6 Differences Between Christian Music And Secular Music

6 Differences Between Christian Music And Secular Music

Are all types of music the same? Or Are Christian music (Commonly referred to as Gospel Music) and secular music the same? In today’s world where everything has been interchanged, it can be challenging to understand the underlying differences that exist between Christian music and other types of music. It is however important to note that Christian Music and secular music are not the same, Christian artist and secular artists aren’t trying to do the same thing either the producers and promoters attached to the two.

Disclaimer: These differences are from my view in alignment with the scriptures, it might be more or less to another person but based on the scripture and the reality of music, I am able to come up with six differences.

What is Christian Music?

Christian word comes from two different Greek words “Christ” which means “anointed” and “tian” which means “little”. So the word “Christian” means “little anointed ones”.

Christian music is defined as an expression of faith in the Trinity and is an outlet to bring glory to Jesus Christ. This is done through Gospel Music, Worship music, and Praise music. Uplifting / Inspirational and motivational lyrics all focused on the goodness of God.

What is Secular Music?

Secular music is any music that is not religious in nature. The term “Secular” comes from the Latin word “Saeculum” which means “the World”. Therefore, secular music is the type of music concerned with the world’s affairs rather than Christ’s affairs.

Allow me to share with you six differences between Gospel music and secular music (These differences apply to both Christian artists and secular artists).

NB: this blog post is not discouraging anyone or fighting any group from any side, whether you’re a Christian artist or a secular artist. However, It is important to note the differences so that we are not mixed up in our understanding.

1. The lyrical content in Christian music is centered on God, his divine mercies, and goodness whereas secular music’s lyrical content is centered on self, possessions, desires, and achievements. In other words, Christian music adores and magnifies the creator while secular music loves and praises the creations.
2. Christian Lyrics have a biblical foundation. I.e. The lyrics are referenced from the word of God whereas, Secular Music is driven by the temporary feeling of the writer.
3. Christian music is written, composed, and produced through guidance from the Holy Spirit while secular music is formed depending on the vibe/feeling of the beats and rhythm at that moment.
4. Christian music glorifies Jesus Christ through praise and worship while secular music glorifies self, circumstance, possession, or achievements.
5. In Christian music beat rhythm, harmony and melody support the lyrical word while in secular music groove is the center of the song supported by the lyrics.
6. Worship – Here, Jesus is at the center whereas, in secular music worship and elevation are given to the performing artists.

However, it should be noted that both Christian music and secular music can be used for entertainment. As Christians, our choice of entertainment should reflect our identity as believers and give glory to God.

In today`s world, many people including Christians don’t know how to separate between light and darkness, white and black, good and wrong, Holy Spirit-inspired Christian music, and secular music. It is important to note that the two are not the same as it is written in the book of 2 Corinthian 6:14, “Do not be yoked with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common?”

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