Ministry or Entertainment? (#339)
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Southern Gospel music has it's own version of the famous "chicken and egg" question: Is Southern Gospel music ministry or entertainment?
For years, I've heard from people of both schools of thought on this issue; and nearly everyone of those people are fairly dogmatic in their beliefs. There is, however, another facet to consider: Those people who really don't care what it is - they enjoy it regardless of what it's labeled.
In all frankness, I probably fit better in that category than the other two. But before you schedule me for exile, I want to hear your take on this.
I will, however, give you my justification for my opinion: I truly think it's BOTH ministry and entertainment and that God can and will choose to use them both for His work. When the answer has to be pigeon-holed into one category, I believe that the answer is found in the simple "intent" of the performer: Is there a desire for the spotlight? Is there a burden to help lost souls? Is there a fantasy to spend hours traveling in a shiny bus? Is there a fire to share how God has touched a life?
I'll offer this for your consideration: Almost every night after a concert, I've overheard comments that range from "My, what a blessing" to "I needed those laughs to get my mind off my bills."
I'll have more comments on this soon. But now, it's your turn. E-mail me your thoughts on this.
And by the way, I hope 2007 is your best year ever!