Rapidly, the modern church was recently hit with two popular leaders walking away from the Christian faith. Over the past 3-4 years we have regularly heard of prominent leaders stepping into territory that is not Christian, “turn[ing] back and no longer follow[ing] Jesus.” (John 6:66)
How do we reconcile the past good with their post-Christian status? As a worship leader, I’ve struggled with what to do. Do I simply throw out the anthology and repertoires of material because the songs are tied to a church that now preaches another gospel? Should I toss all songs written by apostates? What do I do with all their past songs? We have to start asking and analyzing biblically:
Do the songs help us think on the truth?
First, we should always be concerned with singing what is true. Sometimes, songwriters just need a dictionary to understand what words mean. At all times, we need biblical truth. God expects us to give our churches information that unites and grows believers in the truth (Ephesians 4:1-16). Paul points out the need for truth and the shipwreck we make of ourselves apart from truth (1 Timothy 1:19).
What is the truth? The information God has given us about himself: The Bible. There is truth outside the Bible, such as physics etc., but the true knowledge of God for life is the great gift of Scripture. The authority of truth, especially in our churches, is biblical truth.
Were our experiences real? It’s right to struggle with if God actually used a broken or unregenerate vessel for his own praise. We see instances of God producing his praise however he so wishes (Numbers 22-24). I think it’s biblical and ok to say songs of post-Christian individuals can be used. Sometimes God uses unconverted lips for his praise (eg. Balaam and Nebuchadnezzar).
Do the songs lead me to think on false things?
There’s value in reconsidering songs that are currently being released alongside false teaching. An example of this is a worship label that is attached to a church that teaches false Christianity. Also, it may be necessary to consider if a song by an apostate will hinder people in the congregation from focusing on God.
Grow past it. It is right that we overlook this muddy and sinful world to keep our eyes on Christ (Philippians 4:8; Hebrews 12:2). That may mean we use what is the “fruit of all that is good and right and true” while “discern[ing] what is pleasing to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:9-10).
Help people act in faith. Romans 14 reminds us that “whatever does not proceed from faith is sin.” That stings in a preferential world. However, if this issue is truly hindering people from treasuring Jesus and honoring him, then you need to take time to explain (helping them grow past it) and consider what is healthiest for a rich experience of worship in unity (which may require to not use a material from apostates).
Hymnals are filled with heretics. We often need reminding that we are not the first to experience this. Some we know ended up rejecting the true faith (Horatio Spafford, writer of It Is Well moved to Israel and joined a cult called the “American Colony”). For others we wonder about their wandering and never really know (Robert Robinson, author of Come Thou Fount has been considered unitarian by some historians and hymnologists). This should show us God’s kindness and providence to use songs for his glory in manners we think unconventional. It should humble those who know the blessing and mercy of Christ.
Concern yourself with two things
Pray that God would grant repentance (2 Timothy 2:25) to those who have abandoned the faith. They should have to rip away, not walk away. Pray for your own circle, that God would grow you in doctrine and give you power to persevere. Pray that he would humble us all under the truth of Scripture.
Positions are serious. When we give an opportunity for someone to lead at a conference, in a church, or a bible study, we need to be sure they know basic tenets of the Christian faith (2 Timothy 1:13, 2:15). Ask yourself: do I and those I let lead know what the gospel is? Can I explain the trinity? Can they explain the necessity of Christ’s death? Why is the Bible sufficient? What are a handful of God’s attributes? Additionally, are you and others confessing sin, seeing holiness prioritized, experiencing godliness in your life? I promise you will not be sorry for submitting yourself and others to the way of discipleship.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:7
