The most controversial debate, Christian Vs Secular music

Music shapes cultures, inspires emotions, and influences millions every day. But for many Christians, one question continues to surface: should believers listen to secular music, or only Christian music?

Secular music refers to any music that is not spiritually focused. It can be about love, life, pain, social issues, culture, or simply entertainment. It spans a wide range of genres such as hip-hop, Afrobeats, R&B, pop, and more.

Christian music, on the other hand, is intentionally crafted to point listeners toward Christ, Scripture, and biblical themes. Worship, gospel, Christian rap, and Christian rock all aim to encourage spiritual growth, reflection, and praise.

What Do Christians Say About This?

CalledOut Music (Samuel Nwachukwu), a well-known Nigerian gospel artist, shared in a TikTok video where he explained that he primarily listens to gospel and worship music to stay spiritually sensitive and connected to God. Yet he also described a moment when he danced with his mother to the classic secular song “Sweet Mother” by Prince Nico Mbarga; a reminder that not all secular music contradicts Christian values.

In the comments section of his video, many listeners emphasised the importance of paying attention to lyrics with some commenting:

• “Music is spirit, it’s not just vibes. There’s a spirit behind every sound.”
• “People forget that songs like ‘Happy Birthday’ and ‘Twinkle Twinkle Little Star’ are secular. Context is key.”

These responses highlight a common argument: the issue isn’t secular music as a category, but the meaning and influence behind the music. Some songs may express themes of pure love or everyday life, while others may carry messages or hidden meanings that can negatively influence the mind and soul. For many Christians, the key is discernment.

Secular Music vs. Ungodly Music

Influencer Ana Esimone on TikTok also addressed this topic, distinguishing between secular and ungodly music.

She noted that if “secular” simply means “not Christian,” then even harmless everyday songs would fall into that category. Instead, she argued that Christians should consider:

1. The message of the song
2. The lifestyle and spiritual influence of the artist
3. The impact the music has on their own heart and mind

She explained that some artists openly promote immorality, blasphemy, or themes rooted in darkness. Even if such an artist sings a harmless song, the spiritual influence behind it may still affect the listener. However, she also pointed out that many artists write sincerely about personal struggles or real-life hardships, and listening to those songs isn’t inherently wrong. As she concluded: discernment is key.

Comments from her viewers echoed this sentiment, with one saying: “There’s secular music you can listen to. They may not glorify God, but they aren’t bad, like songs from cartoons such as The Lion King.”

The Importance of Discernment

Some songs express themes of pure love or everyday life, while others may carry messages or hidden meanings that can negatively influence the mind and soul. For many Christians, the key is discernment. But what is discernment? According to the Oxford Dictionary, discernment is the ability to judge well. In other words, it is the ability to make wise decisions, with the skill to distinguish between things that may appear subtle or difficult to tell apart.

Spiritual Influence: What Scripture Suggests About Music

A popular podcast named “Under the Bed”, hosted by Destiny and Tolu on YouTube and TikTok, also explored this topic. The podcast focuses on faith in contemporary life, addressing cultural and spiritual issues affecting Gen Z.

In an episode on secular music, one of the hosts shared how the Holy Spirit sometimes convicts her when a song isn’t spiritually beneficial. She referenced the story of Saul and David in 1 Samuel 16, where King Saul was tormented by an evil spirit. His servants called for David to play the harp, and as David played, the evil spirit left Saul, bringing him peace.

Reflecting on this story, the host noted that if David’s music had the power to drive out demons, then music also has the potential to invite negative spiritual influences. This underscores the idea that music is spiritually impactful, either positively or negatively.

So, Is Listening to Secular Music Wrong?

Rather than giving a simple yes or no, many Christians find it helpful to ask these guiding questions:

1. What message does the song carry?
2. How does it affect your spirit?
3. Who is influencing you, both the song and the artist?

The issue isn’t strictly “secular vs. Christian.” The deeper concern is content, influence, and spiritual impact. Some secular songs are harmless or even uplifting. Others can pull believers away from God. That’s why, for many Christians, the most balanced approach is not legalism but discernment, ensuring that what they listen to aligns with their walk with God.