In the New Testament, those who lead are held to a stricter standard for character (1 Timothy 3:2–12; Titus 1:5–9; James 3:1). Even though musicians aren’t necessarily “elders” or “teachers,” their presence in front of the congregation week after week implies that their life is worthy of emulation—not flawless, but demonstrating the fruit of the gospel. When that’s not true, the church gets the message that worship is more about music than the way we live. Likewise, when non-Christian musicians are used, we’re implying that the art of worship is more important than the heart.
