Customer Reviews

Why I Left the Contemporary Christian Music Movement: Confessions of a Former Worship Leader

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Great book and interesting, uncomplicated read. 9 out of 10 Christians would probably label this book as opinionated and destroying the progress of the evangelical movement in the America today. But like many episodes in the bible, the minority are frequently correct but overcome by a tide of well-meaning but deluded people.

Lucarini, from first-hand experience, has special discernment in detailing the origin of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) and that it is a worldly means of attracting people to the gospel message. Take away the lyrics, the sound is like mainstream rock radio of today with their pagan origins.

I am not a musician but I have seen first-hand the infiltration and effects of Christian rock into the church. In too many churches, one can no longer find an opportunity for reflection, prayer, and a quiet worship with one's creator. The sound is so loud at times, I have left the sanctuary.

I have had friendly discussions with our youth pastor. He said the youth want to hear music they like and we need to do it to attract them back. Well, the elders buy into this, even though some of them come in late purposely because they don't like the music. Go figure ??

The other very destructive part of CCM generally is that we have raised a group of young evangelicals who are biblically illiterate. They sing the words but have no background on where in the bible those lyrics or thoughts can be found. Many are "7-11" songs ... seven words repeated 11 times over. People are attracted because of the music and many probably stay only because of the music. Are they truly growing as disciples in the Lord for which they are commanded? Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. (Romans 10:17) In too many churches, the only hearing done by youth is from the band.

The other thing Lucarini touches upon is to read the lyrics of many CCM songs. Many of them could have been written by George Harrison of the Beatles praising one of his Hindu Gods. Essentially many CCM songs are general worship music... just insert the God of your choice as you sing. Where is the exclusivity of Jesus? (John 14:6)

CCM doesn't want to deal too specifically with the blood of Christ, What His suffering on the cross cost the Father, His second coming, and final judgment for every person. The lyrics don't get too complicated.... people won't come back.

Lucarini should be commended for taking a terribly politically incorrect stance but one that is absolutely correct. CCM is paving the way for the ecumenical church of Revelation Chapter 3, one that is lukewarm that Jesus says He will spew out of His mouth. Thank you for your boldness, Mr. Lucarini.

Written from the perspective of "one who's been there," Dan's book openly and honestly explains the philosophy behind CCM worship and why it is a problem within the Church. While he tells of his own experiences as a contemporary worship leader, composer, and musician, he also contrasts biblical worship with today's contemporary worship.

"Why I Left the Contemporary Christian Music Movement" is easy to read and should be read by every Christian, whether or not he or she is involved in music. It will give the reader insights into today's music controversy within the Church.

Dan Lucarini lucidly describes the travesty Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) has wrought among the saints. As a pastor who only permits traditional worship formats in the church, I recommended the book from the pulpit to the entire congregation and assigned it as required reading for the board of deacons. The book continues to be refreshing two days after reading it and the Holy Spirit used the content to move me to pray for believers regarding issues I never have before. It is apparent that the author is sensitive to the Holy Spirit's ways with him, that he is a willing vessel to be used by God for His glory, and that God's Word is a priority in his life. The author's humility is evident and his confession of sin in the book will bring conviction by the Spirit on any believer who is positive to fulfilling God's plan for his life. The pupose of the local church is not to attract the world through seeker sensitive music, programs, and worship formats but to edify the saints through expositional Bible teaching & preaching. Then the saints are prepared to go out from the church into the world and evangelize the lost.

I have lived through everything mentioned in this book, and I have heard every hateful, presumptive, dishonest criticism leveled by some of these reviewers.

I was the music leader and deacon for an English-language church in Germany. I led a balanced song service, with a split of 60/40 or 40/60 hymn/contemporary songs almost every Sunday. I had only three rules for congregational songs:

1. It must have sound doctrine.
2. It must have a musical style that is generally recognized as beautiful.
3. It must be singable by the congregation.

That was far too strict a standard for the rebels. They attacked me because I wasn't 100% CCM; because I didn't immediately incorporate every song that went to #1 on the "christian" pop charts. They introduced division in a church that had been unified for years, and when we questioned some of the bad doctrine in their favorite songs, they accused us of being divisive. When we questioned the wisdom of kicking a church member off the drums and replacing him with a guy off a park bench who showed up for his "gig" wearing a t-shirt that says "I Love Death Metal and So Does Jesus," but leaving when it was time to hear God's Word, we were called hateful. When we asked the new pastor for help to combat the rebellion and the bad doctrine of these people, we were pushed out and replaced by the rebels. Dan Lucarini could have been a mouse in the corner, taking notes for his book, in that church. You find these people in 2 Tim 3:2-5. They are "lovers of self, arrogant, revilers, disobedient, ungrateful, unholy, unloving, irreconcilable, malicious gossips, without self-control, brutal, haters of good, treacherous, reckless, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, holding to a form of godliness, although they have denied its power." I tried for nearly two years to work with them, but they rebuffed every attempt. They have hurt so many people. And I am only 36 years old, with a great love for great lyrics and tunes, old and new--not one of the oldsters they hate so much.

Bottom line: there were other churches in town that catered to the personal preferences of the rebels. They didn't really have to come into our church and destroy all that it had been, remaking it in their own image. Nobody forced them to come. Our big mistake was that we didn't force them to leave when we recognized them as rebels in the mold of King Saul, and fools in the mold of King Rehoboam. Instead, we tried to work with them and reason with them from the Bible. No matter how much Bible we used, it was "just our opinion." And so we are the ones wandering in the wilderness. Funny thing--now that the rebels have become the leaders, they demand submission to the church leadership as a condition for church membership. They thing they were unwilling to do, they demand of everyone else. Is God honored by this? Not according to the Bible.

I enjoyed this book, but I disagree that the author's experience can/should be generalized into a dogmatic prohibition of CCM for all Christians in all circumstances. The author's story was interesting and touching. However, the book is filled with sweeping generalizations that may or may not apply to someone else. Here is my take on some of the general principles the book is espousing:

1) Churches that use CCM promote the concept that God accepts us as we are, which is erroneous and unBiblical.

This is a sweeping generalization that is not true of any of the churches that I am personally familiar with. The author cites several examples from his own experience, but a few personal experiences do not constitute a scientifically adequate sample from which to draw conclusions. The churches that I am familiar with teach that God draws as we are, but does indeed expect us to turn (repent) from our sin and grow in Christ.

2) "My devotion to CCM caused division in my marriage, confusion in my family, and interfered with my personal relationship with Jesus." Implicit in this quote is the conclusion that CCM CAUSES all sorts of sin and bad things to happen.

My devotion to food interferes with my personal relationship with Jesus. That doesn't mean that I must therefore stop eating. What it does mean is that I need to learn to place God higher than my food in importance and value. If someone is allowing an addiction to music of any kind to interfere in God's will in their life, then the underlying cause of the addiction (idolatry) needs to be addressed. Same goes for any activity that becomes idolatrous.

3) Churches that use CCM do not practice Biblical worship.

Again, this is a sweeping generalization. I am personally familiar with several churches that use CCM that do indeed understand and practice what true worship is. Worship is making yourself and all your "stuff" lower in value and worth than God. It is elevating God above all things.

4) The author accuses churches that use CCM of being selfish, self-absorbed, and hypocritical in their reasons for using CCM.

This may have been true of the churches that the author is familiar with, but there is no evidence that this is true across the board, nor does this prove that CCM was the cause of the selfishness. There are clearly other variables in play.

5) CCM should not be used because of its worldly associations.

The author rather mockingly suggests that we will need to wait 100 years before all the evil associations have been completely extinguished, using the example of lyrics that were set to contemporary tunes in the 19th century that are now treasured and revered hymns. Because of the prevalance of its use in the church, and the overwhelming acceptance of CCM, I would suggest that the evil associations have already been extinguished. CCM now has holy associations. Besides, if something is not INHERENTLY evil, then associations are irrelevant.

6) CCM is one of those stumbling-blocks we are to avoid felling our brother with.

I think we need to define what a stumbling-block is a little better. What about all those seekers who stumble over traditional church music? Whose "stumbling-block" should we be more concerned with?

7) CCM causes idolatry in teens.

If the teens in a church are more concerned with the CCM performer than they are with God, then their church has failed to teach them about the Sovereignty of God properly. They have failed to teach the purpose of worship properly, and have failed to instill the SH'MA in their youth. Individuals who have been properly encouraged to internalize this will not be experiencing irrational attractions to CCM stars. The fault lies with the quality of the religious instruction in the church, not the music.

The author summarizes the "benefits" of removing CCM from churches: 1) less divisiveness and church splits; 2) less temptation for immorality; 3) fewer tension between members; 4) less insensitivity towards each other; 5) less compromise. Friends, any church that habitually experiences these types of problems has got issues that are not going to be resolved by removing CCM. There are other variables in play, which might surface if one looked beyond the superficial panacea of getting rid of the CCM. CCM has become a scapegoat for SIN. We need to be looking deeper than this.

Additionally, I was puzzled by the author's use of Matt Redman's lyrics from "The Heart of Worship," to support his theories, calling it an "astounding confession." He seems to be implying that this particular song proves that all CCM musicians and participants are self-absorbed and idolatrous. To the contrary, this particular song is a case in point that at least one CCM worship leader experienced growth in recognizing his own idolatry of music, and was willing to confess it to the church at large, exhorting others to put the music in its proper place, somewhere under God. ???????????

The book offers no new convincing Scripture to support the author's views, probably because there is none.

All in all, it was an extremely subjective treatment of CCM, certainly not worth generalizing into a dogma of avoiding it at all costs.

When I was given Lucarini's book by a fellow church member, I was somewhat skeptical. However, when I finally read the book I found it insightful. I can't say I agree with everything Lucarini says, but he certainly gives you some things to think about. By and large I found the book useful and would recommend it to anyone with the courage to consider what CCM is doing to congregations today.

For those strong advocates of CCM who consider it to be the panacea for today's worship, I highly recommend reading the book Surprising Insights From the Unchurched by Dr. Thom S. Rainer, Dean of the Billy Graham School of Evangelism. Dr. Rainer conducted careful research interviewing several hundred formerly unchurched people from a wide demographic. He asked them an open ended question, "What factors led you to choose this church?" Only 11% indicated worship style and music was what led them to choose that church. I find that interesting considering the claims that CCM creates a more "seeker sensitive" church.

In light of Rainer's research, I believe Lucarini in his book asks some legitimate questions regarding CCM. I believe his point is well taken that many involved in CCM are doing it more for their own pleasure of that style of music as opposed to really being "seeker sensitive."

There's one more issue of significant interest. In reading Lucarini's book he doesn't utilize name calling tactics to deal with his opponents. Yet I find it pathetic that many of those who disagree with Lucarini and review his book on this very web site don't hesitate to resort to name calling. What does that tell you? I find that methodology questionable at best!

Dan Lucarini, a former rock musician and contemporary worship leader, "confesses all" in this frank, no-holds-barred exposé of Contemporary Christian Music (CCM). Although other "outside" Christian writers (e.g., Kimberly Smith, John MacArthur, and Dr. Jack Wheaton) have previously warned us about the dangers and pitfalls of CCM, from what better source could we receive such an authoritative, personal, and first-hand account of this controversial subject than an "insider" like Lucarini?

His basic premise maintains that using CCM in praise and worship is a man-centered phenomenon that should be exposed as such, because it is worldly, it lacks a strong biblical foundation, and it ignores God's explicit instructions for acceptable worship. Furthermore, it ironically produces attitudes which are often counterproductive to sincere worship, and it encourages carnal lifestyles. Detailing past experiences which he deeply regrets, Lucarini sends a clear warning to traditional churches: Switching to contemporary worship services will inevitably incite battles with the spirits of immorality, divisiveness, and deception.

Lucarini's definition of CCM includes such music styles as soft rock, pop/rock, easy listening, classic rock, and heavily syncopated music with rock influences such as jazz, rap, blues, hip-hop, punk, ska, or modern country & western. Far from condemning ALL CCM, however, he brands rock music, the most prevalent style of CCM today, as most inappropriate for worship, because of its incessant beat, its worldly performance styles, and its invariable association with sexual promiscuity, drug abuse, violence, and rebellion against authority. He biblically refutes, among other opposing arguments, that by adding Christian lyrics, we can separate secular rock music from its immoral associations and sanctify it.

Much of the book paints a vivid portrait of the philosophy and mindset of those who embrace CCM. Thus, God accepts any contemporary music style, so they reason, because God always accepts us as we are (implying that we can retain our worldly lifestyles and preferences after conversion). Such philosophy further implies that our tolerance for worldly affections and behaviors is far more important than exercising biblical discernment. These concepts especially pervade so-called "seeker-sensitive" churches, which justify CCM as an evangelistic tool. Lucarini cautions us, however, that, "We cannot drag our favorite worldly music, dress and language into the church, and expect a blessing." Pastors who insist on introducing CCM into traditional churches have already decided that some of their flock (dissenting "Traditionals") are worth losing. Ironically, they brand dissenters as "divisive" and order that they either be silent and accept the changes or find another church directly. To Lucarini, such pastors have developed an arrogant disregard for the conscience and discernment of others.

Because CCM lacks a firm biblical foundation, Lucarini takes the Word of God and easily dispatches the following typically deceptive arguments posed by CCM apologists: "CCM is a matter of personal preference;" "Music is amoral;" "All music is inherently good;" "The Bible mentions nothing about rock music;" "We can use all things to reach people;" "Praise music is different from worship music and should be more upbeat;" "Even Martin Luther and the Wesleys used `contemporary' music;" "CCM is easier to sing than traditional hymns;" and "God uses CCM to save and disciple teens."

It goes without saying that this book, though factual, will anger and offend CCM advocates. Yet I regard Lucarini's presentation as honest, sincere, and certainly without malicious intent. He simply urges churches to purge CCM from their services and return to music that is God-centered. As an organist who witnessed similar events transpire in my former church, I heartily recommend this book with a firm, "Amen!"

I found this to be an excellent book written in the right spirit. I personally led music in a "traditional" church for many years. I have also debated Contemporaries and found that his book enumerated to a "t" the arguments used by the Contemporaries as well as the heavy labeling they resort to to marginalize or neutralize a "traditional".
I would recommend this volume to those interested in the subject and in particular those who have found themselves in the crosshairs of the malevolent and distorted arguments of the Contemporaries. Buy the book!

I've already left a review of Lucarini's second tome (Can We Rock the Gospel?), so I believe it's necessary to comment on this first book.
First of all, many don't know that this book is in it's 18th printing (at the time I bought it last year)! Secondly, as I mentioned in the other review, how come you cannot find this (or the other book) in your local Christian bookstore? Namely, because of it's valid criticisms and the (possible) loss of revenue for CCM music sales! It's all about marketing, isn't it? We, as the catholic church (I'm referring to the Christian church worldwide, not the denomination headed by the Pope in Rome), are falling into apostasy and losing our focus on the message of His Holy Word.
I've written to the author and very much appreciated his response back to me. His stories, recollections, and input from additional worship leaders only validates my experiences. My only disagreement with him is the use of drums and electric guitar in worship + the use of TRAX in worship, too. My thoughts are: what does a smaller congregation (less then 100) do with limited musicians and resources? Not do a song simply because the only way to present it is by electronic means? If the message is validated by the Holy Word and the music (melody and harmony + rhythm) support and not overwhelm the text, then by all means use it! I've used TRAX on ocassions; it's not my preference, but sometimes its the only option. The same applies to guitar and drums: if the message is "drowned" out then how is the message gotten across? The same could apply to an organist, who plays "full-throttle" much to the detriment of hearing the congregation! As a worship leader, it's my responsibility to point that out to ALL musicians.
Dan's book is great, and we need to keep "balance" in terms of music's role in the worship service. As per my other review, the problem is not so much the music, but the attitude that comes along the "Rock 'n Roll" style. Well-trained and gifted musicians are being aside for what the "masses" are screaming for. Senior Pastors WORLDWIDE are falling prey to the "apple of desire" mainly more numbers + revenue for the church coffers. I believe Martin Luther spoke against this, as has others throughout Christianity's history. DO NOT write this book off! Dan is ready and available to dialogue with you (e-mail) and this book would work great with a Worship Ministry team at any church!

This book is by and large an extended tract of personal observation. While the author's testimony is powerful, more than an emotional appeal is needed in this area. Though his observations seem to be typical of the CCM movement, it is a shame that his personal experiences are not backed up with broader research and objective evidence. However, what the author is stating has great merit and is worth the effort expended in taking the time to meditate upon. CCM and its attendant worldliness is insidious and is destroying our churches, but this book fails to convince. If one is looking for a well developed theological foundation for worship as well as its guiding applications to today's styles of music, then this is not the place to go. On the other hand, the author is to be applauded for trying to do something to counteract the current slide into irreverent and worldly worship, and this is a great introduction to that debate. May he be encouraged to further develop this with his musical background, knowledge, and skills.