August has been Youth Month at our church and yesterday, was the last day of our youth "revival". The youth choir sang some original music and one of the songs included a "rap" in the middle of the song. Some of the older church members were noticably uncomfortable by their youthful "spirit". The kids were "bouncing" and rockin' to the music...the whole nine. I, personally, enjoyed it and am happy that our youth are finding a way to express their spirituality. Our youth also want a Step Team. Our pastor is against it. However, it got me thinking.
Then, I was watching BET and all the gospel videos, etc. I'm not sure about how I feel about all of this "bling-bling for Jesus".
I was raised in a very "bougie" black baptist church. I was taught at a young age that clapping was NOT allowed or appropriate in church. I will never forget the time that a visitor came to our church and was clapping to the music, standing, and praising. One of the older church members called over and usher and ordered the usher to tell this visitor to STOP.

So, when I became an adult and my husband and I selected the church that we attend, I was very hesitant, at first to PRAISE and WORSHIP. I finally understand that it is OK to clap your hands, stand up and PRAISE THE LORD.
But back to this gospel music thing....has it gone too far? What is too far in your eyes? There are a whole bunch of gospel rap artists out these days. Does all of the "rapping" and "beats" take away from the true message at hand?