Music Misunderstood: Addressing Berdahl’s Claims About Contemporary Worship

I was recently introduced to Doug Berdahl’s seminar when he visited my parent’s church. They came back with rave revues, so I took a look. I was not nearly as impressed. Doug Berdahl’s criticisms of contemporary music styles, particularly rhythm and percussion, reflect a rigid, dualistic mindset that has no foundation in scripture or the writings of Ellen White. By misinterpreting doctrine and selectively targeting modern music, Berdahl creates a false divide between the sacred and the profane, while ignoring the larger truth: all of life, when lived in harmony with God, is sacred. Let’s dismantle his objections and uncover a more compelling, inclusive vision of worship.

The Demonization of Rhythm and Percussion

Berdahl claims that rhythm-heavy music and percussion instruments have roots in paganism, suggesting their use in worship invites demonic influence. This argument relies on the logical fallacy of association—assuming that because some cultures use percussion in non-Christian rituals, its use in worship must be inherently evil. This is not only inaccurate but dangerously dismissive of cultural diversity. Rhythm and percussion are found throughout scripture, from the tambourines of Miriam’s triumphant song (Exodus 15:20) to the cymbals used in temple worship (Psalm 150:5). To condemn these instruments is to erase their biblical legacy and exclude the vibrant, God-honoring expressions of countless cultures around the world.

Drawing Lines Where God Did Not

Neither the Bible nor Ellen White condemns any genre of music. Berdahl’s attempt to impose a “thus saith the Lord” where none exists reflects a theological overreach. Ellen White’s counsel on music emphasized the intent and effect of worship, not specific styles or instruments. She encouraged music that uplifts and edifies, rather than indulging vanity or chaos. Contemporary styles, when used thoughtfully, can achieve these goals just as effectively as traditional hymns. In fact, labeling modern music as profane undermines the principle of worshiping in spirit and truth (John 4:24), which transcends cultural and stylistic boundaries.

The False Sacred/Profane Divide

Berdahl’s worldview relies on a dualistic division between the sacred and the profane, suggesting that only certain styles of music are fit for worship. Yet, this artificial line ignores the broader theological truth: there is no sacred or profane in God’s creation—everything is sacred or nothing is. As poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote, “Earth’s crammed with heaven, and every common bush afire with God; but only he who sees takes off his shoes.” Music, like all creative expressions, has the potential to reveal God’s glory when aligned with truth and love.

Cultural Prejudice Masked as Doctrine

The dismissal of contemporary music styles often stems from an ethnocentric bias. Cultures that emphasize rhythm, such as those in Africa or Latin America, bring their unique expressions into worship, reflecting their lived experience of God. By condemning these styles, Berdahl perpetuates a narrow, Eurocentric view of worship that stifles the global church. The body of Christ thrives in diversity, as each culture offers its own lens through which to experience and glorify God. To exclude these perspectives is to rob the church of its richness and vitality.

The True Test of Worship

Ultimately, the question is not whether music conforms to a specific tradition but whether it brings us closer to God. Worship is about the heart’s posture, not the instruments used or the beats played. By living in harmony with scripture, nature, and experience, we can discern God’s presence in all things—even in contemporary music. To demonize one genre or style is to miss the fire of God blazing in every rhythm, every melody, and every heartfelt song of praise.

Berdahl’s objections are not rooted in divine truth but in personal preference and misunderstanding. The sacred cannot be confined to one style, one culture, or one tradition. Let us embrace a fuller vision of worship, where every common bush is afire with God, and every sound can sing His praise.