Unfortunately, though, we have allowed his music to become as meaningful to us as it is to those who do not follow Jesus. We know that light should have no relationship with darkness, but with every stream, album drop, and memory with his voice serenading in the background, Jesus followers have been in fellowship with R. Kelly. Put simply, we have had a lack of conviction when it comes to music.

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It may be difficult to admit that perhaps we have enjoyed R. Kelly’s music because even the most explicit of his messages speak to us. Might this be because there are places in our lives that we keep separate from the influence of the Holy Spirit?  If we have had “uncircumcised ears” or have been unwilling to hear from God in this area, it may be necessary for us, too, to repent.

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You see, music has the power to prime the heart. It can prime us to feel at home in environments where we should feel uncomfortable, and it can prime us to be uncertain in areas where Scripture has provided clarity. If the church is going to shape culture for the better, we must prime our hearts to seek the Lord where media and music is concerned. 

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Scripture tells us that maintaining relationships with evil will eventually corrupt our character. As with relationships, the music that we spend considerable time with will shape our values, desires and ultimately our decisions. Thusly, the music that culture embraces will do the same for culture. We must not be deceived into thinking music doesn't matter. 

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Keep company with R. Kelly and there will be many things with which we don’t see nothing wrong. And it will be easy to justify such music’s place in our lives, despite the obvious conflict with essential Christian values. R. Kelly persuaded Aaliyah into thinking that age ain’t nothing but a number and the culture sang right along. What else has R. Kelly taught us? Who else do we need to mute?

 

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Group Discussion:

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1. What role has music played in your life? Which songs have been on the soundtrack of key moments in your life?

2. In general, do you think it is possible to separate an artist from his/her music? Does one reflect the other?

3. Reflect on the following statement:  As with relationships, the music that we spend considerable time with will shape the way we see the world and influence our values, desires and decisions. How does the key verse apply? 

4. Are you convinced that the messaging in the music you most frequently listen to has no bearing on your walk as a Jesus-follower? Is this true for others? Is it true for young people?

5. If you were called to mute another artist, which would be the most difficult to delete and why?

6. Music primes the heart. Review the current 5 chart-topping songs. How are these songs priming the heart of culture? How does your favorite music prime your heart?

7. How does wisdom offer freedom as it relates to enjoying secular music?

8. How can Jesus followers reclaim our place as the greatest cultural influencers?

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Personal Homework:

 

1. Consider your decision to mute R. Kelly or not. What are your primary motivations?

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2. Glance over your current playlist. Are all of the songs' messages God-honoring and in line with your values as a Jesus-follower? Have the settings where you have most enjoyed this music been God-honoring?

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Prayer:

Thank you, Father, for the gift of music. We ask that you would give us discernment as we enjoy music and courage as we set out as culture creators. Direct our paths as we purchase, promote and entertain ourselves with music. We are willing to stand up first, to stand alone and to stand with you.