I'm speaking about Christians who make art - particularly music and movies.
The one side says "There is no point of making art if there is no clear gospel message in it" - That presenting the gospel is the only purpose of art.
The other says "If you don't make excellent art that appeals to everyone, it's no good for anyone." - That art is just an expression of self, and therefore will have moral values if you happen to be Christian.
And here I am in the middle saying "We are on the same team, guys!!!"
Truth is we need both kinds of media. We need films with the clear gospel message AND the parables with a moral message. Jesus taught both, why wouldn't we? Interestingly, He never said it would be the gospel message or the excellent quality of our art that would show we are His disciples.
Jesus told His disciples "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” - John 13:35
"Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord." Romans 12:9-11
We are called to build one another up! (1 Thess. 5:11) To be one in Christ! (Rom. 12:5; Gal. 3:28) We are his body - why are we fighting ourselves? Aren't we here to serve the Lord the way HE calls us to serve Him?
"...there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. 7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." - 1 Corinthians 12:5-7
We have different purposes- and it's OKAY! God wants us to serve Him in different ways! And just because you personally may not be benefited by a particular service or ministry, does not mean some one else is not.
Example: I'm not crazy about the color green, but I love red! I have friends who love the color green. Do we argue about it? In jest, yes, but it's okay that we like different colors! The same applies to art styles. I like the sound of CMM. Others do not. So find another style to make music for the glory of God!
It's not that complicated. It's just harder to create new art than to complain about poor art. But we need to. ("We" includes me)
Let's stop tearing each other down about the method, please! This life is not about us, dear friends - it is about our Lord Jesus! Let's love and serve Him by making art to encourage one another.
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." - 1 Corinthians 10:31
