The Truth Behind Your Favorite Worship Tunes

Have you ever found yourself lost in the melodies of your favorite worship songs, only to question the lyrics later? The latest podcast episode explores the unsettling truths and theological inaccuracies embedded in contemporary worship music.

I critically examine popular worship groups like Elevation, Hillsong, Jesus Culture, and Bethel, revealing hidden flaws and false teachings that many believers unknowingly embrace. This episode features insights from trusted voices like Alan Parr and Dawn Hill, thoroughly analyzing problematic lyrics and the doctrines concerning influential figures like Steven Furtick and Bill Johnson.

The episode begins by reflecting on the complexities of discerning biblical from unbiblical worship music. Using a famous scene from The Wizard of Oz, I recount my 2020 awakening to the flaws and false teachings within the church, which led to heartbreak and anxiety.

This critical examination isn't limited to Elevation. Dawn Hill also raises concerns about Steven Furtick's teachings, often influencing the group's music. Furtick's statements, such as Jesus changing forms, allude to modalism, a theological error that misrepresents the nature of Jesus' divinity. Hill also points out Furtick's quotes from Richard Rohr, a universalist, urging listeners to discern the sources and teachings behind their worship music.

The episode then transitions to a broader discussion on the importance of worship music being rooted in truth. Alan Parr critiques songs like "Champion" and "Too Good Not To Believe," highlighting problematic lyrics that promote man-centered theology. I emphasize that only God has the power to perform miracles, challenging the belief that believers possess these same gifts. Parr also critiques the heretical teachings of churches like Bethel, Hillsong, and Elevation, explicitly calling out Bill Johnson's claim that Jesus performed miracles as a man in a right relationship with God rather than as God.

The theological concerns extend to controversial practices associated with these churches, such as the prosperity gospel, grave soaking, and the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry. Alan Parr and Justin Peters warn listeners about the dangerous influence of Bethel and Hillsong music, which they claim is used to spread questionable doctrines. 

Final Thoughts

The episode concludes with a call to action for believers to be discerning when choosing worship songs. Worship music should glorify God, not promote man-centered theology. Listeners are encouraged to evaluate the theological soundness of lyrics and to be vigilant in discerning truth from deception in all aspects of their faith journey.