General Discussions

Views on music? – MetalMan

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003
Hi everyone!

What does everyone listen to on theese boards?
Is there anything as "bad" music?
Does music influence your life, and can you decide yourself what kind of music you will like or is this something that you can't change?

I myself listen to very dark music wich I suspect most of you would consider as satanic, ok I might not like all the lyrics but the music rules!

I work at a very small company and I know for a fact that one of our customers thinks I am a devil worshipper, and that's just cause he know what kind of music I like and because he has only seen me wearing black clothes, is there something wrong with black? isn't that just a color among all other?

The thing is, I have seen so many people looking down at fans of heavy metal thinking they can plant evil thoughts in your head by just thinking of it. The fact is that most people I've met who listen to heavy/death metal is very caring and kind. Well I can agree that in the genre of Death metal there are some true satanists but they're just plain silly and not very mature...


Ooops... turned out to be a long post, I hope I didn't bore you to death with my rambling...

Cheers
/MetalMan

[EDIT]
Meant to post this in the general christian section, but somehow it ended up here.. sorry.
[/EDIT]
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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...

[This message has been edited by MetalMan (edited April 25, 2003).]

AmazingJas

Member

Posts: 437
From: Sydney, NSW, AUSTRALIA
Registered: 04-03-2003
Metalman, you sound like a very interesting character (but in a good kinda way!).
Firstly, there are some Christians (but not a majority) that think that ALL rock music is of the devil, even so called Christian rock music. I personally don't think that music per se can be evil, but you've gotta remember that people are emotional beings and music and especially lyrics can be used to manipulate our emotions, which can then be used to direct our paths. In my younger days, I used to listen to lots of heavy metal Christian music (yes, it does exist and is quite popular). But hated similar music that wasn't Christian because it brought out feelings and attitudes in me that I didn't like. Some people say "Garbage in, makes Garbage out". I don't know if this is true for everyone, but I think for me it was. A couple of Christian HM bands I liked where WhiteCross and Stryper, but I'm sure there are many more to choose from these days. I now pretty much listen to a Christian radio station which puts out a mix of easy listening, Christian pop, and Worship music. You might laugh at 'Worship' music, but it is designed to make you feel good in a Godly way, and I really value that.
If you're interested in trying Christian music, it's normally a big part of a Christian book store's merchandise. In fact some of these book stores look more like music stores (on the inside), so stop in one day and try some out.

[This message has been edited by AmazingJas (edited April 25, 2003).]

rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
Hey MetalMan - cool avatar

I think music has a powerful influence over our lives. I would say it affects us on a spiritual level. Songs, like any other expression of creativity, carry the authors emotions, feelings and beliefs, and these will always, to varying degrees, rub off on us. So I do think it is wise to use the discernment God has given us to choose music which will help us grow in Him.

Some Christians discernment doesn't go any deeper than checking for a Christian label on the CD (or the color of clothes people wear!). The problem with this is that anyone can stick a Christian label on their CD, and its often been an excuse for making poor quality music.

Other Christians think they are immune to any effects from ungodly music and take great pride in boasting how they will listen to all secular music. Their discernment doesn't go any deeper than superficial aesthetics.

Both groups have forgotten that God gave us the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom and discernment in even these matters, so that we would not think like pagans.

I don't believe heavy metal is any better or worse than other genres. I've recently discovered Evanescence who appear at first glance and listen to be a dark gothic band, but their lyrics are full of the hope of the gospel.

It distresses me that children are growing up today with such awful role models like gansta rappers, and pop idols who sing about having sex with anything and everyone. So if I had to pick a genre of music that was the most satanic I'd say pop music

God Bless you, Rowan

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003
Hi there, and thank you for taking the time to answer

I've pretty much tried all music there is and to this day I haven't found anything that I can listen to except Metal or Opera and Classical (weird mix huh?). I remember starting to listening to metal when I was around five or six, before that I thought music was nothing but a disturbance factor...

I have a hard time believing that music could change ones personality, at the most someone could make the music an excuse to do something "evil". Just because they didn't know where the urge to do it came from originally, the music became a scapegoat... I'm not saying it IS this way, it's just hypothetical.

Most people who know me describes me as a very gentle and caring person, and sure I think I am, I love seeing other people being happy. And if I could I would dedicate my life at doing good, and sometimes I have even a hard time holding back the tears when walking past a homeless person or beggar, there's just so much I would like to do for them. At the moment all I can do is give them the loose coins I have in my pocket, but I want to give them their LIFE back not just some lousy coins...

Then I go home and listen to music that would make most people afraid of the dark...

Do you get the contrast?

As I've said in a previous post, I don't count myself as a christian, I listen to "evil" music. On the other hand I won't even smash a spider if I can avoid it, even though I'm terrified of them...

So what impact has music had on my life?
Am I evil or good? Is everything as black and white as some people seem to think it is?

ahhh... somebody stop me!!!
You have to excuse me for rambling, I just enjoy discussing issues like this..

Take care everyone!
Cheers
[EDIT]
Heh.. Didn't see your answer before I posted Rowan, thank you and in case you wondered, the avatar comes from my favourite comic character
"Captain Klutz"
And Evanescence are great, I recently heard some of their songs, don't think I heard the lyrics though, so can't comment on how their lyrics are...

I wish you all a great weekend
(and if it's hard to follow what I've written it's probably because I don't speek English very often, so the language skills may be lacking a bit )
[/EDIT]

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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...

[This message has been edited by MetalMan (edited April 25, 2003).]

Torial

Member

Posts: 73
From: Cedar Rapids, Ia, USA
Registered: 07-23-2002
Personally, I love soundtracks (e.g. Lord of the Rings soundtrack) and classical, and also messianic worship music (not american imitation of messianic worship).

Others have responded well to the emotional impact so I don't need to add anything.

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A must read: http://www.christiancoders.com/cgi-bin/articles/show_article.pl?f=christiancaleb01112002.html

nfektious
Member

Posts: 408
From:
Registered: 10-25-2002
I like all forms of music and song. However, I have issue with *at least* 50% of the lyrics that accompany those forms of music. That precludes me from listening to a majority of music styles due to the basic nature of the lyrics. I have found that the underlying motive of the music composition can be carried in the music itself - even if it's music without lyric. I have also found that my own disposition can choose the music/song I listen to. Similarly I have found that the music/song I listen to can affect my disposition - negatively or positively depending on the circumstances.
I prefer to listen to music/song that puts me into a positive mood (and keeps me there), although I enjoy music/song that is original *and* positive, but at least original. This eliminates 99% of the "pop" music/song that is pushed (like a drug) on society - whether it be secular or non-secular.
In the end I guess my favorite music is that which is dominated by an upbeat versus a downbeat (poor choice of words and no pun intended, but I hope you know what I mean )
rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
MetalMan: your English is as good as mine! And please feel free to ramble. We've had posts on this forum as long as books.

I want to aplogize on behalf of the Christians who have clearly made you feeled judged for the music you listen to and the clothes you wear. They should remember the Kingdom of Heaven is made up of outcasts and those who dared to be different.

On the topic of good and evil, some thoughts for you: The Bible tells us that there is both good AND evil in us. There is our sinful nature which is concerned only with selfish pleasure, and there is the Spirit of God which is concerned for fellow humans.

God said this to the Isrealites...

"I can't stand your religious meetings.
I'm fed up with your conferences and conventions.
I want nothing to do with your religion projects,
your pretentious slogans and goals.
I'm sick of your fund-raising schemes,
your public relations and image making.
I've had all I can take of your noisy ego-music.
When was the last time you sang to me?
Do you know what I want?
I want justice--oceans of it.
I want fairness--rivers of it.
That's what I want. That's all I want."
Amos 5:21-24
BKewl

Member

Posts: 144
From: St. Charles, MO, USA
Registered: 07-10-2002
I agree with Matt. I listen to music that tends to complement my mood, but I do really only listen to music with lyrics that I agree with (which is pretty much just 'Christian' music). For me, stuff with cuss words or damaging themes just gets in my head and swirls around, influencing me whether I want it to or not. Maybe I'm weak, but my experience has been Garbage In, Garbage Out. I think everything affects you to a point.

Most of the stuff I listen to is probably a lot like your music, MetalMan. Check out this goodness: http://artists.mp3s.com/artists/356/norma_jean.html . They're lyrics are great (though probably impossible to understand without the lyrics book). Christian guys who scream their guts out about Christian topics in a non-cheesy way.

BlazeQ

Member

Posts: 260
From: USA
Registered: 05-11-2002
I recently heard Evanescence and bought their CD, awesome music with some songs that lyrically sounded Christian. A couple of songs I wondered about however.

Then a couple days later Rolling Stones released this article: http://www.rollingstone.com/news/newsarticle.asp?nid=17904

I don't feel peace listening to them anymore. Great alternatives are Earthsuit and The Benjamin Gate. Awesome stuff.

BlazeQ

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I'm out of my mind... and into the mind of Christ -G.S. Megaphone

nfektious
Member

Posts: 408
From:
Registered: 10-25-2002
My kudos to Meltzer of Wind-Up for taking the initiative (although sadly in regret) to subject "Christian" label musicians to live out the label "Christian". Too many musicians (religious and secular) have succumb to the fame and fortune and forsaken the whole purpose of doing what they do.
Although I applaud the effort for musicians of the Christian worldview to seek out an audience segment in the secular entertainment industry I think it is all to important for them to maintain their original calling - that of being Christians foremost and musicians second. Sadly so many popular Christian musicians (actually many artists of different trades) think they have the right to entertain because they are involved in an artform that is designed solely for that purpose.
I don't see anything wrong with entertainment as long as it is enjoyed in the perspective that it is supposed to be. Entertainment at its core is a distraction from reality and should be treated as a sort of recess from dealing with the burdens of life. Too many people use Entertainment as an escape from reality completely- much like alcohol or other drugs - to avoid any responsible behavior.
Clearly there is a fine line between entertaining and being entertained, and there are limits to both. The truth is that those limits are relative to the person - the entertainer and the entertainee. Each needs to be aware of those limits and be responsible accordingly. I'm not saying there is a license to avoid being responsible when the pressures of life overcome; I'm stating that in the order of responsibilities for each one of us, entertainment should be the last thing we let our minds entertain (pun intended).

God bless,
Matt

c h i e f y

Member

Posts: 415
From: Surrey, United Kingdom
Registered: 03-07-2002
BKewl is right, cuss words and damaging themes are negative vibes for the brain

I'd say it's a combination of the lyrics AND the quality of music combined

for me the joker is top notch
diamond standard in fact
anybody else know that top song?

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from your old mate
c h i e f y
global chiefy to yer old seafarin' maties

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003

quote:

Metalman, you sound like a very interesting character (but in a good kinda way!).


I just hope that it's not the "I would like to keep your brain in a jar of glass for further studies" kind of way

I have to say that all of you have made some really good points,
and again I have to agree with everyone who sais evanesvence is very good.

And btw, Norma Jean sounds like something I could listen to alot!
*headbanging right now*
Does anyone think it's possible to plant subliminal messages in your brain to make you do stuff you wouldn't normally do through music?

I'm just curious..

Howdy chiefy, I can't remember the last time I visited a forum without seeing you

Phew... "Norma Jean- the human face devined" sounds great! Many thanks for the tip!!

Cheers

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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...

rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
BlazeQ: I'm a huge Benjamin Gate fan - well I have both of their albums and they're my fav albums. Does anybody know of any other bands like them ?

I read that article about Evanescence. I think they're being treated very unfairly by the Christian music industry.

U2 are a good example of a band that sings very good and blatantly Christian songs but refuses to be hijacked by the Christian music industry. And because of that, non-believers all over the world are listening to their music, which they wouldn't do if they marketed themselves as a Christian band.

Evanescence may have said "we're not a ministry band", but I think they are already doing a lot more ministering than bands who have gone out under such a title. They are meeting a generation of people where they are at. They are expressing conflict and turmoil which people can identify with, but offering the hope of salvation. Not so different from the Psalmist singing a lament.

As for the issue of Evanescence using swear words. So did Paul the Apostle! Are we so f*****g judgemental? It breaks my heart when I'm witnessing to non-christians and they get so apologetic for their language, because they just expect christians to judge them for swearing.

"Tonight thousands of people on this earth will die of starvation. Most of you will not give a sh*t. And most of you will be more upset with the fact that I said, 'sh*t' than that thousands of people will die tonight."
--Tony Campolo

Some thoughts , God Bless

Angel

Member

Posts: 699
From: The Blissful State Of Me?
Registered: 05-21-2001
Not this subject again I posted lots of my views in the other one... so I will just stay out of this one.
~Angel~
Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
One of the first churches I went to considered a video about what rock songs say when you play them backwards to be an effective form of youth outreach. When I showed another guitar player there my new distorion pedal he said ( and I quote ) 'aren't they just used to play that satanic music that makes people want to kill themselves ?'. It's very sad when people have such preconcieved ideas, especially when the radio is full of friendly, poppy music that lyrically condones sin as much as any form of music does. People simply sing about what they know, and in the world, that means sin. For me, I'd rather listen to music I like than accept sub standard music because it's sold in a religious bookstore, I'd rather simply block out songs about fornication than listen to people sing bad doctrine. Having said that, Rez ( a.k.a. the Resurrection Band ) are simply awesome, if you can get their music, it's worth it. I also would draw the line at bands that sing about Satan, that's just not on in my opinion.

But that's just me. I don't think music is a hard and fast thing, it's obvious that no beat or lyric can make you do something you don't want to. I do however not advertise my love of Motley Crue and Metallica all over the church, because I am sure some older people will be offended. That's just scriptural, not using my ability to listen with a clear conscience to offend a 'weaker' brother. I do find it amusing that Ozzy, who was the subject of such fear from the churches in the 80's, is totally acceptable and somewhat cartoonish nowadays, as we've realised that the kids who listened to him managed to grow up unscarred, and become productive adults.

Speaking of which, I may put some Ozzy on right now.....

ArchAngel

Member

Posts: 3450
From: SV, CA, USA
Registered: 01-29-2002
I personally think that christians who say that rock is evil are being superstitious. However, I do believve music does reflect the artist and such. Also, lyrics are a big thing for me, thus I mostly listen to christian. Linkin park is cool, listen to them every once in a while. I don't listen to Korn, BlackSabbath, etc.
I pretty much like Rock (P.O.D.!!!), Techno, a little pop everyonce in while, Classical can be good, hip hop and rap, close to everything except country. I can't stand country.

I'd say music can affect behavior. Some music can make you cry, some can make you laugh, some can make you mad, some can make you excited.

I love music. Playing it, listening to it. Music good. (i'm listening to it now.

Keeping a brain in a jar of glass for further studies. Not bad.

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Fight(as in overkill) the Good Fight of Faith...

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
Do you *know* what Black Sabbath sing about ? Just curious....

AmazingJas

Member

Posts: 437
From: Sydney, NSW, AUSTRALIA
Registered: 04-03-2003
[/QUOTE]
I just hope that it's not the "I would like to keep your brain in a jar of glass for further studies" kind of way
[/QUOTE]

LOL, just made me think of one of those old black and white horror movies with that short cross-eyed guy with the creepy voice who says something like "Maaaaster, the haanndd, it's moooving!". No, not in that kind of way, you just sound a lot like my younger self. In a couple of years I bet you'll get really excited about a Barbara Streisand concert.

I remember REZ, are they still around? I used to find their music a bit 'tinny' but I seem to remember one song, I think called Resurrection Shuffle, which I really liked.

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003
@christian: Allthough I enjoy their music I have to confess I've never bothered to listen to their lyrics, I know they wasn't living the healthiest of lives, and that they sang of demons, funerals and drugs, that's about all I know about their lyrics. So please inform me a bit.

@AmazingJas: Ohhh.. I actually though of the orignal Frankenstein movie when I wrote that... "I have a brrrain masterrr"
Hmm.. I guess we'll just have to wait and see if I turn out to be like you in the future, I doubt I'll be exited about Barbara Streissand though
I even doubt I will end up having the same christian belief as you, but who knows?

Thank you all for your input guys, I really appreciate it...

Cheers

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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
Black Sabbath live as unhealthy a life as any rock band in the world, and have a few songs that advocate drug use. I can't think of any songs about demons, perhaps you're thinking of 'War Pigs', which is about generals sending common people with no interest off to war to die. They actually have a song which is about Christ dying for people, and people being apathetic about it. I forget it's name. The name of the band came from a movie, they thought that if people liked scary movies, they might like scary music as well.

I'm not suggesting Black Sabbath is the most wholesome music in the world, lyrically, but I would say they are no better and no worse than the top 40. On the down side, a few drug songs, on the up side, no songs about fornication, and one called 'Dirty Women' which suggests that a morally loose lifestyle is not a good thing ( a theme Ozzy explored with his first solo album in the song 'No Bone Movies' as well ).

To answer the other post, I dunno if Rez is still going, I thought their last album I heard was not very good anyhow, so maybe not. But in their day, songs like 'Child of the blues' and 'Love Comes Down' were as good as Christian rock could ever be, sort of ACDC with more of a blues influence.

MetalMan, I just spotted the end bit of your post, I have a question. If you don't have a Christian belief, what drew you here ? Are you interested in knowing about Christianity, or just interested in our views on music ? Christianity in the Bible is not Barbra Streisand, and being a wimp. It's about God doing real things in your life that make you happier and better off. It's about God's love and power, not about being a pushover, or having some belief in the absence of any proof, or evidence.

[This message has been edited by christian (edited April 26, 2003).]

CobraA1

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Posts: 926
From: MN
Registered: 02-19-2001
*grabs popcorn from nearby thread *

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There are only 10 types of people - those who understand binary, and those who don't.

ArchAngel

Member

Posts: 3450
From: SV, CA, USA
Registered: 01-29-2002
*grabs a handful of popcorn, and sips soda*

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Fight(as in overkill) the Good Fight of Faith...

BlazeQ

Member

Posts: 260
From: USA
Registered: 05-11-2002
rowanseymour,
The article states that it was the band that made the choice and so their own record company pulled them from the Christian music industry.

By the article, Evanescense was doing fine marketed as a secular AND Christian band. But apparently, they didn't want anything to do with the Christian market.

We will know Christians by their fruits. What is it saying to non-Christians when Christians do the exact opposite of what even non-Christians know that Christians try not to do? (in an interview no less)

As for Apostle Paul, I don't know about that. Never heard anything on that score. But even if he did, he was a human, and we are supposed to be like Jesus, not Paul.

As Christians we are certainly not supposed to condemn for their sins those we personally know, but I believe we should be careful of what we surround ourselves with (e.g. music, movies, etc...) lest we fall and succumb to the worlds way of thinking. If Evanescense is like that in an interview, then somewhere along the line it will show through in their music and I would prefer not to get attached to them.

I believe non-Christians are appologetic for their language because they know that most Christians hold high morals and guard against what they say.

If you question why Christians do this it's because the words have rude and filthy meanings or are disrespectful to God and man. The most important thing as a Christian is to love those around you. That doesn't mean do what they do, it means accept them for who they are and do what God wants you to do for them.

I think I've rambled on enough. Anybody agree? Disagree? Hate me? Love me?

Forgot to say: Did you check out Earthsuit? My all-time favorite and similar to TBG. Plumb is also similar to TBG (at least the record Candy Coated Waterdrops is, haven't heard the others).

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I'm out of my mind... and into the mind of Christ -G.S. Megaphone

[This message has been edited by BlazeQ (edited April 27, 2003).]

rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
hey blazeQ

Christian attitudes to swearing is a tounchy subject for me. I'm Irish, and the Irish tend to swear a lot - it's a cultural thing - and most of the time its just part of normal conversation. And so for me there is a huge difference between vulgar/sexual language, and use of swearwords for emphasis or expression of strong emotion. Myself and many of my Christian friends would swear in each others company, as part of normal relationship-building conversation.

Then I see other groups of Christians here who are so preoccupied with telling people not to swear or drink or smoke or anything they deem unchristian that they manage to go through life without ever getting to know a non-christian.

I respect that you and others don't like hearing swear words, so I won't swear in front of you - which is why I'm apologizing for my last post.

And I don't think non-christians who apologize to me for their swearing are doing it out of conviction of sin, but out of a fear of judgement. We would all agree I'm sure, that judging one's neighbour is a greater sin than swearing.

As for Evanescence, I dunno..., let's pray for them

ArchAngel

Member

Posts: 3450
From: SV, CA, USA
Registered: 01-29-2002
actually, the Bible doesn't seem to strict on swearing. It almost seems like a rule we made. Though swearing can reflect badly on oneself.
I'd say there are alot worse things going around. Swearing can be overblown; It could make us Pharisees. I'm not justifying it, or anything. I don't swear.

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Fight(as in overkill) the Good Fight of Faith...

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
You're incorrect, the Bible says not to offend anyone for any reason, that means that while it may not offend a younger person, you also need to not offend older people. Also:

Col 3:8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

That's open to interpretation, can I suggest if the WORLD thinks something is 'filthy communication', we'd look silly if we attempted to disagree ?

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
whoops - I should add this. I stopped swearing, through no effort of my own, when I became a Christian, but I don't care if people around me swear. If they are not a Christian, why should they pretend to be something they are not, when they are near me ? That would be hypocritical, and judgemental on my part. People swear around me all the time, I don't make a fuss about it, I just enjoy explaining why I don't when asked. Drinking is good that way, too.
rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
quote:
Originally posted by christian:
You're incorrect, the Bible says not to offend anyone for any reason

You're not reading what he is saying. There is a difference between swearing and offending people. I would challenge you to offend anyone just by swearing in some of the pubs near my house , and of course we don't need swear words to offend people.

BlazeQ

Member

Posts: 260
From: USA
Registered: 05-11-2002
Here in the US (or at least in Texas) it's looked upon as socially unacceptable to swear. I've seen non-Christian adults get embarrased or apologize when they cuss in the presence of a child. So, yeah, I'd say opposition to swearing is a cultural thing.

Though I think using Jesus & God as swear words is wrong wherever a person in (check the 10 commandments for that one :-).

quote:
And I don't think non-christians who apologize to me for their swearing are doing it out of conviction of sin, but out of a fear of judgement. We would all agree I'm sure, that judging one's neighbour is a greater sin than swearing.
I didn't mean out of conviction of sin, but because they don't want to offend the person (which is essentially what you are saying anyway).

quote:
As for Evanescence, I dunno..., let's pray for them
Yep, that's what I was thinking

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I'm out of my mind... and into the mind of Christ -G.S. Megaphone

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
It's true that a lot of people are not offended by swearing nowadays ( although most would agree it is 'filthy language' by any standard ), but the question is twofold

1. Some people will still be offended, we are to be all things to all men. If I simply don't swear around old people, for example, won't any young people who have heard me swear presume I am a hypocrite and that all the other things I say I don't do, such as fornicate or lie, are also things I do when it seems I can get away with it, and

2. Even people who swear would be surprised that a Christian would, and I'd suggest in most cases, presume that if we swear, it's an example of how we speak of holiness but do not live up to it.

It's not about play acting, it's about being all things to all men, so by all means we can save some.

Soul Joy

Member

Posts: 35
From: Hallettsville, TX , USA
Registered: 12-18-2002
A few links for you to check out.
Hearken out of Houston Texas who is one of our prayer partners. Go to his link section and it should be loaded with some good music that is Christian
http://members.tripod.com/~hearken/

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Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions."

InsanePoet

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Posts: 638
From: Vermont, USA
Registered: 03-12-2003
Swearing:

Personally, many swear words arn't all that bad. The only reason I don't use them is because it's culturally unacceptable.

s*** - seriously, it means poop, that's all, why is it a swear?
d*** - means condemn, same as above, why it's a forbidden word beats me.
f*** - means For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge. Why it's used as as swear is beyond me. Personally it's a meaningless and stupid word and i wouldn't use it anyway. So, we should condemn ppl who use it for being stupid.
a** - either meaning, donkey, someone who is stubborn, or butt. What's the big deal.
the B words i would never use, just because of their sexual innotations.
and of course using the Lord's name in vain is wrong w/ or w/o the swear words.

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"I find myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world!"
-C. S. Lewis


midnight-fire.org

BlazeQ

Member

Posts: 260
From: USA
Registered: 05-11-2002
I've always known the f word to have a much worse meaning. I've heard the d word is a swear because it's as if we are telling God what to do (do this to that person/thing) and judging it to have no worth (to send it to eternal separation from God is just about the worst thing).

As for the others, I agree, they're stupid. Just things that people started using to vent their anger I guess and now it's a no-no to say them.

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I'm out of my mind... and into the mind of Christ -G.S. Megaphone

[This message has been edited by BlazeQ (edited April 27, 2003).]

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
That's too funny. I'm actually listening to that Van Halen album right now, but I'm afraid that it was a swear word long before VH managed to make an anagram for it.

As for the rest, you said it yourself, it's unacceptable because society says so. You can justify it any way you want, but you can't change what the Bible says.

InsanePoet

Member

Posts: 638
From: Vermont, USA
Registered: 03-12-2003
True, but, many of those words are in themselves are perfectly acceptable words save the fact that the society labels them unacceptable.

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"I find myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world!"
-C. S. Lewis


midnight-fire.org

ArchAngel

Member

Posts: 3450
From: SV, CA, USA
Registered: 01-29-2002
quote:
christian:
You're incorrect (blah blah blah, about swearing


I did present my self wrong. I didn't say the Bible didn't claim it wrong. Let no unclean come out of your mouth...
I was pointing out that it places more emphasis on hypocricy and such.

I am one of the last people to regard something as right or wrong because of what society says. Though it seems like swearing is a little different than that. Mostly what's wrong about swearing is what other people think. Now the heart, that's a slightly, but not entirely, different matter.

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Fight(as in overkill) the Good Fight of Faith...

Klumsy

Administrator

Posts: 1061
From: Port Angeles, WA, USA
Registered: 10-25-2001
swearing huh..

interesting topic..

i'd say "is swearing the sort of edifying , good talk that the bible encourages us to use".. i don't think so.. even if its in a context where its just a common word..

And yes in different cultures (or subcultures) the severity, and level of offense from it differs. But that doesn't neccisarily make it right. It can be cultural or a habit, but there are many things that are cultural that are wrong, and many habits that are wrong also.. in some cultures wifebeating is an acceptable practice, in others cannibalism even!..
and whether it offends or not.. its common that in men's bathrooms in of lowlevel industry workers to have pornography splattered all over the wall, and it doesn't offend the majority of those people.. but i'm sure it offends God..

So as a christian growing in maturity i would say practice ridding yourself of swearing , even the mild ones (or the safe 'christianised ones like my grandmother says 'belly' instead of bloddy.. and people say friggin isn't of f***ing).. because they are not profitible , they are not edifying, and they are not needed..

however i'm not offended by other people saying them..
and as christians sometimes we can get hooked up in the whole judgemental thing and images things , and that is not good.. focusing on the externals.. There are more important things than the externals of smoking, swearing etc etc.. i think God would much rather some christians smoke and drink and let God work in them from the inside out, than religiously be the nice christian on the outside and hold on to inner darkness and rebellion against God on the inside.. but still these things are not profitible - smoking, swearing.. as our Body is a temple of the holy spirit and we should treat it as such..

I myself grew up with an abusive stepfather whose every second word was a swearword. i've sworn alot and my siblings swear alot still. I barely swear these days.. Never in anger, and never commonly.. maybe once or twice a month.. when i have carefully thought about it, and i use the word very carefully for specific purpose, as i believe that it will communicate something to whom i am talking to, one) because they know i don't use such words lightly and two) because in the context its the most expressive word to get the message accross.. But i don't let such occassions become a habit.

some scriptures for thought

luke 6:45
A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart[7 ] brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Psa 19:14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be pleasing in your sight,
O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Eph 5:4 neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.

Culture is a great thing, The harvest of the church, the bride of Christ according the bible will be diverse from all the enthos (cultural groups) of the world. it is an amazing thing.

I believe that in every culture, there are good Godly things that God has placed in it.. things we can all learn from.. I also believe He has placed Gospel eye openers in cultures as well.. something in their culture that is a doorway for the gospel to be communicated..
In cultures there are things are (in God's eyes) very good profitible, good, spritually nuetral but cuturally rich, things that are spiritually wrong - but by association only, things that a like a benign tumor - best to get it taken care of in the end, but also things that are definately spiritually wrong, and harmful..
As christians we can hold onto elements of our culture, there are many God things.. when an african becomes a christian they don't have to become a middle class white republican american christian .. However we all have to be willing to sacrfice our culture to God, we have to be willing to sacrfice anything about ourselves to God, and Let God shape in Us HIS culture, the culture of heaven.. And its in submitting certian cultural things to God that allows God to redeem the good thiings of our culture in us.

then i suppose i could get onto the problems with 'church' culture..
but hey this is a discussion about 'swearing'..
or is it meant to be a discussion about music?

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Karl /GODCENTRIC
Visionary Media
the creative submitted to the divine.
Husband of my amazing wife Aleshia
Klumsy@xtra.co.nz

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
Interestingly, all the times I 'gave my heart to Jesus', my manner of speech did not change. When I became a Christian I never swore again, I just never thought of it.

But I should add to all those arguing social acceptability, fornication is fully accepted in our society today. Does that make it right for a Christian ?

Angel

Member

Posts: 699
From: The Blissful State Of Me?
Registered: 05-21-2001
wow a chit-chat that even i can find something funny in. I mean honnistly swearing is just a way to exspress oneself in a simple and ignorent way. I much reather let you know how you "you remind me of a pigs rotting intestens" then to call you a "$#$% Head".

As for the B word it only means femail dog and is reather a mid-english turm then anything. I can think of much worss things to call someone. Like "cat vomit that has been re-eaten by a cat and then poopped out", but hay thats just me, I just feel like if im going to make you feel like crap I better do it in a demeaning and clearly understude manner. Still what ive sead just now without any cussing could be considered very bad talking. Sorry if I offended anyone.

On a more serius note: I agree that such words as mentiuned above should not be used for the bennifit of others. Many dont understand the meaning or the correct use of any of those words.

~Angel~

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003
How about a non christians view on swearing?
I fully agree with Angel.

A few years ago I could build an entire sentance with nothing but swear words, now I'd rather use regular words to build a sentance, with words that is not considered as bad, I just think that sais more than cursing.

I think what got me thinking was when I heard other people talking and swearing a lot like I did, I found their speach uninteresting and boring,
I wanted to say things with more meaning.

This turned out to be such an interesting topic I didn't want to ruin it with my answer on why I'm here, and since I have not presented myself I'll do that together with an explanation on why I'm here in another topic, just to let you know who I am, ok? (wouldn't want to ruin two topics in such a short notice )

Cheers

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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
I agree, Angel, that when people swear a lot that it shows they are ignorant. It's kind of amusing to me that you consider yourself well spoken, but it takes five minutes to read your atrociously spelled posts.

It's also sad that you are so self righteous on this issue, and unwilling to take the Bible into consideration. But rejoice, the non-Christians agree with you. In what camp does that leave you ?

There are more important issues than swearing, but if we remain willfully ignorant of the smallest issues, how can we be expected to grasp the bigger ones. I don't mean to be harsh, but I am utterly astounded.

rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
quote:
Originally posted by christian:
Interestingly, all the times I 'gave my heart to Jesus', my manner of speech did not change.

Is that a reflection on you or Jesus ?

Swearing and drinking are outward things that we do. They are relatively easy to change, and easy to see in other people. Changes of heart do not come so easily.

When I was in California I was shocked by Christians saying "suck it" to each other. They didn't swear and didn't think there was anything wrong with saying "suck it". Cultural differences - don't tell a guy in Belfast to "suck it".

Christian
Member

Posts: 400
From: Australia
Registered: 09-15-2002
quote:

Is that a reflection on you or Jesus ?

That's a fair enough question. In each case I sought to follow Jesus with everything I had, so if my attitude did not change, it seems to me that the difference was the power of God.

quote:

Swearing and drinking are outward things that we do. They are relatively easy to change, and easy to see in other people.

Are you saying that there is no such thing as addiction ? I could not change my drinking and did not even think to want to change my swearing. I was never convicted of it, in the sense of feeling the need to change, I just changed.

quote:

Changes of heart do not come so easily.

That is probably true, but addictions are also not easy to beat. Nor are habits, come to think of it.

quote:

When I was in California I was shocked by Christians saying "suck it" to each other. They didn't swear and didn't think there was anything wrong with saying "suck it". Cultural differences - don't tell a guy in Belfast to "suck it".

See, that is just my point. The Bible says not to allow 'filthy communication'. What is filthy is surely in the eye of the beholder, wouldn't you agree ?

[edit] Made a mess of the quote tags :-) [/edit]

[This message has been edited by christian (edited April 28, 2003).]

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003
quote:

I much reather let you know how you "you remind me of a pigs rotting intestens" then to call you a "$#$% Head".


Ouch.. I have to start reading more carefully, this is a part Angel said that I do NOT agree with...
Allthough I know I sometimes insult people when I get hurt, I really try to tell them what's wrong instead of go to the insulting or name-calling part, cause that's not very constructive in my opinion.

On a side note, I agree with him that it's more fun using your own words instead of premade curse-words.
Instead of saying "My head hurts like h*ll" I'd rather say "It feels like thousands of elephants have practised tap-dancing on my head"..

That's what I was trying to say...
Anyway, carry on.

Cheers

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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...

[This message has been edited by MetalMan (edited April 28, 2003).]

AmazingJas

Member

Posts: 437
From: Sydney, NSW, AUSTRALIA
Registered: 04-03-2003
Not swearing, takes a lot of discipline and is a worthy achievement. From a practical point of view, if you abstain from swearing 99% of the time, and then that 1% let an absolute ripper go, BOY WHAT AN EFFECT IT HAS!! But I still don't like swearing, and cant condone it.
Angel

Member

Posts: 699
From: The Blissful State Of Me?
Registered: 05-21-2001
Actuly MetalMan I could probly guess who you are by reading what you had to say. My spelling has always been a flaw but in person I can speek clearly and acuritly.

MetalMan I may have come off wrong in my post. I did not mean that I want to go around and hurt people left and right. Still I sometimes run into people who wish to have disputes with me and some of the conversations get rather ugly. I was just showing an example. In real life im well known for being blunt and detailed about subjects that most people shy from.

~Angel~

rowanseymour

Member

Posts: 284
From: Belfast, Northern Ireland
Registered: 02-10-2001
BlazeQ: I checked out Plumb and I love em

The best lyrics I've ever heard in a Christian song is still Amazing Grace . Written about 1770 by ex-slave trader John Newton.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,
I once was lost but now am found,
Was blind, but now, I see.

T'was Grace that taught...
my heart to fear.
And Grace, my fears relieved.
How precious did that Grace appear...
the hour I first believed.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...
we have already come.
T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...
and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...
His word my hope secures.
He will my shield and portion be...
as long as life endures.

Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess, within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.

The world shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun refuse to shine;
But God, who called me here below,
Shall be forever mine.

When we've been here a thousand years...
bright shining as the sun.
We've no less days to sing God's praise...
then when we've first begun.

ArchAngel

Member

Posts: 3450
From: SV, CA, USA
Registered: 01-29-2002
quote:
rowanseymour:
Changes of heart do not come so easily.

Only God can change the heart.

and of course, easy is a relative term. changing outward things are easy to change compared to the heart, which you can't even change!

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Fight(as in overkill) the Good Fight of Faith...

[This message has been edited by ArchAngel (edited April 29, 2003).]

BlazeQ

Member

Posts: 260
From: USA
Registered: 05-11-2002
quote:
Originally posted by rowanseymour:
BlazeQ: I checked out Plumb and I love em


Awesome

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I'm out of my mind... and into the mind of Christ -G.S. Megaphone

MetalMan

Member

Posts: 25
From: Outer space
Registered: 04-22-2003
Angel, I have not said anything about your spelling, I couldn't care less about that, all of my best friends are dyslectic so I know not everyone spells correctly, and my native language is not even english so I think it would be wrong of me complaining about spelling when I have the same problems but with grammar instead.

I'm sorry if I made it sound like you are someone that always go around insulting people though, that was not my meaning.

Take care

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Don't hate me for who I am, hate me for what I do instead...