Is it okay for Christians to listen to secular music?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

We know that what we let into our mind will have an influence on how we think, talk, act, and feel. This includes our music choices. The Bible nowhere tells us to only listen to a certain kind of music or only music that specifically worships God. There are talented musicians in every genre of music who endeavor to reflect and worship God even if they don't do it overtly. Music is often a display of the beauty and creativity of God. There is much to appreciate in a diverse range of musical styles and types. At the same time, not everything is beneficial. Clearly some music is composed and performed explicitly to glorify ungodly things. This music should be avoided. Other music is written with a stated purpose of glorifying God, but is biblically unsound. We need to be careful to ensure our minds are shaped by the truth of God's Word (Romans 12:1–2) and be aware of things that sound good but aren't quite right (Galatians 1:6–9; 1 Timothy 4:1–5; 2 Timothy 3:5).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• After the exodus, Moses and the people sang a song (Exodus 15:1–18), and "Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a tambourine in her hand, and all the women went out after her with tambourines and dancing. And Miriam sang to them: 'Sing to the LORD, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea'" (Exodus 15:20–21).
• Many of the psalms are accompanied by music (Psalms 4:1; 6:1; 54:1; 55:1; 61:1; 67:1; 76:1).
• David set aside certain of the Levites to serve as temple musicians (1 Chronicles 6:31; 25:6). They were to "play loudly on musical instruments, on harps and lyres and cymbals, to raise sounds of joy" (1 Chronicles 15:16). Some also "prophesied with lyres, with harps, and with cymbals" (1 Chronicles 25:1).
• Other purposes of music in the Bible include to soothe the tormented (1 Samuel 16:14–23), to celebrate victory (1 Samuel 18:7), to warn of danger (Nehemiah 4:20), and to surprise enemies (Judges 7:16–22).
• The Bible mentions several string and wind instruments as well as percussion instruments (Psalm 68:25; Ezra 3:10).

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• The Bible tells us to think on things that are true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise (Philippians 4:8).
• Colossians 3:2 tells us to "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth."
• Second Corinthians 10:5 instructs us to "take every thought captive to obey Christ."
• Paul tells us to address "one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Ephesians 5:19–20).
• These verses give us helpful guidance in our intentions and thoughts in general, and can be applied to our music choices. Consider the purpose of the music you are listening to and whether your intentions in listening, and how the music affects you, line up with God's purposes for you.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

When considering whether it's appropriate for Christians to listen to secular music, the key lies in discernment and intentionality. Music profoundly impacts our thoughts, emotions, and actions, shaping our worldview and spiritual life. While the Bible doesn't prescribe or exclude a specific genre or style of music, it exhorts us to fill our minds with what is true, honorable, and pleasing to God (Philippians 4:8). This principle should guide our music choices, prompting us to evaluate whether the lyrics and messages align with biblical values and edify our faith. Music that glorifies ungodly themes or contradicts biblical truths should be avoided (Galatians 1:6–9; 1 Timothy 4:1–5). Conversely, music that uplifts and inspires while resonating with God's truth can enhance our worship and spiritual growth. Ultimately, our music should reflect a heart committed to honoring God in all aspects of life, including the sounds and melodies that shape our daily existence.

UNDERSTAND

• The Bible does not specifically condone or condemn any musical genre, style, or instrument.
• Music was used to worship God as well as to soothe the tormented, warn of danger, surprise enemies, and greet others.
• Christians are urged to evaluate whether the content and impact of secular music align with biblical values and contribute positively to spiritual growth.

REFLECT

• How does the music you listen to influence your thoughts, emotions, and actions on a daily basis?
• Are you intentional about evaluating the content and messages of the music you consume in light of biblical principles?
• How can you ensure that your music choices align with your desire to honor God in all aspects of your life?

ENGAGE

• As we evaluate our music choices, here are some questions to ask ourselves: How does this music affect me? What impact does this music have on my view of God; does it point me to Him or away from Him? What impact does listening to this music have on the way I treat others; does it help me love them? How does listening to this music impact my witness for God? Does listening to this music cause others to stumble (Romans 14)? How is this music affecting my character? How is this music affecting my thoughts, words, and actions? If those questions can be answered in ways that honor God, then listen with gratitude to Him (Colossians 3:17)
• The Bible does not tell us that certain styles of music are good and others are bad. Neither does it give us guidance on what instruments are acceptable and which, if any, are prohibited. What is more important is the content of the music being played. Be discerning by listening to song lyrics and comparing it to God’s Word. If it glorifies sin or is not honoring to Him, you should not listen to it.
• How can music, both secular and faith-based, be used as a tool for expressing faith and worshiping God, even if its origins or intent may not align with Christian beliefs?