Month: July 2011

Contemporary Christian music does not have the reputation of being controversial. In fact, when Christian artists typically try to say something controversial, they tend to do it in a way that ironically makes their hearers feel encouraged or empowered. The themes are too often “positive and encouraging.” This is why I thank God for Derek Webb. He is honest, frank, and, like a good rock’n’roller should be, shocking. But, all the while, he is faithful to the message of the Scriptures. Like the prophet Amos attacking the idolatrous comfort of ancient Israel, Webb’s music is an assault on complacent,...