Expert: Messianic Rabbi Yochanan Levine - 10/26/2006

Question
Hello. I'm a Christian.

I was wondering about music. I'm not into it as much as I used to be (I've developed a taste for Christian music), but I still listen to piano music.

I enjoy a certain CD or two which have piano music on them. No singing, no other instruments as far as I can tell, just piano music. I happen to enjoy that kind of music.

Is this wrong? Some Bible teachers make it sound like all the music of the world is wrong. Only music which praises God is acceptable. I have no problem at all with praising God in music, but I can't see any problem with listening to a piano being played.

Please give me your best answer. I would also like to thank you for directing people to the Word of God, which is where life is.

God Bless you,
John

Answer
Hi John,

There's a fundamental difference of opinion here.

Romans 1:19 and 20 tells us that "Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath showed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse."

From this we learn I think that God's creation exists to declare his glory and grace to us all. As with nature, human beings have been endowed with certain gifts and talents. The skill and grace of an expert pianist, flutist, etc. declares the glory and beauty of God and his goodness to his creation. The same is true with paintings, sculptures and so on. If we have eyes to see, we can see the goodness of God everywhere.

Songs that are unloving or that defame God should certainly be avoided, but otherwise, I think we should celebrate the wonder and glory of God's gifts to us. As Paul said, 'I am persuaded by the Lord that nothing is unclean of itself, but for one who deems a thing unclean, to him it is unclean.' (I paraphrase here). What does your heart tell you? Enjoy God's  many gifts!