Rock music, with its electric guitars and pounding drums, doesn’t get a direct shoutout in the Bible. That’s probably because electric guitars were a few millennia away from being invented. But that doesn’t mean the Good Book is silent on the themes of music and expression.
The Bible is a treasure trove of wisdom on how we should fill our lives, including the kind of music we let into our ears and hearts. It speaks volumes about the power of music to influence our emotions, thoughts, and even our actions.
Curious to see how your favorite rock ballads measure up in the grand scheme of things? Stick around. You might be surprised by what you discover about rock music through the lens of ancient wisdom.
What Does the Bible Say About Rock Music?
Diving into the Bible, you won’t find the term “rock music.” However, the scriptures are rich with guidance on how to discern the content and impact of the music we enjoy. The core of the biblical message about music, rock or otherwise, revolves around its influence on our hearts and minds, and its alignment with Christian values.
The Bible encourages us to fill our lives with things that are pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8). Music that uplifts, encourages, and brings us closer to God fits this bill perfectly. But what about the rock tunes that rage against injustice, scream about love lost, or explore the darker corners of the human experience? Here’s where context and content become key.
God’s view on music, as gleaned from the Bible, doesn’t hinge on a genre but on the heart’s posture it encourages. Does the music lead you to contemplate the deeper things of life, or does it stir up anger, despair, or rebellion without cause? The New Testament doesn’t list genres of music as “allowed” or “sinful.” Instead, it points us towards examining the fruits of what we consume—does it bring us closer to God, or does it drive a wedge between us and our creator?
Music, in its essence, is a form of expression and can be a powerful medium for good. Jesus didn’t speak to the specifics of musical styles. However, His teachings guide us towards seeking out the good in all things, including the arts and music. The question isn’t so much about the beat or the rhythm but about the message and the messenger.
When it comes to rock music, the Bible would prompt us to ask: Does this music glorify God, or does it lead us away from Him? Is it a celebration of the beauty and complexity of creation, or does it revel in sin without seeking redemption? These are the measures by which we can gauge not just rock music, but all forms of art and entertainment.
Bible Verses About Rock Music
Since we’re not dealing with direct references, we’ll explore verses that help us discern the nature of the music we enjoy, rock included:
- Philippians 4:8 – “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” This verse is a call to fill our minds and hearts with what uplifts and edifies. If a rock song inspires, encourages, or speaks truth into our lives, it aligns with this biblical principle.
- Ephesians 5:19 – “Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” Music is a gift, a way to express our joy, sorrow, and worship. Whether it’s a hymn or a rock anthem, if it’s sung from the heart to God, it’s valued.
- Psalm 101:3 – “I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.” This verse challenges us to be selective about what we consume, including music. If rock music promotes messages that are contrary to God’s teachings, it’s wise to steer clear.
- Colossians 3:16 – “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.” Music that fosters gratitude, shares Christ’s message, or encourages wisdom can be seen as beneficial, regardless of the genre.
- James 3:13 – “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.” Our choices, including musical preferences, should reflect the wisdom and humility that comes from a life lived in pursuit of God’s truth.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This verse applies broadly to our lives, including our musical tastes. If rock music can be enjoyed in a way that glorifies God, perhaps by appreciating the creativity He’s endowed in humans or by connecting with the emotions and experiences that echo biblical themes, then it finds its place within a Christian life.
- Psalm 150:1-6 – “Praise the Lord. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals.” This passage celebrates the use of a wide array of musical instruments in worship. While it doesn’t mention electric guitars or drum sets specifically, the principle of using music to praise God is clear. The variety and energy found in rock music can be a powerful expression of praise.
- Matthew 15:11 – “What goes into someone’s mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them.” Applied to music, this verse suggests that it’s not the style of music that inherently matters, but the message it conveys and the impact it has on our hearts and actions.
- Romans 14:13 – “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” This verse reminds us of the importance of considering how our choices, including our choice of music, affect others around us. If rock music causes a fellow believer to stumble in their faith, it’s worth examining our freedom in light of love and responsibility towards others.
- Proverbs 4:23 – “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” While this isn’t about music specifically, it’s a crucial principle for Christians. The media we consume, including rock music, can influence our hearts and minds. It’s vital to be discerning about the messages we allow in, ensuring they align with biblical truth and promote a life that reflects Christ’s love and righteousness.
In conclusion, the Bible doesn’t explicitly address rock music, but it does offer principles for discerning how we engage with all forms of media and entertainment. By examining the content, message, and impact of the music we listen to, we can enjoy the vast world of musical expression in a way that honors God and reflects His love and truth in our lives.