Parody Apologetics

In the following essays I will attempt to provide a defense for the ministry of bands like ApologetiX; hence you could say that these essays are an "ApologetiX apologetics." I won't limit myself to defending ApologetiX, of course, the arguments in these essays apply to all those who write (or would write) Christian lyrics to secular tunes and perform those new songs.

While objectivity is certainly a goal, I must first admit to several prejudices that will affect my objectivity. First, and foremost, I am a big fan of this genre. Bands like ApologetiX are currently my favorite Christian bands. Obviously, I like this genre or I wouldn't have spent the time and space on it here on Webster. Second, I discovered bands like ApologetiX and Mark Bradford while doing research when writing my own Christian rock parodies (see Parodeities for more details on those). Clearly I'm prejudiced by the work I've done and it's somewhat difficult to criticize someone else's work when you're doing the same sort of stuff without appearing overly arrogant and self-serving. Finally, someone at my age (all I will say is that I was born in the second half of the last century; barely) has, shall we say, less than contemporary views of what is good music; and my tastes are probably a bit strange even for my generation.

Also, I must admit upfront that I didn't swear off secular music when I became a Christian (actually, I was eight when I accepted the Lord and listening to secular music came later). Although I certainly realize that the message some secular bands are presenting is definitely bad and I am offended by some of this, I don't personally believe that a Christian has to sequester themselves into a little virtual world where the only music that exists is Christian related music. It amazes me that someone will argue that a Christian should only listen to Christian music and then take their kids to see an obviously secular "family movie" like the usual Disney fare. If "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" is okay, what's wrong with "He ain't Heavy, He's My Brother?" I apologize if this offends you, but I fail to see the distinction.

Finally, I should point out that this set of essays originally started out as a defense of ApologetiX rather than the genre at large. After reviewing several other Christian parody bands on Webster I decided to move these essays out of the ApologetiX section and make them more general. My apologies if some overt references to ApologetiX (as opposed to the genre) still lives on in these essays. I'm refining them and cleaning them up as I get the time.

Well, with the caveats aside, allow me to get down to business here.

Is Rock Music Bad?

What's a Christian Parody Band? (ApologetiX)

Are Christian Parodies Legal?

Are Christian Parodies Ethical?