Doechii’s song “Anxiety” went viral early this summer, with thousands joining a dance trend synced to the lyric, “Somebody’s watching me, it’s my anxiety.” But the catchy hook drew sharp backlash from Christian influencers. Some labeled the song “demonic,” linking it to sleep paralysis and spiritual oppression. Their concerns mirror past fears over secular music but stem now from influencers, not pulpit preachers. Some even posted musical rebuttals, warning that anxiety stems from spiritual attack rather than emotion. Supporters of the song argue it’s a raw, honest portrayal of mental health and criticize Christian reactions as fear-based and stigmatizing.
Worship as Warfare Gains Momentum
This backlash aligns with a growing movement in charismatic Christian circles that sees worship music as spiritual warfare. Bethel Church and artists like Brandon Lake and Rita Springer teach that praise has the power to invade and transform culture. Lyrics like “My praise is my weapon” from Elevation Worship amplify this belief. Supporters argue this theology gives worship new depth and urgency. Others say it helps believers feel empowered during hard times. The idea is that collective worship can break spiritual strongholds and release healing, reinforcing the sense of music as both mission and battle cry.
Concerns About Music’s Spiritual Influence
Critics worry that framing worship as warfare increases fear of secular music. Influencers claim artists like Taylor Swift operate “in darkness,” and some believe demons help create hit songs. Podcasts and posts allege that concerts function as rituals and that musical frequencies can spiritually harm listeners. These warnings echo past moral panics but now reach broader audiences through social media. Christian rapper Hulvey and author Jackie Hill Perry have both suggested that secular music carries disturbing spiritual energy. While some Christians embrace these warnings, others call them extreme and caution against demonizing mainstream art and artists.
Alternative Visions Within Charismatic Circles
Not all charismatic Christians agree. Vineyard churches, for instance, focus on intimacy with God rather than spiritual combat. Leaders like Adam Russell argue that worship is about discovering God’s presence, not enforcing it. They caution against attributing magical powers to music itself, warning that this crosses into superstition. Vineyard worship tends to emphasize personal connection and emotional vulnerability, which contrasts with the “victory” or “battle” language heard in Bethel songs. Critics of the militant language say it risks politicizing worship and can shift focus away from God toward a culture war mentality.
Fear, Formation, and Faith
The debate reflects deeper questions about how media shapes faith. Scholars acknowledge music’s power to form spiritual identity but warn against “magical thinking.” The idea that music alone can unlock demonic influence risks shifting focus from simple, faithful discipleship to hidden fears. As worship music grows in influence, the divide over its purpose deepens. The tension between art, emotion, theology, and fear continues to shape conversations in churches, social media, and beyond. Whether music heals, harms, or both, many Christians remain eager to understand its spiritual consequences—and how to navigate them in a media-saturated world.
Source:
When Praise Is Power, Secular Songs Are the Enemy
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