INTRODUCTION:

Because everyone has his own personal preferences and opinions when it comes to musical styles and because there is nothing in Scripture to indicate that a given type of music

is inherently good or evil, the Pastor and

Deacons at FBCW take the position that it

should be considered a "gray or debatable " matter as spoken of by the Apostle Paul in Romans, 14 and 1st Corinthians, 8. 

As such, the general principles laid down in these passages should govern both our attitudes and behaviors toward one another. In practice this means that on a personal level each believer should feel free in Christ to listen to whatever he chooses that is in agreement with the spirit and principles of the Word of God.  (Colossians 3:16-17; Titus 2:7)

On a church ministry level, however, the Pastor and Deacons, believing that music is a vital part of the ministry at FBCW and being sensitive to the diversity of opinion which exists among the brethren, have chosen to establish guidelines to evaluate the music which is to be used or performed at various church functions.  While there will be room for subjective interpretation, they believe that the following guidelines will serve the very helpful purpose of giving direction to those responsible for planning activities involving music :

FIRST,

The music should be appropriate for its intended use and serve as an effective medium for  making melody in our hearts to the Lord with thanksgiving (Ephesians 5:19-20).

SECOND,

When words accompany the music, they should be God-honoring, wholesome and edifying (1st Corinthians 10:31; Ephesians 4:29); able to teach and challenge us to live for God with a spirit of thanksgiving (Colossians 3:16-17); meeting the Apostle Paul's criteria for what we should let our minds dwell on (Philippians 4:8).  To accomplish the intended purpose of renewing our minds and being hid away in our hearts (Romans 12:2; Psalm 119:9,11), the words should, for the most part, be able to be heard and understood above the music.

THIRD,

When there is a live or visual performance, the performing musician should model a godly lifestyle and purpose worthy of following (1st Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7; 1st Peter 2:21; 5:3); both of which avoid the hollow and deceptive philosophies and traditions of this world (Romans12:2; Colossians 2:8). 

FOURTH,

The graphics accompanying the musician and his music should avoid that which promotes evil or worldliness (Psalm 101:3a; Romans 12:2; 1st John 2:15-17), but rather should be God-honoring and Christ-like (I Corinthians 10:31; 1st John 2:6).

CONCLUSION: 

The leadership responsible for a given church function will also be responsible for following the intent of the above guidelines and should direct any questions it may have to the Pastors and/or Deacons prior to the event.

 Approved by unanimous vote of the Pastor and Deacons on June 25,1995.