How far would you go?

[floaded27]

If there was a group that had some of the dopest musicians and singers, and there was opportunity to either learn from some of the best or possibly go places, would you turn them down because you know that the behavior and/or lifestyles of some of the people involved are questionable or just flat out not right?

I ask this because I see so many groups either at church events or on youtube and it seems that a lot of folks dont have any discretion. That people dont say "whoa, y'all outta line here. i cant be part of this"

Is integrity something you'll push aside just for an opportunity to play?

[phbrown]

sorry Floaded I never been in that situation ...

[browntree]

That's a tough one to answer for someone else.  For myself, I realize that like other Christians, musicians aren't perfect.  Their behavior can be questionable... maybe you might see my behavior as questionable.  This is why I think Matthew 7 and Romans 2 are important (to me). 

I believe integrity is a thing of self-reflection.  You can truly only question your own, because no one really knows the complete heart of another. 

Knowledge is knowledge... if you can obtain it without compromising your own integrity, go for it.  If not, seek another source.  This is just my humble opinion...

[StooB]

First I would commend you for thinking that if you are to play with people like you said, but if you aren't, it's a great question and a horrible situation for the budding musician as you always want to put yourselves out there, and of course, play the big gigs.
A lot of people admire John Arnott and the Todd Bentley crowd, but my soul doesn't feel at all comfortable with that and I have been considered to play bass at conferences where I live in Norway with John Arnott but I will refuse as I'm not happy with that.

If you don't stand up for what is right, how can you be salt and light? But of course we are in the world, but not of it.

If you are faithful in the small things, God will reward you with the big things.

[dwashsr]

 That very thing came up with me a few months ago. Was on my way to church (with bass of course) when someone asked if it was a guitar or bass? When I said bass he said "we need a bass player". My question to him was what and where do you play? He says in different bars. Not only do I play bass but am also a preacher. For me there is no way I can be in the bar/club Fri. and Sat. then in the pulpit on Sunday.
 On the flip side of the coin though if someone makes their living as a musician they would have a decision to make for self.

[StooB]

That's completely right what you said. Although there is nothing completely wrong in playing in those situations, it can be dangerous for the christian musician. But sometimes the worst thing for a new convert who has regularly played in that environment, would be to come completely away from it whereas they can be salt and light in those situations and a good influence on the people they deal with on a regular basis, we all must ask for our own direction in life.

A christian musician shouldn't have the excuse and the desperation to need to play in every situation to get these opportunities. It's about integrity and the love for God. There are plenty of prosperity preaching churches and liberal emerging churches I would never consider to play at either, however big they are. The Lord will put me in the right place at the right time. Above all, I want my place in the orchestra in heaven

[phbrown]

Above all, I want my place in the orchestra in heaven

lol, that just reminded me of a thought I had when i was younger, I was like I wonder if I can play the drums in heaven or will I need to stand in line to play for 30 seconds ....

[cordney]

lol, that just reminded me of a thought I had when i was younger, I was like I wonder if I can play the drums in heaven or will I need to stand in line to play for 30 seconds ....

Random

[StooB]

all the fills will fit... And we won't have to worry about whether the other musicians are saved or not.

Lol 

This thread has completely run out of control 

[phbrown]

ROFL!!!

[BassbyGrace]

I'll admit, Ive come to the point where if its church, I dont have to pull my bass out.  There have been times where I could tell the spirit of the other bandsmen were not about God but just about showing off and they were just there to do whatever, and I just put my bass on the stand.  People would look at me like, "Whats up?" and Im like, "naa, Im good".  I play bass for a living (army band), so other gigs I cant really control, but when it comes to church and worshipping, its about ministry.  Not saying everyone is always anointed and saved, but I draw the line at a certain point. 

[floaded27]

lol, that just reminded me of a thought I had when i was younger, I was like I wonder if I can play the drums in heaven or will I need to stand in line to play for 30 seconds ....

"And i John saw a number that no man can number...... they were from the tribe of Zildjian"

I think thats in Revelations somewhere. lol

[phbrown]

"And i John saw a number that no man can number...... they were from the tribe of Zildjian"

I think thats in Revelations somewhere. lol

ROFL!!!!

[superjaay]

I am glad this topic has come up. Not as a bass player but as a gospel singer I have been faced with this issue on several occasions. I thought at fist that if would just give it some time the other group members would straighten up.........didn't happen. It seemed that the more talented the grup was, the more the enemy dug in to destroy us.  Now since I have matured some spiritually I know to get out as soon as you become aware of immoral behavior, unless you are willing to confront the perpetraitors and help them change their ways in Jesus' name. The only other option is to flee the presence of evil.....just my opinion. Nowadays as a bass player I don't even get involved until I know what 's going on with a group of musicians (pray for discernment)