NEWSFLASH: christian is not an adjective

One of the new musical artists that I discovered last year was Derek Webb. I’d long listened to him as the lead male vocalist of a group I’ve liked for years –Caedmon’s Call—but had never followed him as a solo artist. Now he’s left the band permanently, as I understand it. So I tried listening to his new album Mockingbird which has stirred-up a lot of conversation because of it’s lyrics that prophetically challenge the church and Christian culture in North America. The point of the whole album is that we are not supposed to be singing our own life-song, but rather imitating Jesus’s life.

One of the songs that really made me stop and think was a song entitled A New Law. The song has stuck with me throughout the year, so I wanted to mention it to you. Whether you like the music or not, his point is worth considering. Do Christians tend to shirk the complex critical thinking demanded by freedom in Christ for something easier—a label, a slogan, someone else’s opinion? In doing so, aren’t we just trading in an old law for a new one, rather than living life with the Spirit?

A New Law
[Click here to listen to the song. Use the control bar at the top.]

don’t teach me about politics and government
just tell me who to vote for
don’t teach me about truth and beauty
just label my music

don’t teach me how to live like a free man
just give me a new law

(pre-chorus)
i don’t wanna know if the answers aren’t easy
so just bring it down from the mountain to me

(chorus)
i want a new law
i want a new law
gimme that new law

(vs. 2)
don’t teach me about moderation and liberty
i prefer a shot of grape juice
don’t teach me about loving my enemies
don’t teach me how to listen to the Spirit
just give me a new law

(pre-chorus/chorus)

(bridge)
what’s the use in trading a law you can never keep
for one you can that cannot get you anything
do not be afraid
do not be afraid
do not be afraid