Non-believing musicians on Stage???

Non-christian musicians on stage??? It's amazing how contradictory this issue can be. When I first heard the concept of inviting musicians from the secular world, to tell you the truth, I was not all on board. It seemed so strange having "worship leaders" on stage that weren't Christian. It's pretty simple actually. If you believe in the philosophy of "everyone on stage is a worship leader", you might as well stop reading now. But keep reading if you're curious.

I first heard this concept in California. You guessed it, Saddleback. I was able to see an enthusiastic born again Christian talking of his journey with Christ. If it wasn't for someone who invited him to play trumpet for Easter, he would of still been playing at bars. But there he stood, before other music leaders and musicians training, building and encouraging them. He had an awesome testimony. This gave me a new perspective. That one person, being saved by embracing his musical gifts and by offering relationships and acceptance. He ended up being the horn section leader at Saddleback.

In order for this concept to work you should break away from the philosophy of 'everyone on stage is a worship leader.' I do agree that there should always be a 'lead worshiper' who leads not only the congregation but also the accompanist in a time of worship. It is during that time that everyone around is impacted by God's presence, even the 'non-believing' musician. I believe environments influence people. Why not bring your unbelieving friend to this environment? That's if you can stay strong and able to influence them, not the other way around. Allow them in the door, let them use their gifts and lead them towards intimate relationship with Christ through acceptance and witness.

Ask God for discernment and strength. Of course there will be those who you might have to turn away (no Satan worshipers on stage). Get me right, it is those who are seeking, those who've had a bad break or a bad experience that you want to bring back to Him.

We were all wired in a unique way. Your gift might be something else, like technology, website design, graphics, hospitality. Why is it ok to hire these things out and allow non-christians to handle these areas, yet not able to use gifted musicians non-believers on stage? Musicians need acceptance and good influences too. I encourage you to move politics and tradition aside and let God's craftsmanship be used for what it was created for. Guide them and thank them for their time and gifts. Usually, if a non-believer agrees to play at a church, they know what they are getting into and it might be safe to say that they are certainly seeking for something. It will be a new experience for them in their journey of faith.

Remember the curtain is broken when Christ laid on the cross. Not only the priest are allowed in His Holy Temple. No more rituals or man made cleansing is needed.

Let's bring people to His presence, for it is by being in His presences and through Christ's blood that we are all cleansed. The barrier was torn away! Let's lead those who are seeking in the right direction, just a step at a time. Remove any man made barriers. Let's use God's given gifts to bring Him glory. He didn't ask us to screen or filter, He asked us to lead and make disciples. Music is a great tool for both believers to worship and non-believers to experience. Stay strong and break away barriers!

Don't limit your music ministry. Believe it or not, this might bring your music ministry up a notch in musicianship.

What are your thoughts on all this? I'm just throwing it out there....