The Bible does not explicitly mention "world music" as understood in contemporary terms, but it does contain verses that encourage believers to focus on godly things and avoid influences that may lead them away from God's teachings. Here are seven verses that can be interpreted as guidance regarding music and influences in the world:
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Philippians 4:8:
"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." -
1 John 2:15-17:
"Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever." -
Colossians 3:2:
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." -
James 4:4:
"You adulterous people! Don't you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God." -
Romans 12:2:
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." -
Ephesians 5:19:
"Speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord." -
Psalm 101:3:
"I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it."
While these verses do not specifically address music in terms of "worldly" music, they do emphasize a life focused on godliness, the importance of what we allow into our minds and hearts, and the desire to cultivate a spirit that honors God.
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