This is a complex issue that Christians should thoughtfully and prayerfully consider. There are several factors to weigh when determining if it is appropriate to use worship music from churches or groups that may hold some unbiblical teachings.
The Importance of Sound Doctrine
The Bible places great emphasis on the importance of sound doctrine and warns against false teachings. Passages such as 2 Timothy 4:3, Titus 1:9, and 1 Timothy 1:3 instruct church leaders to teach sound doctrine and refute false teachings. Christians are called to discern truth from error (1 John 4:1) and avoid teachings that go against Scripture (2 John 1:10).
Using worship music from a source that promotes serious doctrinal error could imply an endorsement of that error. Even if the songs themselves contain biblically sound lyrics, the association with the outside group could send a mixed message. Christians are cautioned against practices that might cause a weaker brother to stumble (1 Corinthians 8:9).
The Need for Biblical Discernment
At the same time, having differences on secondary doctrinal issues does not necessarily mean a church or group is promoting serious heresy. There are often disagreements among genuine believers on secondary matters such as spiritual gifts, end times views, baptism methods, or church government. The core truths of the gospel, such as the deity of Christ and salvation by grace, are what define orthodox biblical faith.
Therefore, discernment is needed to determine which doctrinal differences are secondary and which represent a serious deviation from biblical truth. There are mature, theologically sound Christian leaders within various denominations and theological camps. Not all differences represent a false gospel (Galatians 1:6-9).
The Issue of Separation vs. Engagement
Some Christians advocate strict separation from any groups that hold unbiblical doctrines, in order to avoid compromising truth by associating with error. However, other believers point out that Jesus ministered among sinners and even engaged with those who held unorthodox beliefs, like the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4). The letters to the seven churches in Revelation 2-3 address compromised churches but call for reform rather than abandonment.
Christians must exercise wisdom in balancing identification with compromised groups versus opportunities to minister within those groups. Using music from an errant church is not necessarily an endorsement. It may simply recognize God’s truth displayed in that portion of their ministry for his glory.
The Necessity of Personal Conviction
Because these issues are complex, a legalistic approach is unlikely to be helpful. lists of “approved” or “unapproved” music may place tradition over biblical principle. There is room for disagreement among Christians on what constitutes a serious doctrinal error versus a secondary issue.
Romans 14 addresses disputes over personal convictions, and its principles are relevant. One person may have freedom to use certain music while another person may object due to concerns about the associated ministry. Both should follow their conscience but be careful not to judge one another over disputable matters. Christian freedom allows for diversity in matters of personal conviction.
Principles for Making a Decision
When determining if using worship music from another church is appropriate, here are some principles to consider:
- Pray for wisdom and discernment through scripture (James 1:5, Philippians 1:9-10).
- Study the doctrine of the church to identify any core unbiblical teachings.
- Consider any personal convictions and reasons for discomfort with the group.
- Evaluate the risk of sending unintended messages about truth.
- Assess opportunities to extend gospel influence by common ground.
Rather than making broad conclusions, it is wise to evaluate specific songs and how their use will impact others. Lyrics may be theologically sound even if the church has problems elsewhere. Seeking counsel from mature believers is also wise to gain perspective.
More Important Issues than Musical Preferences
In pursuing doctrinal integrity in music, it is also important to keep first things first. As important as doctrinal purity is, Scripture elevates love as the supreme virtue (Colossians 3:14, 1 Corinthians 13:2). Seeking to build a pure church through ever-stricter rules can lead to judgmental attitudes that destroy Christian unity.
Christians should grant each other grace regarding musical preferences andsecondary doctrinal differences that are not essential to the gospel. There are more important issues than arguing over music styles or association with certain churches. True worship glorifies Christ through sound doctrine rightly applied with love for God and others.
In summary, Christians should evaluate the doctrinal beliefs promoted by a particular church and determine if they reflect core gospel truths or dangerous heresy. This will help discern if it is appropriate to use their worship music. Personal convictions, potential impact on others, and opportunities for outreach should also guide decisions. Lyrics that are biblically sound can still glorify God, even if sung alongside imperfect believers. Biblical faithfulness paired with loving unity in the Body of Christ is key.
Whether to use the worship music from churches with some theological errors requires careful consideration of doctrine and impact on others while exercising Christian freedom with charity. With prayer and humility, Christians can make decisions that uphold gospel truth while showing grace within the Body of Christ.
The Bible warns Christians to avoid false doctrine, while also instructing believers to show love and avoid divisions over disputable matters. Biblical discernment is needed to determine which doctrinal differences represent core gospel errors versus secondary issues where flexibility is appropriate. Rather than judging one another over personal convictions, Christians should focus on sound doctrine rightly applied with love, for the glory of Christ.
When evaluating the appropriateness of worship music, the focus should be on the lyrics first and foremost. Music that promotes biblically sound truths about God can still direct our hearts and minds towards Christ, even if coming from an imperfect source. However, Christians should still be cautious about implied endorsement of serious doctrinal errors. There is room for diversity and grace on secondary issues that do not compromise essential gospel truths.
Above all, prayer, humility, and seeking wise counsel from scripture and other believers is advised. Choices regarding music and ministry associations should be rooted in Christian freedom guided by biblical truth. The unity of Christ’s body and God’s glory should be the overarching concerns rather than preferences, traditions or legalistic rules.
With the guidance of the Holy Spirit and a commitment to both sound doctrine and loving unity, Christians can successfully navigate these complex issues for the glory of God and the furtherance of the gospel.