Every now and then I can’t sleep. Most of the time I don’t mind because it gives me a chance to work on projects I’ve had in my head for a while. When the world is dark and quiet (well, our half of it) it is a great time to get things done. Then again, sometimes I just zone out reading the news–which I often think belongs in quotation marks. With the country in the shape it’s in, is another person booted from ‘American Idol’ really “news”? Apparently it is.
Personally I don’t watch ‘American Idol’; not for any reason other than lack of interest. Bring back William Hung as a perpetual finalist or maybe a judge and I’d be a loyal fan of the show, but that also tells you the last time I watched it. Unfortunately, I get my ‘Idol’ updates from unlikely sources: Christians.
Just this past Sunday morning, during the music portion of worship, the worship leader broke off into a brief commentary on Scotty and his deep faith and courage to be a witness for Christ on the show, and that was the interlude/lead-in to the next song for us. I could almost visibly see the pop-culture reference go by as it flew over my head.
While pulling Thursday night’s unintentional graveyard shift, I decided to follow the headline about the latest finalist elimination. Curious about both the former contestant’s “signature snarl” and this Scotty fellow, I decided to visit the Idol webpage to watch a few video clips. I have to admit, it must be fun to be a contestant. There’s something about TV that always makes whatever is on look magical. I agree, Scotty has quite a voice and was up-front with his profession of faith in Christ. But the question remains…
Should Christians be on ‘American Idol’?
Should we (literally) be playing the world’s game and chasing after the world’s treasures of fame and fortune? And it is a chase for both—why else audition? Let’s face it; the show isn’t called ‘American Servant.’
What happens when the big record label gets its talons into a Christian? That brother or sister will be contractually bound to serve two masters: the Lord and the record label, maybe more masters if you factor in product endorsements and sponsorships. Will there be a rider in the contract that says “the talent” is prohibited from expressing his or her religious views? I’m not trying to be cynical, but I highly doubt Sony (or whomever) would allow their new-found product to openly and repeatedly say that Jesus Christ, who is God, is the only way to heaven.
Can you imagine confronting the celebrity judges about having to face a holy, just God at judgment and account for every word, thought, and deed, and proceeded the share the full Gospel with them? It would be great if that happened off-camera somewhere in the weeks together—maybe over coffee on some filming break—but imagine the tragedy if it never does. How ironic that a Christian would stand before men and appeal for their help in becoming a celebrity in this life but never take an opportunity to confront them about their own eternal destinies? Imagine their cries for all eternity, “We made you famous, but why didn’t you tell us we needed to repent?!”
Well, beloved, what do you think, should Christians be on ‘American Idol’?
Yes, I think they should. Until the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of our God and Christ.
Anthony, the answer to this question is not simple. I believe that Christians should participate in culture across the spectrum, so long as they are able to remain distinctly Christian. The desire for and pursuit of fame, recognition, etc. are not sinful so long as these are prioritized biblically. We cannot desire these things more than God; and we cannot be “crushed” if our dreams are not brought to fruition. In Christ, we should be satisfied regardless what life’s circumstances may be (Even pastors need to hear this on a regular basis). My question concerning American Idol is if it’s… Read more »
Brent, I like the perspective you bring–quite a bit in one short sentence! Jared, a strong argument, as always!
-AR
I think I am in Brent’s camp here. Christians should engage in culture.
However, it is a question that cannot be answered with a blanket yes or no. And individual singer should follow his or her conscience.
I think Anthony’s point is right. I am guessing that a Christian who put Christ first in all things and was vocal about his or her faith might find some resistance pretty quickly.
Yes. “Christians” should participate.
Whether an individual Christian should participate is up to the person’s gifting, maturity, goals and conscience.
Engaging and being part of the larger culture does not only mean presenting Christian arguments regarding various topice or issues. It also means participation.
We make rockstars out of our pastors and we’re questioning if laity ought to compete either in contests or to be successful?
If I wasn’t morally opposed to emoticons, I’d give you a smiley face for this one!
Should Christians be involved in the legal profession (direct all your lawyer jokes to Louis)? Should Christians be involved in professional sports (talk about money and gods)? Should Christians be involved in making movies or music? Should Christians live in the culture and be salt and light wherever God places them? I think the answer to these questions is generally yes. I say generally because there are always exceptions to the rule (pretty sure God would frown upon Christians being involved in making certain kinds of movies), but we cannot retreat from culture, no matter how bad we might think… Read more »
YES! That would be a question for each individual Christian to determine.
Yes, they should. They should also work in the secular culture at a secular job, eat at secular resturants, go to secular vacation spots, etc. We are supposed to be the light to the world. Shine where God has gifted you to shine.
Anthony, ‘Christians’ made Hannah Montana. All you to do is slap a fish on it and you have an instant market niche. The record labels might be salivating.
I think many are missing the point when they say we “need” to be in the culture and equate American Idol with a legitimate job or career. Lets face it, AI is hardly about earning a living… I think you would be hard pressed to find a contestent that is deep down honestly motivated by the prospect of an honest living… And more importantly, just because we are working and living in this culture does not eliminate the neccesity to use goog biblical judgement… Can I work in an abortion clinic? Well, its legal, and I cannot force my values… Read more »
As with most questions of living faith there are not easy answers. One must balance the issue of “being in the world but not of the world” and take seriously Paul’s admonition to “come out and be separate.”
Good, helpful discussion.
Christian singer or not – That particular musician may not knowingly cause him or herself to become an idol for someone else. I am not saying Christians are sinning by being on American idol, but due to its own name, do we really want “Christian” to be “The American Idol”-
This is a good articile. I myself have been contemplating on whether I should try out for American Idol, but something in me just is saying no. When I think of American Idol. I think… we are singing to be heard, and from being heard we gain fans, but those who succeed further to the next round, fans will be idolizing them more. I serve a very jealous God, and i know for a fact we cannot idolize singers,musicians, etc but God himself. I wonder if there are other christian talent tryouts, i could attend?