Over the last few weeks, many Christians, including myself, have been extremely hyped up about a group that is ON POINT! That group is Committed – an A cappella singing group that came out of Oakwood University. This group not only participated in “The Sing Off“, but rose all the way to the top, winning a $100,000 Grand prize, and a Sony recording Contract.
Can you believe it? I can. From the first time I heard them, I said to myself that they would win. Their harmonies were tight, and they vocally orchestrated their songs in a way that brought a new flavor to some of the hits that so many people hold dear to their hearts. I, and so many other Adventists out there, am very proud of their accomplishments.
However, this pride also comes with a significant amount of fear. Why? I’m glad you asked . . .
It’s quite simple. The music industry (especially in America) has, in many ways, grown to be a very corrupt industry that revolves around money, power, and everything else that elevates self. When you look at all of those “superstars” out there like P. Diddy, Snoop, Eminem, Jay Z, Beyonce, and so many others, it seems like being a successful musician (in the world) leaves little, if any, room for worshipping any God besides yourself.
Take the following album for example where Jay Z is referred to “Jayhovah, the God M.C.”.
The God M.C.
My level of concern was increased when I watched the episode when Committed did the Usher Remix. As usual, it was a stellar performance, including the song “Make Love in this Club”. Here’s the thing. I know that at this point, Committed no longer decided what songs they would be singing. The songs were chosen by the judges. I do understand that.
However, I think this is a preview of what COULD happen to Committed IF they don’t stay Committed.
After listening to that song here were some of the Comments that were made by the judges:
[box]Ben – “You guys take your music dead seriously, but you don’t take yourselves dead seriously and it’s so wonderful to see and it makes everyone relax . . . You’ve taken this journey from, I don’t know, Birth-Control music to that. . . ”
Shawn – “…and I seen some movements that uhh . . . I see y’all church boys. I see you”.
Nicole – “They are called committed for a reason. That was the Holy Spirit moving through them”
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You can see exactly what I’m talking about in the following Video:
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The “Holy Spirit” moving through them, causing them to sing and dance to “I wanna make love in the club”? Does anyone else see a problem with this? This is a blatant mockery of who God is and what I believe Committed is trying to accomplish.
Here’s the thing . . . I’m not judging what they are doing, and I’m excited for the opportunity that they have. Nor am I saying that this is definitely where Committed is heading. I pray that it isn’t. However when it gets to this level, it seems like you move where and HOW the money says you need to move.
With $100,000 in cash and a Sony recording Contract, it becomes increasingly harder to say “No, I can’t do that, because it compromises my Christian values”.
So committed . . . my message to you is simple . . . PLEASE BE CAREFUL! We see your success and are excited about the possibilities. However, the devil also sees your success, and I think he might be excited too. With the level of influence that you have, the devil will want to use your success for his own God. Be determined to use it to lift up Christ, not the devil.
You started as a group that was committed to show your creativity and LOVE FOR GOD. Try to keep it that way. I will be praying for you. Music is such a powerful thing and the devil knows that more than anyone else. He will be after you like nobody’s business.
Committed singing "Lets Stay Together"
What do YOU think?
So what do you think about the big win? Excited? Concerned? Afraid? Share your thoughts with me below. I’d LOVE to hear them 
Father. Husband. Anatomy Professor. Blogger. Changing the world one blog at a time! 
I’m so excited for Committed! I’m holding my breath waiting for that first gospel CD
Just stay connected to God and the devil might try…but he won’t be able to touch you! You’re on Satan’s radar now 
you are in a position to touch the world with the gospel message, praying for you guys! You’re gonna do great!
I hear ya Nicole. It’s an awesome opportunity and God can use it to do some awesome things. We need to keep them in prayer. Then again, we all need prayer
I agree with your comments. Success can lead to self-sufficiency or humility. Keep on praying
I agree with you 100% there Tedd. I guess it all depends on who the focus is? God, or I! Makes a huge difference!
Committed wont be doing any gospel CD’s while under Sony. This is something that was known before even entering.
I TOTALLY agree with you. I had this concern from the first performance. Like you, I am THRILLED about their opportunity. BUt staying grounded and true to your values is a tenuous road in the music industry and we definitely need to keep the young men in prayer.
Yep Robert. There’s a lot of potential to go either way. I just think about myself being in the same situation, and I know I would need an extra measure of prayer to deal with that level of success and temptation. But hey, maybe that’s just my weakness talking
I’m actually just watching the final episode. Man, I listen to those singers and think how Awesome it will be in heaven. If these are the kind of voices we hear on earth, I can’t imagine what it will be like in perfection
Points well taken, Leslie. I am proud of their recent accomplishment--they’ve got talent and heart! When they proved through the “Sing-Off” contest how good they were, it was a testament of how far they came through hard work and of course, commitment to show the world the talent God has blessed them with. I am happy for their success. Yet, I agree with you that with success comes realizing how that success came about and I know my successes in my life come from God and only He deserves the praise. In this day and age, we as Christians must be on guard in whatever we do, think, say and commit to because in the end (and I believe there will be) one must ask: “Whom do I serve--Jesus or Satan?” I’m preaching, but I do wish Committed the best of success as their music dreams are realized and pray that they will stay committed to the reason they started the group in the first place and especially to the One who helped make it happen.
Kimi,
I think you summed up the essence of my entire post in that one comment
YOU ROCK!
Thank you for posting this, Leslie. I watched last night & had many of the same thoughts, even posted them on a friend’s Fb page when everyone else was ecstatic over the win, then wondered if I should have kept quiet. It’s good to see a musician like you evaluate it this way, yet with grace & sensitivity. I feel that they should have refused to sing the song you quote, no matter the consequences. They have compromised, bringing disrepute on the name of God and the church, I believe. And to give the Holy Spirit credit for a win under those circumstances is almost blasphemous. God is not the only one in this world who gives victories, & the other one does it precisely for the reasons you have suggested.
I hear ya Madeline. It was interesting to watch their faces when those comments were made. I might be reading into things, as I tend to do every so often, but they look conflicted. The look on one of their faces said “I’m not sure I’m cool with what you are saying, but it wouldn’t be appropriate to say anything about it right now on TV”.
I do believe their hearts are in the right place, but it’s hard to turn success even when it has the potential to be compromising. This is definitely an interesting discussion.
I fully agree with your words…and also, there is something else that just catches my attention like in neon lights right now. In the first season of the “Sing Off”, the winners --> NOTA, were also SDA who studied in Adventist Academies in Puerto Rico. Some of them were part of a beautiful group named Alpha, and sang in our churches many times in the past… Despite all the success and all the open doors that may seem to appear now, I’m deeply saddened and worried by this. WE NEED TO PRAY SUPER HARD FOR OUR YOUTH! and for all the fans that might follow them (uphill or downhill)….Please Please, lets all humbly remember there is great RESPONSABILITY with the gifts and talents our LORD gives us. Be blessed!
Ezekiel 44:23 (King James Version)
“And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane, and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean.”
Wow, I didn’t know that Yanina. This is my first time following The Sing Off. Actually, I haven’t been really following it. I’ve just watched a few of the episodes. This is definitely a time for prayer for our youth. The priority these days is me, me, me, and the media doesn’t do much to help that.
Not trying to preach doom and gloom here, because we all know who will win -- God of course. We just all need to be committed to using our talents to Glorify the one who gave them to us. If your talent is music, use that music to lift Him up. If it’s comedy, use it to help people laugh their way to Jesus, lol. Hope that made sense
http://www.adventistreview.org/article.php?id=3079
Wow, two years in a row. That’s very interesting. I tell you, there are some talented folk in the church!
I totally agree with you, very nicely put. This was my concern as well especially when Nicole, after the Usher medley said “there are few groups that can take us from the church to the club…” I agree with the whole music industry being controlled by the Devil. Often times we dint understand the seriousness of this controversy. We can just pray for them, and hope that they stay truly committed.
That’s a strong statement. I wouldn’t go as far as saying that the “whole music industry” is “controlled by the Devil”. God is the creator of music and I believe that He has His people even in the music industry. But yes, I do agree that we need to pray for them! We need to pray for the church in general!
I do agree that there was a HUGE problem with that statement of taking us “from the church to the club”. That’s SERIOUS, and is an indication of where it CAN go without God. Serious stuff!
I too have been thinking about this whole thing. I’m glad you put something up about this. It seems to me that there is an understanding out there that you can do whatever is necessary to get a recording contract in order to “share the gospel” even if it requires you doing or saying some things that may not quite accurately represent the gospel. This is my problem with what Committed has done. I don’t know these guys personally but I feel like they have misrepresented the Christian life. It seems to me that it would have made a bigger statement if they had sung music that upheld Christian values or even just didn’t participate in the competition instead of allowing this compromise. It’s almost like Daniel and his friends deciding to go ahead and eat from the King’s table just so they could have the opportunity to gain a place in the King’s administration. Call me crazy, but I have a hard time envisioning any of those screaming women in the audience gaining an interest in Christ after hearing these guys, or even understanding that to be in Christ means to be pure. It bothers me that we can justify this stuff. Anything that Committed does after this is still colored by the way they have portrayed themselves on this show. How could they speak on moral issues to people after this after promoting lyrics like “put your hands on my body,” or “make love in the club?” It doesn’t match up and it makes the gospel look weak. If the gospel doesn’t change anything then what is the point? That’s my two cents.
You know what Rochelle? That was a great analogy. If Daniel ate the King’s food, I’m not sure we would be reading that story. By Committed taking them “from the church to the club”, that’s definitely not a Daniel Story.
Honestly, and this is probably a bold statement, but I think that it would be so awesome if Committed turned down the record deal and the money. Sounds crazy, but it would make such a BOLD statement for God.
Maybe I should give them a call
Leslie, I decided to follow this thread when I saw the link on Facebook, and I agree 100%. I see all these Adventists excited that Committed represented our church, but despite their amazing level of talent, I was honestly disappointed with them. Your statement is bold, yes, but I share your sentiments. This record deal with Sony will not glorify God in any way. In fact, Switchfoot left Sony because they felt that they were being compromised and because they were being pushed to change their sound. Is it bad that I want Committed to give it all up despite their success thus far? Maybe. But I honestly think that wordly glorification and small compromises do little to advance God’s work. Prayers must be lifted up, indeed!
You know Marjolynne, the more I think about it, the more I realize that you never know if something won’t end up Glorifying God. I’ve seen God do some amazing things with some pretty bad circumstances.
I mean, He has even seen it fit to use me. Now if that isn’t a miracle, I don’t know what is. Prayer is the key to Glorifying God, so lets pray for Committed. I really think that they have pure motives. Lets pray for God’s will to be done!
I agree with you, Leslie. I also know that the fact that they said they were “church boys” meant that their image on the show would be based on that label. It became a wide open door for the show and the judges to apply some good ‘ol TV sensationalism to their comments. Personally, I found a lot of Nicole S.’s comments about them to be blasphemous. I have a feeling she was just playing into the sensationalism (that she didn’t really mean to offend me or anyone else that was offended). This industry is so fake and it will take unfailing commitment for them to stay committed and Committed.
At first, when I read your comment, I thought you were talking about the Nicole that commented above, and then I realized that the Judge’s name was Nicole, lol.
You are right. I was especially offended when she said that it was “the Holy Spirit” moving in them to do what they were doing on that one usher song. You can’t equate that to the moving of the Holy Spirit. That’s just crazy. Not my God!!
Leslie, I am so proud of you! I wondered if anyone else felt the same as my sister and I (when you’re older, you see things differently). I’m glad to see that today’s young people are thinking, but most of all listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit. I believe that although Committed was probably the best group on the program, I also believe that it was probably the Adventist network’s voting that helped them to win. So now I hope that those same people who voted for them, will now be praying for them, cause they’re going to need it!
Whatcha talkin bout Wanda? You ain’t Old
Yep, we need to be on our knees (as usual), and yes, I’m sure that the Adventist Network was all in the voting. Shoot, I would’ve probably called in myself to vote for them. They were on point. But when I think about it now, I get concerned, as I already voiced in the post. Anyways, Prayer is powerful, so lets make it happen!
I, too, had the same excitement & fears as you. I,too, was upset w/ some of the judges comments, but I don’t think Committed expected such comments. It seemed though, that they went through pains to mention God as the provider of their talents. What I liked the most was that Committed, as “the Church Boys”, did represent as the most positive group w/ both talent, & especially, message. But as you said, Leslie, we MUST pray that they stay w/ God & that they resist the temptation to compromise. I’m so very excited for Committed but in the end it is their salvation that will really matter. Let’s keep our brothers in prayer!
You are right Taunya,
They did continually mention God as the provider of their talents, which is admirable. Also, there was a clear difference between them and the other performance, in my opinion. You could SEE that they were Church Boys trying to make it in the industry. That wasn’t something they could hide. There’s still room for this Committed story to be a tremendous witness, IF they let GOD, and GOD ALONE determine their path.
Man, this is turning out to be a great discussion. I’m loving it!
Haven’t seen any of the shows myself but had heard about Committed being Adventist and that sounded great. Then the next thing I heard was concern from a college student and a mom about the song they sang on the show. Leslie, thanks for speaking your convictions and starting this discussion. I appreciate the comments I’ve read. From a definitely not-so-young person, I am committing to pray for all those in our church, regardless of age. Just this morning I was reading about how little we rely on the Holy Spirit. We all need to be praying for the Holy Spirit for ourselves and each other. When many of us are doing that more and more of us will be able to stay true to our individual callings and the calling of our church. Praise God that He is anxious to fill us with His Holy Spirit power and wisdom.
Leslie, it would be SWEET if you called Committed!
Cindy, that’s really what it’s all about. We ALL need the Holy Spirit, whether we are singing on TV in front of the world, or whether we are home alone. I hadn’t heard about the concern with the mom, but I can understand the concern. You know what -- in some weird way, this whole situation makes me long for heaven. We won’t even need to have these debates. We’ll all be with Jesus, and that’s what matters
I must say that I was a bit disappointed when I read the comments. Not because they are not great points. But because we as Christians seem to be so quick to point faults in others and discourage them from doing great things.
Donnie sings a song that says we fall down but we get up. Saints are sinners who make mistakes but a mistake does not define our future. God is still able to make ALL things work together for good. And if these guys choose to keep God as the center of their lives, He ( God ) can even use the Usher performance to teach them a lesson that will even make them more committed to only glorifying God through their music, and give them a better ending than if they never sang the song.
God is able to do awesome things and instead of focusing on what can be done we are here wondering if they should drop out … turn down contracts … what is this?? Let’s build them up and pray for them to stay committed.
After all they are only human and if anyone here has never misrepresented God, then YOU should cast the first stone. You never know what God has planned and will do. Just look at Esther who became queen of a non-Christian nation and yet God used her. God can use them and will use them if they stay committed.
Let us not be so quick to discourage. I wish this comment list was filled with encouraging words to the group saying that they can still fulfill a great purpose for God and that God has a plan for them. Let’s point to God’s plan rather than past human failures. For none of us can tell what God will do.
Hi Vincent,
I do think there are some positive comments here. Most people that have commented seem to be in favor of Committed. Shoot, I think they ROCK, and that’s putting it very mildly. If they didn’t, I wouldn’t have gone on Youtube and Hulu and listened to all of their performances.
Not trying to be judgmental at all. In fact, if there’s anyone here that can be judged, it would be me. We all have our issues. Yes, some are more public than others, but they are all still issues.
What many of us here are trying to do is voice our concern. I’m concerned for those guys. Really I am. I looked at some of their faces during the comments, and at times they looked like little fish that could get swallowed up in a big pond. I know the struggles I would have if I were in their position, so I will be praying for them. As I said earlier, God can use them to do some AMAZING things if they stay committed!
I’m all for committed…They sound beautiful & I’m glad that they had this opportunity, but I also have some concerns….
I think it is a great opportunity to let the Holy Spirit work through their music, but at the same time, I think they compromised by singing some of those songs. Why couldnt they sing gospel or songs that glorify God? Is it because they may not have won because thats not what “the world” finds popular? Who knows! I just think that when their boss asks them to sing “I wanna make love all night” KNOWING that aint nan one of them married…what can they say? “No because I dont deviate from God’s music”? They opened more doors for compromise to enter.
Also, the comment the Nicole said “That was the Holy Spirit moving through them”..People laughed like it was a joke, and she said it as if it were a joke so how is that okay? Someone could’ve added a “Yeah right!”at the end and it would’ve fit perfectly with how she said that. The other comment that was crazy to me was “Not many people can take you from the church to the club, so great job guys”… O_o ??? I dont look at that as a compliment, especially for what the group is trying to accomplish… Throughout the season, it seemed like the group was going through a dechurching process…I dont think thats a word, but the judges ALWAYS made comments that encouraged moving away from the church, and again, I dont think that that was the group mission so if people are perceiving them to be people who are accepting the worldly music as part of what they are going to do…I really HOPE AND PRAY that Committed becomes aware of that and stops it in its tracks before they have to deal with a big vast grey areas and decide on things that aren’t inspired by the Holy Spirit.
Dechurched? That must be a new word Marquitta. We gotta add that in the dictionary. That actually gives me an idea for a cool section of my site. New words invented by readers, lol. That would be awesome!
You are right on. That’s exactly how I felt about it. That Nicole girl really got me with those comments. Anyways, I think it would be Awesome if we all committed to pray for committed. Maybe I should make a post about that and try to get a bunch of people on it!
GREAT IDEA!
(The addition to the dictionary, and praying for committed)!
I personally believe that committed compromised their Christian values and standard by entering that competition. Don’t get me wrong, I am proud of them and hope they don’t get pulled into the negatives of the music industry. I pray that they come out with a stronger relationship with God.
I definitely wouldn’t say that entering the competition was a compromise of Christian values Lawrence. There’s nothing wrong with entering a competition. It is easy to point a finger at them and say that they are terrible for entering. The fact is, regardless of who we are, we need to stay committed and pray for each other. We need to build each other up! Lets do that!
I support Committed.
I do think however that with the spotlight so firmly fixed on them we as Christians can start to look at them and think that THEY need to be the ones who need to stay committed and yet the truth of the matter is WE need to stay committed-spotlight or not. I can tell from first hand experience in the entertainment industry that the second I got into the industry all these church people started talking about how i was going to lose my way….it was the must unsupportive atmosphere ever….it actually made it more difficult for me to show up to church, because i felt like i was being judged…even though i was living my life according to God’s call…my prayer really is more for Christians (read-SDAs) out there to be more supportive of these young men, because if we reject them the world will definitely take them in with open arms!
Wow Matt,
Thanks for the comment. I think that gives a great perspective of what it can be like on their end.
When I started this post, I didn’t know that it would get such a strong response. It was really me just expressing a concern. I’m really considering starting a “lets pray for Committed” post. We should be there to support them, and the best way to support them is with our prayers! Now That’s what’s up!
I’ve read all 38 comments. WOW! All of us Christians and non-Christians, SDAs and non-SDAs, sat and watched this contest. And now we dare to criticize Committed for what they did or did not sing? We second-guess their decision to be contestants at all? Are any of us in a position to criticize anyone? Didn’t most of us recognize just about all of the pieces performed by the groups? Hmmm … where did we learn these songs? In church? I don’t think so! Don’t act as though Christians don’t know secular pieces and only sing hymns. Ever been to an SDA wedding? Lots of secular love songs are performed without concern or mention of “compromise.”
All of the ill-made remarks were made by the judges. None of them was remotely acknowledged by Coommitted. In fact, at times Committed appeared stunned and embarrassed by the comments. It was clearly stated that the music was chosen by the judges because they wanted music in various genres. And yes, even virgins want to make love all night long … they just chose not to until marriage!
I am praying for these young men, who continually reminded the audience that their talents came from the God of heaven. I am praying for those who will be promoting their musical future. God knows what’s going on. It is for Committed to follow His lead. He said He will cause us to ride upon the high places of the earth. Someone in an earlier post mentioned Esther. Hers was a continuous life of compromise. Not the best example, except that even in the wrong setting, God used her. He can use Committed to!
Leslie, in an early post, Lawrence said: “Committed wont be doing any gospel CD’s while under Sony. This is something that was known before even entering.” Does he know that to be true?
Just for the record, I promoted Committed heavily on Facebook, and even texted & called friends & family, encouraging them to vote, as well. I also have encouraged members of Committed personally on FB, and they were appreciative of my counsel. This is all new to them and we most continue to pray that they will, indeed, stay committed.
Interestingly, while I watched the show each week, my husband would leave the room. He didn’t want to have any part in it and was very disappointed that I would even watch. Now, mind you, I was probably one of the few who didn’t know many of the songs, because I was raised in a very conservative SDA home. But, as an Oakwood alum, I was prayerfully happy for them and the opportunity that this experience will give them. We’re good at “monday morning quarterbacking”, but until we are in the same situation, who knows what we might do. They were very uneasy with the judges comments, and it showed. I will continue to pray that they “Commit {their} way to the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.”
Lyn, I’m not sure how Lawrence came to that conclusion. That would be one for him to answer.
I definitely appreciate your comment. This post has prompted a serious debate it seems. I really hope people are getting the essence of what I was trying to say, and don’t take this as an opportunity to Bash Committed.
I think Committed ROCKS! Lets just pray for them, and for the music industry in general! While you’re at it, pray for me too. God knows that I need it
Young man, we are very thankful that you took the time to write this piece.
My thoughts are not so much just critical of Committed. Musically they are dope. Naturally my inclination is to be siced out of this world over their success. But we have to ask ourselves as Christians -- is all this about us or about the humble Carpenter from Galilee whose name we bare?
Don’t SDAs believe that in the grand scheme of things of things the “controversy” between good and evil ultimately centers upon the question of who God really is and what His character is like? If so excitement really wouldn’t stem from the fact that SDAs are shining in the spotlight but rather that God’s name is vindicated among millions of people who are so confused about His character. Unfortunately it looks like this venture only served to deepen those misconceptions rather than relieve them.
In the end I think these guys are sincere and want to do the right thing -- I’m not so much concerned for them per se, although we *should* pray. My primary concern is what this reveals about how the people of God perceive themselves and their mission. My concern is for the people who don’t have the opportunity Committed has to know God because they are misinformed about who God is, about His true nature of pure love.
Overall great conversation here.
Great insight Mr. Doe
You bring up a VERY important point. What matters is GOD, and our relationship with HIM. That should be the goal of our music.
Man, Music is such a powerful thing, and I can’t stop thinking about all the talent that was shown in The Sing off. When you look at all of the other shows like American Idol and all the other stuff, and then you look at this, you HAVE TO appreciate the talent.
What in the world will music be like in heaven? That’s the part that I can’t even wrap my mind around. I tell you this -- I can’t wait to experience it. Not just that, but I want as many people to experience it as possible!
MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC
Sorry, I’m getting a little excited.
Young man, we are very thankful that you took the time to write this piece.
My thoughts are not so much just critical of Committed. Musically they are dope. Naturally my inclination is to be siced out of this world over their success. But we have to ask ourselves as Christians -- is all this about us or about the humble Carpenter from Galilee whose name we bare?
Don’t SDAs believe that in the grand scheme of things of things the “controversy” between good and evil ultimately centers upon the question of who God really is and what His character is like? If so excitement really wouldn’t stem from the fact that SDAs are shining in the spotlight but rather that God’s name is vindicated among millions of people who are so confused about His character. Unfortunately it looks like this venture only served to deepen those misconceptions rather than relieve them.
In the end I think these guys are sincere and want to do the right thing -- I’m not so much concerned for them per se, although we *should* pray. My primary concern is what this reveals about how the people of God perceive themselves and their mission. My concern is for the people who don’t have the opportunity Committed has to know God because they are misinformed about who God is, about His true nature of pure love.
Overall great conversation here.
Great insight Mr. Doe
You bring up a VERY important point. What matters is GOD, and our relationship with HIM. That should be the goal of our music.
Man, Music is such a powerful thing, and I can’t stop thinking about all the talent that was shown in The Sing off. When you look at all of the other shows like American Idol and all the other stuff, and then you look at this, you HAVE TO appreciate the talent.
What in the world will music be like in heaven? That’s the part that I can’t even wrap my mind around. I tell you this -- I can’t wait to experience it. Not just that, but I want as many people to experience it as possible!
MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC
Sorry, I’m getting a little excited.
I’m from far across the Atlantic Ocean and I was there to support my fellow Oakwood University brothers in Christ but I too am concerned. I just hope and pray that they don’t compromise their Biblical beliefs. All that glisters is not gold. Yes, the music industry is very misleading and it’s going to take a lot of sacrifacing who they truly are. Remember you don’t want to gain this world and loss your soul. You know what I’m talking about. The Devil right now is putting out all the device to be on his side and he will try all he can. You all need to attach yourselves to spiritual Godly advisors. Keep a watchful eye out for the predators and stand up for what is right. It’s going to be hard but you all can do it.
I applaud their accomplishments but I pray they stick to whom they are -- MEN OF THE TRUE LIVING GOD. The judges, the producers, the writers are only out to make $$$$ and they are not concerned about your final heavenly distination. I pray you guys stay grounded in the LORD. You will be tested and your faith and characters will be tested too. Stay on your knees and stay in the word of God if that’s where you have been all this time. ???? Congraduations and I wish you all success (God’s success).
I’m from far across the Atlantic Ocean and I was there to support my fellow Oakwood University brothers in Christ but I too am concerned. I just hope and pray that they don’t compromise their Biblical beliefs. All that glisters is not gold. Yes, the music industry is very misleading and it’s going to take a lot of sacrifacing who they truly are. Remember you don’t want to gain this world and loss your soul. You know what I’m talking about. The Devil right now is putting out all the device to be on his side and he will try all he can. You all need to attach yourselves to spiritual Godly advisors. Keep a watchful eye out for the predators and stand up for what is right. It’s going to be hard but you all can do it.
I applaud their accomplishments but I pray they stick to whom they are -- MEN OF THE TRUE LIVING GOD. The judges, the producers, the writers are only out to make $$$$ and they are not concerned about your final heavenly distination. I pray you guys stay grounded in the LORD. You will be tested and your faith and characters will be tested too. Stay on your knees and stay in the word of God if that’s where you have been all this time. ???? Congraduations and I wish you all success (God’s success).
Leslie, I decided to follow this thread when I saw the link on Facebook, and I agree 100%. I see all these Adventists excited that Committed represented our church, but despite their amazing level of talent, I was honestly disappointed with them. Your statement is bold, yes, but I share your sentiments. This record deal with Sony will not glorify God in any way. In fact, Switchfoot left Sony because they felt that they were being compromised and because they were being pushed to change their sound. Is it bad that I want Committed to give it all up despite their success thus far? Maybe. But I honestly think that wordly glorification and small compromises do little to advance God’s work. Prayers must be lifted up, indeed!
You know Marjolynne, the more I think about it, the more I realize that you never know if something won’t end up Glorifying God. I’ve seen God do some amazing things with some pretty bad circumstances.
I mean, He has even seen it fit to use me. Now if that isn’t a miracle, I don’t know what is. Prayer is the key to Glorifying God, so lets pray for Committed. I really think that they have pure motives. Lets pray for God’s will to be done!
This is not how the gospel is suppose to go out. We’ve come to a generation where we are using all kind of gimmicks to win souls to Christ but to be like Jesus is the highest calling which means no compromise. the 3 Hebrew boys, Daniel and a host of other individuals in the bible won souls as a direct result of their obedience to God and not because of the gift God gave to them. Thy compromise the moment the entered the competition as the pure motive for pleasing God became corrupted with the motive to win. motive defines everything in the kingdom of God as God wants us to do things from a position of love.
I have to disagree greatly with this post. Yes Daniel and his friends were obedient, but thay also won friends, followers and souls (the King himself among others) by putting to use their God given talents and gifts in their daily situations. David used his gift of prophecy to instruct the King and other VIP’s of the time, tha’s why he ended in such a high position in the Babilonian government. On the other hand, if we are going to start talking about compromises, Committed should be the last place to start. Maybe we should start with many of the church practices and that of their institutions. A few examples: Now the SDA Church “observes” (not officially but it’s a fact) eastern week in a very similar way as the Catholic church (All the different passion plays and so on). I’m not saying that it is a bad practice per se, but we are doing it at the very same time the rest of the world is doing it, Why? Because it is an oportunity, the rest of the world has the attention to the topic at hand so, why not jump in the same wagon as all other churches and resemble them??
I believe that people here are being to fast to judge this kids without even knowing them or talking to them.
That issue of not knowing or even talking to them is a big thing. I can sit back here and judge all I want. No man knows the heart, but God surely does. Sometimes I feel as if if people could see what’s in our hearts sometimes . . .
This is not how the gospel is suppose to go out. We’ve come to a generation where we are using all kind of gimmicks to win souls to Christ but to be like Jesus is the highest calling which means no compromise. the 3 Hebrew boys, Daniel and a host of other individuals in the bible won souls as a direct result of their obedience to God and not because of the gift God gave to them. Thy compromise the moment the entered the competition as the pure motive for pleasing God became corrupted with the motive to win. motive defines everything in the kingdom of God as God wants us to do things from a position of love.
I have to disagree greatly with this post. Yes Daniel and his friends were obedient, but thay also won friends, followers and souls (the King himself among others) by putting to use their God given talents and gifts in their daily situations. David used his gift of prophecy to instruct the King and other VIP’s of the time, tha’s why he ended in such a high position in the Babilonian government. On the other hand, if we are going to start talking about compromises, Committed should be the last place to start. Maybe we should start with many of the church practices and that of their institutions. A few examples: Now the SDA Church “observes” (not officially but it’s a fact) eastern week in a very similar way as the Catholic church (All the different passion plays and so on). I’m not saying that it is a bad practice per se, but we are doing it at the very same time the rest of the world is doing it, Why? Because it is an oportunity, the rest of the world has the attention to the topic at hand so, why not jump in the same wagon as all other churches and resemble them??
I believe that people here are being to fast to judge this kids without even knowing them or talking to them.
That issue of not knowing or even talking to them is a big thing. I can sit back here and judge all I want. No man knows the heart, but God surely does. Sometimes I feel as if if people could see what’s in our hearts sometimes . . .
I totally agree
I totally agree
I hope no one takes this the wrong way but I feel like I’m gonna scream if I hear one more person use the word “judge” in reference to this situation. Since when did identifying a problem become judging??? SINCE WHEN??!!! To follow this logic that says “oh we all have faults,” or “none of us are perfect so we need to stop judging,” just serves to create an atmosphere where no one says anything. No can then talk about legitimate issues of concern. I do not know Committed. I don’t know them individually, I don’t know their reasons for going on the show, I don’t know their level of spirituality or how close each of them is to God. However, I do know something that is true for all of us, not just them. The moment you place yourself in the spotlight in the name of God, you are accountable for how you represent and portray Him to everyone who is watching. This is a serious responsibility that a lot of people do not recognize they have. And the truth is that we all have that responsibility in varying degrees. Now while this does not make them invincible and unable to compromise or make mistakes, it is a risk because since Committed is made up of fallible humans there is a chance that God’s name can be brought down by any mistake that they make. I just read an article where Committed states that the most compromising song they did was the Usher medley and that if they had to do it over again they would not have chosen that song. These guys are not unaware that they may have made a poor choice and they are trying to move forward in a positive way. I have always said that prayer is needed where these guys (who are our brothers) are concerned. Now in regards to the comment Leslie and Marjolynne made about them giving up the record contract, I agree that that would be a really bold statement and if the Lord is calling them to do that then they should. The funny thing is people have a problem with that concept because they feel they would be giving up some huge thing. Since when is giving up something the world offers a huge deal when God is worth more than a record deal and $100,000. We need to check our perspective. And furthermore the story is not done at all. God is still working with these guys and trying to use them to glorify His name. But I will not apologize for seeing wrong and calling it wrong. The problem we are facing with the new generation of youth growing up is they see all these things and accept them because no one is talking about what is right or wrong. It’s funny to me how we would not be having this conversation or talking about people being judged if someone in Committed had been found guilty of cheating on the show or something. Then we all would agree that wrong had been done. Anyway, wow that was a long post. Please people, it is not judging to point out something that is wrong. And there is nothing wrong with identifying wrong. The problem is when we then make the assumption that someone is not going to heaven based on what we see, or that they must not be a good Christian based on our knowledge. That’s when you begin to judge. Look it up in the dictionary guys!
Wow Rochelle, Tell us how you REALLY feel
Hey, I have no problem with calling something wrong if it’s wrong. Yes, they made mistakes, and they even acknowledged that. As you so eloquently put it, there’s a difference between telling it like it is and judging.
I really don’t have a problem with anything you said. My problem comes with the attitude that can follow some of the comments that I’ve read. Sometimes, we have the tendency to just point out the wrong, and neglect the love.
Perfect example -- the woman caught in adultery. Was she wrong? Yes, BUT the way it was pointed out was a problem.
No, we shouldn’t dilute the truth, but there’s a song that A cappella sings that to me summarizes HOW we need to teach the truth. It’s called “Teaching the truth in love”.
I think I clearly stated what I felt in this post. The songs they sang -- even they felt bad about it. It was definitely a compromise, but we shouldn’t write them off. We should support them in prayer.
And yes, I said JUDGING earlier in this comment. I hope it didn’t make you scream too loud
Leslie,
I agree with you 110%. LOL and no I did not scream when you used the word “judging.” You were responding to someone else’s post that I was having a hard time with. Anyway I am totally with you . I think what we have to do now is pray. It’s not going to get any easier for them. There are gonna be a lot of temptations and they need the strength of the prayer of the believers. That’s what I am planing on doing. Thanks for starting this thread though. It’s nice to know that I’m not the only one who thinks this way.
Blessings!!
I hope no one takes this the wrong way but I feel like I’m gonna scream if I hear one more person use the word “judge” in reference to this situation. Since when did identifying a problem become judging??? SINCE WHEN??!!! To follow this logic that says “oh we all have faults,” or “none of us are perfect so we need to stop judging,” just serves to create an atmosphere where no one says anything. No can then talk about legitimate issues of concern. I do not know Committed. I don’t know them individually, I don’t know their reasons for going on the show, I don’t know their level of spirituality or how close each of them is to God. However, I do know something that is true for all of us, not just them. The moment you place yourself in the spotlight in the name of God, you are accountable for how you represent and portray Him to everyone who is watching. This is a serious responsibility that a lot of people do not recognize they have. And the truth is that we all have that responsibility in varying degrees. Now while this does not make them invincible and unable to compromise or make mistakes, it is a risk because since Committed is made up of fallible humans there is a chance that God’s name can be brought down by any mistake that they make. I just read an article where Committed states that the most compromising song they did was the Usher medley and that if they had to do it over again they would not have chosen that song. These guys are not unaware that they may have made a poor choice and they are trying to move forward in a positive way. I have always said that prayer is needed where these guys (who are our brothers) are concerned. Now in regards to the comment Leslie and Marjolynne made about them giving up the record contract, I agree that that would be a really bold statement and if the Lord is calling them to do that then they should. The funny thing is people have a problem with that concept because they feel they would be giving up some huge thing. Since when is giving up something the world offers a huge deal when God is worth more than a record deal and $100,000. We need to check our perspective. And furthermore the story is not done at all. God is still working with these guys and trying to use them to glorify His name. But I will not apologize for seeing wrong and calling it wrong. The problem we are facing with the new generation of youth growing up is they see all these things and accept them because no one is talking about what is right or wrong. It’s funny to me how we would not be having this conversation or talking about people being judged if someone in Committed had been found guilty of cheating on the show or something. Then we all would agree that wrong had been done. Anyway, wow that was a long post. Please people, it is not judging to point out something that is wrong. And there is nothing wrong with identifying wrong. The problem is when we then make the assumption that someone is not going to heaven based on what we see, or that they must not be a good Christian based on our knowledge. That’s when you begin to judge. Look it up in the dictionary guys!
Wow Rochelle, Tell us how you REALLY feel
Hey, I have no problem with calling something wrong if it’s wrong. Yes, they made mistakes, and they even acknowledged that. As you so eloquently put it, there’s a difference between telling it like it is and judging.
I really don’t have a problem with anything you said. My problem comes with the attitude that can follow some of the comments that I’ve read. Sometimes, we have the tendency to just point out the wrong, and neglect the love.
Perfect example -- the woman caught in adultery. Was she wrong? Yes, BUT the way it was pointed out was a problem.
No, we shouldn’t dilute the truth, but there’s a song that A cappella sings that to me summarizes HOW we need to teach the truth. It’s called “Teaching the truth in love”.
I think I clearly stated what I felt in this post. The songs they sang -- even they felt bad about it. It was definitely a compromise, but we shouldn’t write them off. We should support them in prayer.
And yes, I said JUDGING earlier in this comment. I hope it didn’t make you scream too loud
Leslie,
I agree with you 110%. LOL and no I did not scream when you used the word “judging.” You were responding to someone else’s post that I was having a hard time with. Anyway I am totally with you . I think what we have to do now is pray. It’s not going to get any easier for them. There are gonna be a lot of temptations and they need the strength of the prayer of the believers. That’s what I am planing on doing. Thanks for starting this thread though. It’s nice to know that I’m not the only one who thinks this way.
Blessings!!
I do not watch TV, so was not aware of this happening. I heard about this show from my niece (sadly, who is atheist) who was watching the program and rooting for a friend of hers in another group. I went online to find out what this was all about. When I watched portions of a few of Committed’s songs on YouTube, I was heartbroken. I thought -- What was the look on Father God’s, Jesus’s, and the Holy Spirit’s faces when this group were performing some of these morally perverse songs for all the world to see -- and even worse, in the name of God? It made me think -- He who is faithful in the least of things, will be faithful when presented with greater challenges. How much compromise is so little that it is still safe? When Jesus Christ wants to position someone in the public eye so as to shine His Light for all the world to see, He does so without compromise to the enemy. Did God convict Daniel to compromise by active participation in Chaldean sorcery in order to be elevated in the eye of Nebuchadnezzar? No. The world does not need another misinformed interpretation of God’s character. May God wake us all from our vanity, pride, and slumber. What the world needs is to see Jesus in the face and lives of those who claim to know and love him. They do not need to see more of the world.
I agree with you. We need to represent God. However, I’m not sure that I know of anyone who has done that perfectly. Even if you look in the Bible at people who God chose to do some amazing things (like David), even they messed up royally in ways that messed stuff up, and in ways that have been documented for every generation to know. Not sure how much more public it can get than that.
I’m definitely NOT trying to justify what they did. I am saying that we should be careful not to right people off too quickly. If God did that to use, we’d be all in an even more messed up situation.
I do not watch TV, so was not aware of this happening. I heard about this show from my niece (sadly, who is atheist) who was watching the program and rooting for a friend of hers in another group. I went online to find out what this was all about. When I watched portions of a few of Committed’s songs on YouTube, I was heartbroken. I thought -- What was the look on Father God’s, Jesus’s, and the Holy Spirit’s faces when this group were performing some of these morally perverse songs for all the world to see -- and even worse, in the name of God? It made me think -- He who is faithful in the least of things, will be faithful when presented with greater challenges. How much compromise is so little that it is still safe? When Jesus Christ wants to position someone in the public eye so as to shine His Light for all the world to see, He does so without compromise to the enemy. Did God convict Daniel to compromise by active participation in Chaldean sorcery in order to be elevated in the eye of Nebuchadnezzar? No. The world does not need another misinformed interpretation of God’s character. May God wake us all from our vanity, pride, and slumber. What the world needs is to see Jesus in the face and lives of those who claim to know and love him. They do not need to see more of the world.
I agree with you. We need to represent God. However, I’m not sure that I know of anyone who has done that perfectly. Even if you look in the Bible at people who God chose to do some amazing things (like David), even they messed up royally in ways that messed stuff up, and in ways that have been documented for every generation to know. Not sure how much more public it can get than that.
I’m definitely NOT trying to justify what they did. I am saying that we should be careful not to right people off too quickly. If God did that to use, we’d be all in an even more messed up situation.