Bible Verses

The Best 50+ Bible Verses About Secular Music

Updated:
March 6, 2025
|
Author:
Joseph Cox

Music is a big part of our lives, and it comes in many forms. But what does the Bible say about secular music?

This article brings together 50 Bible verses that touch on the topic. Whether you're curious or seeking guidance, these verses offer insight.

50 Bible Verses About Secular Music

10 Bible Verses on Secular Music and Morality

1 Corinthians 10:31
  • "Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." — 1 Corinthians 10:31
  • "Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things." — Philippians 4:8
  • "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." — Colossians 3:16
  • "Speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." — Ephesians 5:19
  • "Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life." — Proverbs 4:23
  • "I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me." — Psalm 101:3
  • "Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil." — 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22
  • "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." — Romans 12:2
  • "Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God." — James 4:4
  • "Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God." — Galatians 5:19-21

10 Bible Verses on Impact of Secular Music

Proverbs 13:20
  • "He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed." — Proverbs 13:20
  • "Do not be deceived: 'Evil company corrupts good habits.'" — 1 Corinthians 15:33
  • "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night." — Psalm 1:1-2
  • "You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?" — Matthew 7:16
  • "Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers." — Ephesians 4:29
  • "Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ." — Colossians 2:8
  • "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." — 1 John 2:15-17
  • "Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother's way." — Romans 14:13
  • "Make no friendship with an angry man, and with a furious man do not go, lest you learn his ways and set a snare for your soul." — Proverbs 22:24-25
  • "Flee also youthful lusts; but pursue righteousness, faith, love, peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." — 2 Timothy 2:22

10 Bible Verses on Secular Music and Worship

John 4:24
  • "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." — John 4:24
  • "Oh come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms." — Psalm 95:1-2
  • "Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." — Hebrews 13:15
  • "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!" — Psalm 150:6
  • "And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him." — Colossians 3:17
  • "And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." — Ephesians 5:18-20
  • "Sing to the Lord, for He has done excellent things; this is known in all the earth." — Isaiah 12:5
  • "Make a joyful shout to the Lord, all you lands! Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing." — Psalm 100:1-2
  • "Sing to the Lord, all the earth; proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day. Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples." — 1 Chronicles 16:23-24
  • "And they sang a new song, saying: 'You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.'" — Revelation 5:9-10

10 Bible Verses on Secular Music in Culture

Matthew 5:13-16
  • "You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt loses its flavor, how shall it be seasoned? It is then good for nothing but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." — Matthew 5:13-16
  • "For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse." — Romans 1:20
  • "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." — 1 Peter 2:9
  • "For in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, 'For we are also His offspring.'" — Acts 17:28
  • "To the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." — 1 Corinthians 9:22
  • "That you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world." — Philippians 2:15
  • "Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time." — Colossians 4:5
  • "That you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing." — 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
  • "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." — Matthew 28:19-20
  • "And He said to them, 'Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.'" — Mark 16:15

10 Bible Verses on Discernment in Secular Music

Proverbs 2:2-5
  • "So that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding; Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God." — Proverbs 2:2-5
  • "But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." — Hebrews 5:14
  • "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world." — 1 John 4:1
  • "And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ." — Philippians 1:9-10
  • "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." — Ephesians 6:10-11
  • "Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ." — 2 Corinthians 10:5
  • "Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe Your commandments." — Psalm 119:66
  • "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him." — James 1:5
  • "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." — Romans 12:1-2
  • "Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies. Test all things; hold fast what is good." — 1 Thessalonians 5:19-20

What Does the Bible Say About Secular Music

Secular music is a topic that often sparks debate among Christians. The Bible offers various insights that can help guide our understanding and choices. While it doesn't explicitly mention "secular music," it provides principles that can be applied to our musical preferences. Let's explore some key themes from the Bible verses mentioned above.

One major theme is morality. Verses like 1 Corinthians 10:31 and Philippians 4:8 remind us to focus on what is pure, noble, and praiseworthy. These verses encourage us to choose music that aligns with these values, helping us to live in a way that honors God.

Another important theme is the impact of secular music. Proverbs 13:20 and 1 Corinthians 15:33 warn us about the influence of our surroundings. Music can shape our thoughts and behaviors, so it's crucial to be mindful of what we listen to. Choosing music that uplifts and inspires can lead to positive changes in our lives.

Worship is also a significant theme. John 4:24 and Psalm 95:1-2 emphasize the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth. While secular music may not be inherently wrong, it's essential to prioritize songs that bring us closer to God and enhance our worship experience.

Lastly, discernment is key. Proverbs 2:2-5 and Hebrews 5:14 highlight the need for wisdom and understanding. By seeking God's guidance, we can make informed choices about the music we consume. This discernment helps us stay true to our faith while navigating the diverse world of music.

How to Apply These Bible Verses About Secular Music

Applying Bible teachings about secular music to daily life is crucial for living a faith-driven life. These principles can guide our choices and help us stay aligned with our values.

  • Choose music that uplifts: Opt for songs that inspire and bring positivity. This can help you maintain a joyful and peaceful mindset.
  • Be mindful of lyrics: Pay attention to the words in the music you listen to. Avoid songs that promote negative behaviors or thoughts.
  • Pray for guidance: Ask God to help you make wise choices about the music you consume. A simple prayer can make a big difference.
  • Engage with your community: Share your favorite uplifting songs with friends and family. This can create a supportive environment.
  • Set boundaries: Limit your exposure to music that doesn't align with your values. This can be as simple as changing the radio station or skipping certain songs.

Remember, God is always with you, guiding your choices and helping you grow. Your faith can transform your life, one song at a time.

Explore more prayers and Bible verses on PrayersFor or try our Bible Verse Generator to deepen your understanding and faith.

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