Need Christian perspective on choice of music?

Question

Hi

I recently got into Black Sabbath, and I also found out that Ozzy Osbourne has sponsored Marilyn Manson on numerous occasions (Ozzfest).

As a Christian I am torn and confused. Marilyn Manson has been known to spew hatred and blasphemy about religion. So would that disqualify Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath's music from being an appropriate option because they actively associate with him?

Oh if you have nothing constructive to contribute, please don't answer. A Christian perspective is wanted, (a minister or theologian would be nice too).

Thanks

edit: I said that I wanted constructive advice from a Christian perspective. Not same lame "music is music" crap.

edit 2:

I don't really care if Manson attacks organized religion and its customs, etc. But when you actively blaspheme and reject the Holy Spirit, and incite others to do so, that's a different story altogether.

Im not some ignorant Christian fanatic, I know the difference between the two.

As for Ozzy, if he's an atheist, that's fine with me, as long as he hasn't actively blaspheme the holy spirit. If you take time to listen to his lyrics he has a lot of mystical themes about good triumphing over evil, etc.
The conundrum I have here, is whether he is red flaged due to association with Manson.

Does that clarify my question?

Answer 1

Ozzy is a believer in God.

Answer 2

I'm a Christian, and I have studied theology, but I'm not sure that a lot of people would agree with what I have to say. So keep in mind that this is ONE persons opinion only.

I listen to Ozzy. I'm not really into Black Sabbath.

You can listen to what you like as far as music, this is certain, but you need spiritual discernment to ensure that you know the meaning of what you listen to. If you lack the discernment, then you might want to exercise more care and listen to bands like Demon Hunter and Chevelle while those spiritual gifts (wisdom and discernment) get stronger.

EDIT - Also keep in mind two things, first, the devil is the source of all confusion. If you weren't confused before, then the music might be the cause. Second, when you listen to secular music, you really should be very mature in your faith.

EDIT 2 - I don't follow guilt by association. If that were actually true, then Jesus could never have been innocent seeing as he was always hanging around sinners.

Answer 3

Hi I love your question I love Music and Found myself torn as you are. I Have children and Listening to hard rock and metal Simply wasn't an appropriate choice while in the car with them. I started listening to Country and Western Music. The Morning show is clean, that is the DJ's don't make gross innuendos or other-wise suggest innapropriate things. The Music (new country) revolves around working hard learning lessons in life and the importance of Marraige and patriotism. The artists themselves, if they have children, bring the childrien on the road instead of shucking them off with a nanny. Give it a try. I really think you will be surprised.

Don't get me wrong. I will always love Sepultura, Metallica, Ministry, Ozzy, Guns N' Roses but We vote with our dollar don't we?

Answer 4

I'm a Christian. I went to Ozzfest in 2000 and saw Black Sabbath and Marilyn Manson in concert. I don't feel conviction over it, because I understand that Manson is just doing what rockers, including Ozzy, have done for years -- trying to shock people.

Really, there is no *correct* answer to this. Really, its a decision that should be made between you and God.

Answer 5

From a human perspective, I think music affects us in deep and meaningful ways. Consequently, the lyrics in the music we listen to affect us - sometimes in ways that we cannot detect. I would not recommend that we listen to the kind of music you described for that reason.

From a Christian perspective, Philippians 4:8 sums it up pretty well:

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. (NIV)

Is the music you listen to building you up or tearing you down?

There is such a thing as Christian rock music with a sound that's similar to the bands you have listed. That might be a better choice for you.

Answer 6

personally, as a Christian, i beleive that what goes in, comes out in one way or another. So if what we are listening to or watching isnt pleasing to what God wants or the Bible says i would probally pass.
i have no problem with styles of music, rock, rap, whatever. But listen to the lyrics. And pray about it.
The best test is this: If Jesus came back tonight, or showed up in your room, would he be pleased with this or not?
Everything either effects you negatively and positively, and most likely this is going on the negative.


kelly

Answer 7

I have no idea how to handle a child that's already this damaged by lack of discipline and respect for authority. I see that your parents lack of discipline created this monster. I also see your parents and you as enablers to this bad behavior. They need to quit giving in to her, letting her become the "victim," and just generally doing whatever she wants. She will only get worse, and you can pray all you want, but without some solid discipline and rules, she will not get any better. Chances are, without your parents on board, you are likely not going to see any respect from her. She is the entitlement generation, and is being raised accordingly... You say her life is not yours to live or decide. HOWEVER, consider this: Your parents are offering her little guidance in the ways of how to behave, what is proper, what is not acceptable, etc. If she means as much to you as you make it seem, then when do you put your foot down and say enough is enough? This child is 14 years old. She is incapable of making intelligent decisions for herself, by herself, without some guidance. And "Make the right choice" is not guidance. She needs rules, boundaries, discipline. You cannot expect her to make adult decisions at 14. Any parent who raises a child by expecting them to make adult decisions at 14 years old is raising a child to fail. Best of luck to your family and your 14 year old sister, especially.

Answer 8

Any music that is not of God is of satan.
Music should be to glorify God. If it does not
glorify God then you automatically know you
should not be listening to it.
black sabbath and ozzy oxbourn,marily manson is not of God. You have to choose.
Give KLove (102.3 Fm) a try.
God bless and give you His help and guidence.
Peace be unto you.
P.S- There are MANY Christian bands that are
Great.

Answer 9

As a Christian I wouldn't listen to any of the musicians you mentioned. Christians need to be careful what they listen to. There is some really great Christian music out there-something for every taste. It will build you up and bless you and your family.

Answer 10

yeah, um... probably not a good choice if you want to remain faithful to God. The sabbath is the traditional "holy day" which means the name black sabbath is sacreliege in a way and very satanic/ ungodly in nature. You might want to listen to something a bit more edifying.

Answer 11

i am a christian, so maybe this will help you...

I Corinthians 3:16Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you? 17If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him; for God's temple is sacred, and you are that temple.

the way I see it is whatever you put into your mind (music, movies, tv), or body (drugs, alcohol, and even unhealthy foods) will eventually show up and are inhibiting your spiritual walk. people say "i dont listen to the lyrics" and yet they know every word.

why not put positive thoughts and feelings into your body, ones that will glorify God!

I Corinthians 10: 31So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.