In a world where music holds the power to shape minds and hearts, the decision of which Christian artists to support is significant. Just as 1 Thessalonians 5:21 urges believers to "test everything; hold fast what is good," it is essential to carefully consider the intentions and impact of the Christian artists we choose to affirrm.

As we embark on this journey of discernment, let us reflect on the following seven critical questions:

1. Purposeful Platform Growth: Is the artist driven by a desire to expand their platform for personal gain, or do they focus on uplifting and supporting fellow followers of Christ? As 1 Corinthians 11:1 emphasizes, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Being a follower of Christ should be the primary and exclusive purpose for a Christian artist, contrasting with the selfish desire to seek followers on social media platforms. Additionally, Matthew 28:19-20 highlights Jesus' command to make disciples of all nations, emphasizing the importance of leading others to Christ rather than seeking personal fame.

2. To Gift or Receive: Do they prioritize sharing the priceless gift of Christ Jesus in their music and interactions, or do they seek superficial validation through likes, follows, and gifts? As John 3:16 highlights, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Artists should understand that Christ is the ultimate gift, and their music should reflect the depth and significance of this gift.

3. Living Out Biblical Virtues: Are they embodying the virtues outlined in Colossians 3:12 - compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience - in their actions and relationships? While reflecting on Philippians 2:3-4, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others," artists should strive not to fill arenas and inflate pride but to reflect the virtues of Christ.

4. Beyond Entertainment: Does their ministry aim to deepen relationships with Christ by inspiring spiritual growth and nurturing genuine faith in their listeners, or does it merely entertain? While considering 2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work," artists should recognize the importance and calling of equipping Christians by sharing the truth through Scripture, avoiding mere entertainment.

5. Seeking God's Approval: Do they reflect worldly values or biblical principles in their pursuit of following Christ? Is their focus on seeking the applause of man, or is their deepest desire to seek the approval of God in all they do? As Romans 12:2 advises, "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," artists should prioritize aligning their actions and aspirations with God's will.

6. Not Conforming to the World: Are they careful not to conform to the patterns of this world but instead strive to live a life that reflects Christ? Drawing from 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," Christian musicians should be mindful of the influences they allow into their lives and the messages they convey through their music.

7. Dying to Self: Do they demonstrate a willingness to die to their own desires and ambitions in order to serve Christ wholeheartedly? As Galatians 2:20 declares, "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me," true followers of Christ seek to understand the importance of placing their fleshly desires aside to follow Christ. Furthermore, Luke 9:23-24 emphasizes the necessity of denying oneself and taking up the cross daily to follow Jesus.

So, let us remember the wisdom found in Proverbs 4:23, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." With this in mind, let us approach our support for Christian musicians with discernment, choosing to uplift and affirm those whose actions and intentions align with glorifying God and serving His people selflessly. Let our choices in supporting Christian musicians be a reflection of our commitment to honoring God in all aspects of our lives.