My twitter friend, @MilanFord, is a great guy. He was recently disturbed by a very lewd song that was performed at a tribute to Michael Jackson.
Rather than just stand appalled, he decided to quickly build a website (I AM NOT EVERY GIRL.com) and start a movement of people condemning the song and asking radio stations to stop playing it. The movement is a reaction against the degradation of women and a call for dialogue on how the music on the radio affects the younger generation.
He's put in a lot of effort, and done a phenomenal job with his site!
What do you think? Is this how Jesus wants us to respond to depraved songs, movies, TV shows, etc?
Some say yes, some say no. What do you think? And why.
There is no simple answer. This is one of the areas that we must rely on God’s wisdom. Do you lash out at the offense and appear intolerant or look like you trying to shove your morality down someone’s throat? Do we just meekly ignore the offense and send a passive message that we condone it?
All I can really say is what I would do in the situation. I would not listen, but not be shy in letting others know why. I tell those that I have the privilege of teaching and ministering too to be the example. To act the opposite of the world in every situation. People will notice and that gives you an opportunity to boldly explain why do act the way you do and why you lean on God’s view of the world and not your own.
Thanks for a good question. I look forward to following this thread.
Comment by Derek Collins - Jul 02, 2009 @ 09:10 AM
Wow. Very honored by this Jesse.
Thanks.
Comment by Milan Ford - Jul 02, 2009 @ 12:27 PM
As a Christian, a follower of Christ, I cannot ignore an offense against another if I have the ability to do something about it. A Christian who stands on the principles of the Word of God must never be or appear to be tolerant of sin, including the mistreatment of another human being.
This movement is not against Hip Hop music, the music industry, or any other genre of music or entertainment. This movement is against the blatant, public, and unrepentent disrespect and mistreatment of women.
Simply “not listening’ to the the song “Every Girl” or even not listening to stations that play the song, is not enough. Such action only benefits our selves in that we avoid being assaulted by the content. It does not stop the abuse of others. And that, I believe, is the point of this entire exercise. We must be vocal about what we are doing and why. We must make our voices heard in order for our actions to be noticed. Being loud and clear does not have to mean “lashing out”.
Am I being intolerant? Absolutely! I refuse to tolerate the undeserved degradation of any human being.
Comment by Michele Carper-Ruby - Jul 02, 2009 @ 01:02 PM
The need is the CALL! I see what Milan is saying with this new site, NOT on my watch and I agree. Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil. I see a need to raise our daughters as the daughters of Christ. I say Yes. Lets believe Jesus for deliverance for all our fathers to raise young Ladies who are loved and affirmed by their earthly fathers.
Comment by Bill Featherston - Jul 02, 2009 @ 04:47 PM
I checked out the website - it’s great. Thanks for the post and for the awareness.
Comment by alex - Jul 05, 2009 @ 09:24 PM
It’s my belief that Jesus has already told us how to respond in the great commission. Jesus focused more on the heart or source of things and not so much the various expressions of wickedness. This is why we need to be reborn because it is only through rebirth that our NATURE is changed. Evangelism and discipleship is our best and greatest hope. Along the same lines, I’d be interested in knowing your friends position on women in ministry. It may be that the world and media are not the only ones who are degrading women, but the church as well.
Comment by Todd - Jul 06, 2009 @ 10:00 AM