Recently, a local Winter Jam concert sparked a conversation about the direction of contemporary Christian music, particularly regarding the band Family Force 5 and their song “Chainsaw.” While volunteering at the event, my wife witnessed a performance that raised questions about what truly honors God in musical expression. Between sets from artists like Jeremy Camp, who openly affirmed the Bible as the ultimate source of truth, Family Force 5 took the stage with a song featuring lyrics about cranking “it like a chainsaw” accompanied by corresponding dance moves. This sparked confusion and concern, leading to a deeper look into the band and their music.
Unpacking “Chainsaw” by Family Force 5
Initial impressions of “Chainsaw” might leave one puzzled. The song, featuring Tedashii, blends elements of electronic music with aggressive, almost industrial sounds. The lyrics, readily available online, are repetitive and focus on energetic, somewhat chaotic imagery. The music video further amplifies this, presenting a visually busy and arguably over-the-top performance. While some might find the energy infectious, it prompts a critical question: what message, if any, does this convey within a Christian context?
Concerns Regarding Mislabeling and Youth Influence
The primary concern raised by “Chainsaw” isn’t simply about musical taste. It delves into the broader issue of discernment within Christian music and the potential impact on young listeners. When music like this is presented on Christian platforms, especially large events like Winter Jam, it risks blurring the lines of what truly reflects Christian values and teachings. The worry is that labeling such content as “Christian” might mislead young people, suggesting that this type of expression is aligned with or even glorifies God. This could inadvertently set a low bar for what is considered acceptable or even desirable within Christian culture, potentially hindering the spiritual growth and understanding of young believers.
Navigating Discernment in Christian Music
The incident highlights a crucial need for discernment in music. It’s important for parents, church leaders, and young people themselves to critically evaluate the content they consume. While personal preferences in music styles vary, the underlying message and spirit of the music should be examined through a biblical lens. Does it encourage reflection on God, promote love and compassion, or inspire spiritual growth? Or does it prioritize entertainment and sensory stimulation without substantive spiritual depth?
Conclusion: A Call for Prayer and Guidance
The discussion around Family Force 5 and “Chainsaw” serves as a valuable reminder of the ongoing need for discernment in all areas of Christian life, including music. It’s a call to engage in thoughtful conversations with our children and youth about the media they consume and to guide them in developing a discerning ear. Ultimately, it’s a call to prayer – for our youth, for the Christian music industry, and for ourselves, that we may all be guided by wisdom and truth in our choices and expressions of worship.
