then one of the servants answered and said, ‘Look, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and the Lord is with him.’ … So it was, when the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took a harp and played with his hand; so Saul was refreshed and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.” (1 Sam. 16:14–18, 23)

Here, we clearly see that music influences a person’s emotional and mental state—it can be both calming and restorative. If Saul’s servants understood this more than 3,000 years ago, why do we still see questions and disagreements about it in Christian circles today?

Humans are a unified being, composed of spirit, soul, and body (1 Thess. 5:23). As we see, music affects the nervous system, emotional responses, and the ability to reflect and commune with God in prayer—it touches all three aspects of human nature. What directly impacts the psyche inevitably affects spiritual life as well.

Some psychologists compare the effect of intense music to caffeine or alcohol—not chemically, but in terms of habituation: a person requires stronger and stronger stimuli to experience the same emotions. As a result, a Christian can become addicted to musical excitement rather than the work of the Spirit of God. Scripture describes such people as “sensual, not having the Spirit” (Jude 1:19).

If music pulls us away from inner peace, robs us of silence for reflection, interferes with prayer, or amplifies fleshly or chaotic emotions, our spiritual life will not bear fruit. It obscures the light of truth that we are called to meditate upon. This is why music is not merely a matter of taste but a matter of discernment and spiritual wisdom.

Music is a powerful instrument: it can heal or destabilize the mind. That is why it is crucial to consider not only what we listen to but also how it affects our heart, mind, and inner state. The Bible teaches us to discern the fruits of our actions. Therefore, when choosing musical genres, we should honestly ask ourselves: do they draw us closer to God, strengthen the mind and heart, and help us maintain spiritual sobriety? A Christian is called to approach music consciously, soberly, and prayerfully.

Some things may appear harmless at first glance but can have a profound and destructive effect in combination. Have you noticed how little people reflect today? It is no surprise—we surround ourselves with noise from all sides: music in the car, constant TV at home, the hum of equipment at work, or endless keyboard clicks.

How can one deeply reflect, seek God, or evaluate life wisely when the mind is never at rest? Noise functions much like alcohol or drugs: it does not solve problems but only suppresses the sense of reality, creating an illusion of emotional satisfaction. Yet the root problem remains.

We are already seeing the consequences. More and more people, including children, fall into depression, lose a sense of purpose, and face suicidal thoughts. How do they fill their time? With video games and social media that present a world of violence, cruelty, sexual immorality, and darkness—rather than reflection, prayer, meaningful work, or genuine human interaction.

Spiritual Influence

Since we have seen that music inevitably affects our mental and emotional state, and therefore our spiritual life as well, it is worth pausing to reflect more deeply. Let us turn to Scripture and see how this influence unfolds.

First, it is worth considering why, in the church, we regard alcoholism or drug abuse as sin. After all, these things are not explicitly named as sins anywhere in the Bible. The reason is simple: they destroy our health and can lead to premature death. On top of that, they steal our time with God and our opportunity to know Him more deeply, becoming objects of our attention and even worship—and in turn, leading us into idolatry.

Ecclesiastes 7:17 says, “Do not be overly wicked, nor be foolish: Why should you die before your time?” This tells us clearly that a person can die “before his time.” Every act of rebellion against God’s will reveals human pride. If scientific research shows that music can negatively affect the human body—including mental and psychological health—then we should not approach this issue lightly or foolishly, as Scripture warns us.

This leads to an honest question: are we being hypocritical when we forbid smoking, drugs, and alcohol, yet ignore music that has a harmful influence?

Second, the goal of every follower of Christ is to become more like Him—to cultivate the character of our Lord. Scripture says, “But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil” (Hebrews 5:14).

Do you see how important the condition of our senses is? Our senses are directly connected to our nervous system and, therefore, to our spiritual condition. According to this passage, our senses are trained, exercised, and developed through constant practice. What is training or exercising your senses today? What are you allowing them to become accustomed to? Do you think our senses are affected by music? Music directly engages our emotional perception, which means it powerfully influences the formation of our spiritual personality.

There are well-known bestsellers, frequently discussed by The New York Times, that examine the effects of music on the brain and cognitive processes. For example, the abovementioned book This Is Your Brain on Music by neuroscientist Daniel Levitin—long listed among NYT bestsellers—explores how music affects the brain, perception, and thinking. It shows that music shapes emotional and cognitive responses and influences mood and memory. In other words, music helps determine how you think and ultimately shapes your worldview.

Television strongly influences how people think and behave. Yet many researchers and commentators note that music has an even deeper impact on emotions, the psyche, and the inner world of a person, making it a powerful force in shaping character and perception of reality. Compared to music, television often plays a lesser role in character formation. If the world clearly understands this influence, how much more attention should we, as believers, give to it?

When it comes to behavior, I can point to personal experience. While studying at a university in the Faculty of Foreign Languages, I could almost always tell which students were studying English, French, or German. Students of English tended to look modern and “cool.” Those studying French appeared refined and glamorous, and their behavior emphasized elegance. Students of German were more reserved, expressed fewer emotions, and dressed more formally.

The same can be said of people with specific musical preferences. A person’s behavior, style, and appearance are often influenced by the genre of music they listen to—whether rock, rap, hip-hop, jazz, or others. Music shapes a person not only inwardly but outwardly as well.

You might say, “But what does my outward appearance have to do with anything? Isn’t it more important to Jesus what’s in my heart?” Of course, the heart is what matters most. Yet we must acknowledge that our outward condition reflects what is going on inside, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34).

When Christ rebuked the Pharisees for focusing on outward appearances, He said, “…first clean the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may also be clean” (Matthew 23:26). Notice how the Lord does not disregard the outward at all, but He places the greatest importance on the inner life. And when the heart is truly purified, the outward naturally reflects that, for a tree is known by its fruit.

What does the Bible say about our feelings and our way of thinking? “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5). The Greek word translated here as “mind” means to think, to reason, to reflect—to think the way Christ thinks.

What kind of emotions and behavior are stirred in us by genres such as rock, pop, hip-hop, or rap? Do traits like self-admiration, irritation, anger, arrogance, pride, and self-importance emerge—attitudes such as “I’m cool, I’m impressive”? It is clear that music inevitably influences our behavior.

This is why it is not surprising that those who are devoted to certain genres often behave accordingly. The same applies to so-called “Christian” songs. In many of them, the focus subtly shifts from God to the individual. This echoes the voice of the ancient serpent from the Garden of Eden, which still speaks today: “For God knows that in the day you eat of it (the forbidden fruit) your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God” (Genesis 3:5). Man becomes his own god, with excessive attention placed on the self.

One only needs to walk into a Christian bookstore and look at the album covers of various artists and bands to notice this: often it is not God being glorified, but the person. Have you noticed how frequently phrases like “You need to realize yourself” or “Believe in yourself” are heard today in ministry contexts? This direction is entirely different from the one to which the Lord calls us.

Instead of self-realization, a believer is called to become less so that Christ may increase. As John the Baptist said, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30,). A true servant—and every follower of Christ—is called to point to Jesus, not to personal gifts, creativity, or talents. Christ alone must be the center of life and attention. Therefore, if we truly desire to develop the character of Christ, we cannot afford to treat music superficially.

Third, the Lord teaches us through the Apostle Paul: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:2).

We are not called to copy the image of this age—this world—but to be transformed by the renewal of our minds, meaning a change in how we think. Music is undeniably one of the most powerful tools influencing the human mind. It shapes not only how we think, but consequently how we behave.

We could ask a simple question and end the discussion here, yet it is important to explore this issue fully. So consider this: can you imagine an angel, greeting those who enter Heaven with a bass guitar in hand, leading them into the Heavenly City to the sounds of rock, pop, or rap music? It is difficult to imagine, isn’t it? That is the image of this world, not the image of God. Our understanding of God must align with what the Bible reveals about Him. In Scripture, He discloses His nature, His character, and what is pleasing or displeasing to Him. Our thinking must be shaped by His Word, not by the world.

We often forget to ask an old but essential question: “What would Christ do? Would He listen to this? Would He approve of it if He were living on earth today?”

Fourth, the music industry offers examples of bands and artists who worked for years on the Christian scene, yet whose personal faith later changed, drifted away from Christian convictions, or was never truly present. For instance, the band Underoath, long considered a Christian group, later rejected that identity, and one of its members admitted that his experience in the Christian environment was destructive to his faith and life (Wikipedia). We cannot know his true motives, but sadly, this experience only pushed him further from God—partly due to the naïveté and lack of discernment among some Christians.

Similarly, the leader of the metal band As I Lay Dying openly stated at one point that he no longer believed in God, despite the band’s long-standing Christian image (Wikipedia). Other well-known artists and groups, such as P.O.D., as well as Marty Sampson, a songwriter associated with Hillsong, have publicly admitted at certain stages of their careers that their personal faith did not match their “Christian” image and that they lost trust in the church and Christian teaching (instructandgrow.com).

These examples show that commercial success within the Christian music industry does not necessarily reflect a genuine spiritual condition. Tragically, many ultimately come to view “Christianity” as hypocrisy. We must be discerning in all things. And this raises a serious question: how can we spiritually feed on the work of those who have never truly known or experienced saving faith in Christ? After all, their theology and view of God shape our very spirit. The result is a warped understanding of God and His teachings—a distortion that ultimately paves the way to idolatry.

What Does the Bible Say About Music?

You may ask, “What about the biblical passages that call us to praise God with all kinds of instruments?” The most vivid example is Psalm 150. While the Bible does not explicitly command the use of every instrument, this psalm lists various musical tools—trumpet, lyre, harp, tambourine, stringed instruments, pipe, and cymbals—and directly instructs us to praise God with them.

First, it is worth considering: do you really think that after the Fall of man, absolutely everything on earth was cursed by sin—except music? Did the devil leave music untouched?

Moreover, some theologians suggest that Lucifer had a special role related to musical service, based on this Scripture: “You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone was your covering: sardius, topaz, and diamond, beryl, onyx, and jasper, sapphire, turquoise, and emerald, with gold; the workmanship of your timbrels and pipes was prepared for you on the day you were created.” (Ezekiel 28:13)

The phrase “the workmanship of your timbrels and pipes” is complex in the original language, and translations vary. The King James Version renders it as “the workmanship of your tabrets and pipes was prepared in you on the day you were created,” clearly associating Lucifer with musical instruments.

This passage suggests that Lucifer had a connection to music. We see in Scripture that angels in heaven continually praise God. And since Lucifer was described as “the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty” (Ezekiel 28:12), and said in his proud heart, “I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God” (Isaiah 14:13,), we can conclude that he held a very high position among the angels—so high that even Michael did not dare bring against him a reviling accusation (Jude 1:9). It is reasonable to assume that he may have led the heavenly choir.

This raises another logical question: could someone who was intimately connected to heavenly music fail to distort its earthly purpose? Is he not the most cunning of all? Music is undeniably important in society, and especially influential among young people. Would the devil have missed the opportunity to use music as one of his tools?

Many liberal-minded Christians believe that conservative believers oppose drums—but this is not entirely accurate. In symphony orchestras, drums are often used harmoniously to support Christian hymns or other sacred works. Drums are even used in military parades. Yet this is very different from how drums are played in highly rhythmic modern music—the style, energy, and behavior of performers are noticeably different.

Take the example of a knife. By itself, it is neither good nor bad. A knife can cut bread to feed the hungry, or it can be used to take a life. Yet it is the same knife.

The same principle applies to musical instruments. Their impact depends on how they are used. Do they serve good or evil? The Bible does not forbid acoustic instruments. Scripture speaks of instruments producing natural, unaltered sound—not synthetic, artificial sounds, which can negatively affect both physical and spiritual health.

So, if Lucifer once led the heavenly choir and later became an enemy of God, corrupting everything good the Lord created, is it naive to think that he left music untouched?

Increasingly, churches are moving toward a modern style of “worship.” On the surface, this may seem harmless, but the fruit often tells another story.

Once, when I was a young minister, a seasoned preacher gave me this advice: “When an issue is controversial, the only way to determine if something is spiritually beneficial is to examine its fruit.” Therefore, we must pay attention to the fruit produced by different musical styles—the fruit revealed in our behavior, attitudes, and thought patterns.

Music in the Church

Let us reflect honestly: under what circumstances, and for what purpose, is destructive synthesized music used? It seems its goal is to bring the church closer to the world (rather than closer to God). Yet in many cases, the image of the world overshadows—or even replaces—the image of Christ.

When the true power of the Holy Spirit is absent, spiritual leaders often resort to fleshly methods. And fleshly methods produce fleshly Christians. Music is a powerful tool that can hold people temporarily, but not permanently—only the Spirit of God can do that.

Music is one of the strongest tools for influencing people. We must acknowledge that music is a form of communication. It has its own language. It can not only touch the emotions but can also manipulate them, evoking specific feelings. Have you noticed that in many of these “churches,” prayer is almost always accompanied by background music? Why is that? Are you seeking the true work of the Holy Spirit, or merely an artificial emotional experience created by music?

History shows that spiritual music, like education—which in Europe was largely pioneered by the Church—had a profound influence on the world. But if we look at modern churches, can we confidently say that the Church today shapes the world, rather than the world shaping the Church? Christian culture was originally intended to transform the world, not conform to it.

Once, in England, I received a church flyer that listed what kind of music to expect—as if this were the central element of the service. I have also seen similar information on church websites. So-called “praise and worship nights” have become extremely popular events.

We also notice that music often takes more time than preaching God’s Word. But how did it look in the early apostolic church? Scripture tells us that the apostles and believers “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). Teaching and preaching God’s Word were the main focus of their gatherings. If we want to emulate the early church, shouldn’t we focus on the most important aspects of ministry?

I remember when I was a young leader of a youth group in a more liberal environment. I noticed what really attracted young people in those churches. A simple experiment shows this: if you organize a Bible study for youth, very few attend. But the moment a praise and worship night is announced, attendance immediately grows.

This example shows that music often displaces God’s Word. So the crucial question is: what are you seeking—the living God or entertainment? To know God, or to please yourself? Those who truly love God and desire to know Him will inevitably hunger to study and explore Scripture.

When a church lacks the true work of the Holy Spirit, there arises a need to replace His presence with something false—an artificially created atmosphere of “spiritual power.” Some ministers do this consciously; others do it unconsciously, yet all feel the need for such accompaniment.

It is easy to determine what your heart truly desires: simply announce a service without musical accompaniment—especially if it is a meeting for in-depth study of God’s Word or prayer. Such a service will seem boring to those whose hearts are not hungry for God, but are instead seeking emotional experiences that feed the flesh, not the spirit.

If people are seeking sensations rather than truth, a musical atmosphere becomes fertile ground for a religious experience that is often mistaken for spiritual. It may be artificially created and mistaken for the genuine work of God—or, far worse, it may open the door to the influence of dark spiritual forces. It is no coincidence that in many pagan rituals, rhythmic music is used to summon spirits or induce trance states.

Words and music are both important. But which should prevail? If loud music is playing, even with good lyrics, can the words be clearly heard and meditated upon?

Modern churches often place great emphasis on music. When it comes to preaching and teaching God’s Word, we make excuses: attention spans today are short—only 10–15 minutes—so sermons must be brief. Yet Christ’s example shows otherwise: He sometimes taught and preached the entire day. Does the Creator not know how long human attention can hold?

The matter is not about science or attention spans. It depends entirely on what the heart truly desires. Consider this: we spend hours scrolling social media, watching movies, or playing video games without asking how it affects our attention. Does it really last only 10–15 minutes? Most of our lives pass unproductively. This is why there is often little time left to serve God, love others, fellowship with brothers and sisters, and develop spiritual relationships. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled” (Matthew 5:6). What does your heart hunger for? Do you thirst for God’s righteousness? Are you poor in spirit?

Christians and Secular Music

When it comes to music, the line between music devoted to Christ and secular music is often blurred. Everything becomes so mixed together that the difference is no longer clear. At times, it can even be difficult to distinguish a church service from a secular event. It is not uncommon to hear young people ask, “What’s wrong with listening to music by secular artists?” But is that question really as harmless as it sounds? Let us pause and reflect on this more carefully.

Today’s pop stars often become heroes and idols for young people—figures they eagerly want to imitate. When these idols behave boldly, display aggression, strength, or violence, and when many songs and music videos contain explicit sexual content, they cannot serve as good examples for 12- or 13-year-old children. And exposure to this requires no special effort—just a smartphone, computer, or music television. Children see men and women acting sexually, demonstrating elements of sadism, perversion, and violence.

One study found that over 50% of music videos on MTV contain scenes of violence and sexual innuendo. A constant stream of this kind of content inevitably pollutes the minds of teenagers, even those raised in moral and stable families.

What does such music lead to? Because it lacks the constructive and moral themes found in Christian songs, it fosters aggression, moral decay, distorted attitudes toward women, and, as a result, serious social problems—including a rise in self-destructive behavior among youth. This directly impacts the next generation.

In the United States, there have been judicial attempts to curb this moral decline, restricting certain musical groups or limiting the sale of their albums in some states—Florida being particularly active. Yet mainstream media condemned these decisions, accusing judges of violating freedom of speech under the First Amendment and labeling them “right-wing fundamentalists.” What was often ignored was the content of the lyrics themselves. They were neither read nor publicly analyzed. Why? Because many adults would have been outraged and demanded the material be removed.

As a result, obscene language, prohibited in print, radio, and television, became perfectly acceptable in popular songs. In films and music, crude and degrading terms referring to male and female genitals, oral sex, promiscuity, and language that demeans women are used repeatedly.

Listening to such music undermines a person’s emotional and moral health. It shapes attitudes, relationships, and behavioral patterns. Lyrics that people hear dozens of times easily become imprinted on the mind. For a long time, there were virtually no serious restrictions preventing children from purchasing these albums. This steadily erodes the moral framework of modern civilization. The decay spreads through the internet, radio, television, and the film industry, and the damage is difficult to measure.

At a minimum, music albums and videos should follow the same age-rating systems applied to films, helping parents protect children from inappropriate content. Radio stations should also avoid broadcasting music that demeans people based on race or encourages violence or the exploitation of women.

We live in times described in Scripture regarding Lot: “…who was distressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked” (2 Peter 2:7).

What about songs that, at first glance, seem to have good music and good lyrics? Even then, we must clearly understand that because the world is under the rule of the deceptive prince of darkness, words and music can appear harmless. Yet in reality, they often carry human wisdom that inevitably distorts the truth of God. Again, it comes down to what your heart truly desires: God or the things of the world.

For example, when we look at modern romance novels, a young man—or more often a young woman—begins to form expectations of “love” as defined by this world. This kind of “love” is centered primarily on what I can get, rather than on what I can give. But this is not the kind of love the Lord teaches us.

The world cannot give the selfless, sacrificial love that only Jesus Christ can give, nor can it teach us such love. Christian love, however, surpasses understanding, because it is able even to love an enemy and to respond to evil with good. The Bible says: “Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.” (Romans 5:5), so that we “may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:18–19) Such love can come only from the Holy Spirit, and that is why it surpasses all human understanding.

Whose love do we trust more—God’s love or human love? And how can anyone reject the love that is perfectly revealed and expressed in Him? “And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him.” (1 John 4:16)

Some try not only to shame us but also to instill a sense of guilt, claiming that no one should teach others how to live. Yet it is the responsibility of all social institutions—from government to schools—to uphold moral values and encourage citizens to live rightly by setting a worthy example. The authority of family and parents must be restored. Churches, neighbors, and volunteer organizations must once again take an active role.

Just 60 years ago in America, young people were encouraged to explore folk music and classical composers—from Bach to Mozart. Christian hymns were included in textbooks, and children were taught to love God as the Father of all humanity.

We should not blindly trust secular music, for it carries the spirit of the world. Scripture warns: “…Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:4).

Christian Heritage

When discussing the topic of music, I also want to highlight the collection of spiritual songs and hymns found in hymnbooks, which has become a cherished treasure for many evangelical Christians. It must be acknowledged that not every hymn reflects sound teaching of Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, there is a common myth that this collection is merely a relic of old-fashioned fundamentalists who once suffered for their faith. In reality, this is not true—most of these hymns have been sung for centuries and continue to inspire believers today.

Spiritual and hymn music is distinguished by theologically rich texts, directed primarily toward God rather than simply aiming to stir emotions. Its musical form is moderate and restrained. Such music strengthens faith, helps believers spend time in heartfelt prayer with the Lord, and shapes a proper understanding of God through a variety of themes rather than through one-sided emotional emphasis. Unlike many modern “Christian” songs, which often focus on personal feelings, inner states, or subjective experiences of worship, hymns cover a broad range of spiritual topics: joy and suffering, comfort and correction, hope and repentance, God’s faithfulness and human responsibility. These hymns paint a holistic and biblical picture of God, rather than limiting themselves to a single emotional tone.

The Apostle Paul teaches this clearly in Colossians 3:16: “…teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” Here, the emphasis is on teaching and admonishing, not merely on stirring feelings.

Do not misunderstand me. The question is not whether we should reject all contemporary music, but rather the quality of the music and its impact on us—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Do modern songs contain sound teaching of Christ? Do they cover diverse themes, or are they limited to a single type of “joy” and emotional excitement? Today, many songs are monotonous: they focus only on what God has given me, healed me, forgiven me, or brought me joy. All attention shifts to the individual, not God, and the lyrics are often superficial.

God desires to hear congregations of believers sing to Him. I want to hear, discern the words, and praise the Lord with my fellow believers from the heart. Yet, I fear that in many contemporary churches, I cannot even hear myself over the loud, high-volume music. It feels more like attending a concert or a nightclub than focusing on the Love of my soul. We need churches where the gathering of believers sings together and focuses on the lyrics that admonish and instruct us. That kind of worship produces spiritual fruit in the mind, not merely carnal excitement.

Personally, I value modern songs where words and music harmonize and encourage deep reflection. But in churches where the music is too loud, I sometimes get a headache. Now imagine how the elderly feel in such situations!

We must unite in praise with one soul and one spirit, regardless of age—from the youngest to the oldest. Where personal interests dominate, true love and unity are absent.

Moreover, let us consider how God views the relationship between generations. In the book of the prophet Malachi, foretelling the coming of John the Baptist, the Lord describes his ministry this way: "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the earth with a curse" (Malachi 4:5-6).

According to this Scripture, the Lord brings generations together—He does not divide them. Remember the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the earth—what happened then? The Bible tells us: “All who believed were together, and had all things in common. ... And they continued daily with one accord in the temple, breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people.” (Acts 2:44, 46-47)

Thus, all the believers—from the youngest to the oldest—were of one heart and mind, not divided. Wherever the true Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, is present, generations are inevitably united. What binds them together is their shared faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the condition of spiritual maturity and soundness.

Churches need to teach believers to value their heritage rather than reject it. Yet, for some reason, in the 21st century many churches try to completely abandon the hymns of the past—a practice that had not occurred for centuries.

At the same time, it is possible to instill in children and youth a love for Christian heritage if they are taught from an early age. Do not treat this lightly. Then they can sing hymns from different generations with love, including modern works that combine quality music with deep, meaningful lyrics. Alas, today it is increasingly rare to find songs of good quality with admonishing lyrics.

Very often, we imitate the culture around us by conforming to the world. We must remember that we live in a Christian culture—the culture of Christ—which transcends national boundaries. Unfortunately, many churches today tend to adopt the worst aspects of contemporary culture—action movies, subcultures, music, slang—while courtesy, good manners, and refined behavior are often embraced only reluctantly.

There is a growing trend among churches to shift toward “contemporary” music, often justified by the claim that all churches do it. But this is simply not true. Many American churches continue to uphold reverence and honor toward God without compromising with the world. Why not seek out and learn from such congregations?

Music, no matter how skillfully performed, cannot give what only God can give. Without Him, a person lacks true peace, rest, and joy. These gifts come only to those who genuinely seek Him, for whom He becomes a reality, not merely a beautiful religious image.

In reality, many so-called “Christians” create only the appearance of God’s presence—they draw near with their lips, while their hearts remain far from Him (Matt. 15:8). But it seems that when they lack the power of the Holy Spirit, they try to make it appear as if they have it—until they end up faking it. The matter is about true relationship with the Lord, living faith, not external religiosity.

Conclusion

So, where should we draw the line? Or perhaps a better question is: do we draw one at all? Of course, this isn’t about measuring volume in decibels or turning it into law. Everything depends on our spiritual condition—on how sensitive we are to the voice of the Holy Spirit, who guides us in recognizing what may harm our intimate relationship with God. The Spirit of Truth will always lead us into all truth, and that truth is always confirmed by the Word of God.

Once again, I would like to remind you of what the Apostle Paul said, “Test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thess. 5:21). Does this apply to music as well, or is it an area where we simply follow our personal taste? If we are to test all things, does that mean literally all things, or only certain aspects of our lives? Can we trust our fallen, sinful nature to decide what seems pleasant and acceptable? How can we even trust our personal tastes and preferences, which have been distorted by our sinful nature since the Fall of Man? We cannot rely on what merely seems right to us. Instead, we must earnestly seek God’s will in this matter, asking Him to guide our hearts, minds, and decisions according to His truth. Perhaps a better question is: “Lord, is this pleasing to You?”

Let us seek living, personal relationships with God, rather than settling for what merely appears spiritual but, in the light of eternity, has no lasting value.

If many modern musical genres damage our physical and mental health, influence behavior, and shape character—and thus touch our spiritual nature—then we must make the right choice. Remember, the devil is cunning, often goes unnoticed, and skillfully finds his way into the human heart. As Scripture says, he was “more subtle than any beast of the field” (Gen. 3:1).

Come to Jesus with this question today. He will joyfully guide you along the path of truth. Do not stop at teachings, preachers, or church services—go directly to Christ, the living Lord and Counselor. Seek His guidance with all your heart and soul. Think of Him. Meditate on Him. Honor Him, for He is the Son of the Most High. Trust Him in this matter, and let Him show you the path He desires for you to follow.

May the Lord bless you!

In Christ,
Max Volkov