Product Overview
Playing with Fire: Use and Abuse of Music by
0952822202
- Publisher : Barratt Ministries Publications; 1st edition (May 10, 1996)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 240 pages
- ISBN-10 : 0952822202
- ISBN-13 : 9780952822202
- Item Weight : 9.9 ounces
Playing With Fire addresses one of the major issues facing Christians today, the all-pervasive influence of music on society, and asks what the Christian reaction should be. Ought we to move with the times and accept new styles, or are there dangerous elements to the new trends which we ought to vigorously oppose? From the standpoint of a professionally trained classical musician, Alex Robertson is aware that although all Christians are profoundly influenced by music, many lack the musical knowledge to know how to make decisions on what is right and wrong in music. Indeed, this is one of the basic questions dealt with: can we say that there is such a thing as a "right" and "wrong" use of music? On what grounds? Arguing carefully from scripture, music theory and history, and experience, Alex Robertson presents strong evidence in a clear and non-technical way, and, avoiding the temptation to make dogmatic statements, leaves the reader to draw their own conclusions from the evidence. It is clear enough that music can have powerful effects, and not all of them are good. It can, for example, be a powerful manipulative tool, or it can become an addictive drug; it can create a "virtual" fantasy world which cuts the listener off from reality; and it, or the people who perform it, can become a dangerous source of idolatry. The powers of music are by no means exclusively beneficial. Alex Robertson argues that these "powers" are essentially spiritual powers, and therefore of intense relevance to our lives as Christians. The sweep of the book is broad, taking in issues such as the profound impact of the use of image in society today and the way in which the church struggles between reactionary resistance and wholesale "jumping on the bandwagon". Examining trends in society from a Christian point of view, it asks where we are heading as a civilization, and what a Christian response should be. The issues explored are relevant and fascinating: Is there such a thing as "Christian Music"? If so, how do we define it? By the lyrics? By the musical style? Can music act like a powerful drug, creating dangerous addiction? How does it do so? Is there a danger of hypnotic suggestion through the use of some sorts of music? Are some styles better suited to Christian worship than others? If so, why? How and why do new styles develop? What does the bible tell us about the beginning of music and culture? What does it tell us about the end of music and culture? How are Christians to live "in the world but not of it", and what are the implications for our attitude to music? Finally the book turns to the subject of ministry, and music ministry in particular; the positive use of music as an expression of our own hearts and spirits; the danger of confusing ministry and entertainment, and the equal danger of confusing the presence of God with the power of music. The key to true ministry, the author argues, is brokenness and humility, the opposite of the self-aggrandizement and hype which surrounds the music and entertainment world. The way for Christians is the way of the cross; the battle for every Christian is the battle for lordship of our lives, and music is one of the contenders for that lordship. Concluding with some "frequently asked questions", the book ends with an appendix examining atonal music and the questions it raises about the naturally occurring harmony and tonality in creation. From the Back Cover Music is power ... power to influence and inspire, or to manipulate and control. It can be a wonderful means of expression, or a potent and addictive drug. This book is about the use and abuse of that power. It is timely, because Christianity today stands at a crossroads with regard to music...
