A Prophetic Cry in Christian Music: Are We Worshiping Jesus or the World?

Hey friends,

In our latest episode of The Christian Podcast, we dove into a heartfelt discussion sparked by a worship leader’s emotional critique of the GMA Dove Awards and a Christian artist’s bold decision to step away from the event. This conversation hit close to home for worship leaders, church musicians, and anyone passionate about music that glorifies Jesus. Join us as we unpack their words, reflect on what authentic worship looks like, and invite you to share your thoughts. Let’s get into it!

A Worship Leader’s Heartfelt Critique

A prominent worship leader and songwriter, whose music has shaped worship in churches worldwide, shared a tearful message about the GMA Dove Awards. Jeremy Riddle, known for songs like “This Is Amazing Grace” and “Sweetly Broken” (sung in countless congregations), has been a key figure in contemporary worship for over a decade. Formerly the Worship Community Pastor at Bethel Church (2011–2019), he now leads worship independently and released Live in the Prayer Room (2022), a project focused on intimate, Spirit-led worship. His voice carries weight in the worship community, making his critique resonate deeply.

“The system that the Dove Awards use to give awards is not Christian,” he said, explaining that it mimics the world’s focus on sales and streams rather than Jesus’ values. He admitted, “I’ve been part of the problem,” reflecting on his own journey in the Christian music industry. His words struck a chord, challenging us to rethink what success in worship looks like.

He asked: What if awards honored those Jesus would celebrate? “The first to receive an award would be the martyrs,” he said, pointing to those who serve the poor, the persecuted, or give their lives for the gospel. Referencing Hebrews 11, he highlighted the “Hall of Faith,” where figures like Abraham and Moses were celebrated not for fame but for their faith, even when “the world was not worthy of them” (Hebrews 11:38). Could a truly Christ-centered award show look different?

A Christian Artist’s Bold Stand

Adding to the conversation, a Christian artist who won big at the 2025 Dove Awards chose not to attend. Forrest Frank, a 30-year-old singer-songwriter who rose to prominence with his 2024 hit “Your Way’s Better” (topping Billboard’s Hot Christian Songs chart) and earned a Grammy nomination for his album Child of God, explained in a video, “It’s contrary to God’s character.” Opting out of the spotlight to focus on what matters most—faith over fame—his decision has sparked conversations about the “business” of Christian music and the call to worship in “spirit and truth.”

Wrestling with the Industry

The episode also touched on recent challenges in Christian music, including allegations against Michael Tait, a prominent figure from bands like DC Talk and Newsboys. These events have led to their music being pulled from major Christian radio stations, stirring pain and questions among fans. As Beto shared, songs like “Jesus Freak” had a huge impact on his faith, making these revelations tough to process. Yet, they fuel the bigger question: How do we ensure our worship—whether on stage or in the pews—stays true to Jesus?

A Call to Reflect: Healing the Industry

Mili and Beto see hope in this moment, viewing these voices as a prophetic call to heal the Christian music industry. “This is the solution,” Beto said, pointing to the worship leader’s vision of honoring those who reflect Jesus’ heart—like martyrs, servants of the poor, or the persecuted—rather than chasing worldly metrics like streams or sales. “God is doing a move of holiness,” he added, emphasizing that figures like Riddle and Frank are leading a shift toward authentic worship. Their actions challenge the industry to stop mimicking the world’s systems, like those of the Grammys, and instead embody the “salt and light” Jesus calls us to be (Matthew 5:13-16). Mili tied this to their own mission: “Our podcast isn’t about getting rich—it’s about leading people to Jesus and being salt and light.” They believe God is stirring a renewal, not just in music but in how we live out our faith, reforming the industry by returning to worship that inspires and transforms. For worship leaders, this means choosing songs and leading services that prioritize God’s glory over popularity, creating spaces where hearts encounter Jesus.So, we’re turning it over to you—worship leaders, musicians, and believers:

• What does Christ-centered worship look like in your church?

• How can we honor those who serve Jesus faithfully, like the heroes of Hebrews 11?

• What’s God saying to you about music and ministry today?

Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep this conversation going. Subscribe to The Christian Podcast on YouTube, visit us at christianpodcast.com, and give us a like if this resonates with your heart. This week, dive into Hebrews 11 and ask God to show you His vision for worship. Thanks for joining us—let’s be the church Jesus is calling us to be!

With love,

Beto & Mili