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American Idol and Shout to the Lord
Last night I only saw a little of the American Idol special "Idol Gives Back" that raises money for a number of worthy causes around the world. I think it's great that the show uses its huge platform to help people in need. Their work in Africa and in many parts of the U.S. is very inspiring.
I found out this morning that they closed the show with the eight remaining contestants singing the song "Shout to the Lord." Is that surreal or what? The interesting thing is that they changed the lyrics from "My Jesus, my Savior" to "My Shepherd, my Savior." The funny thing is that a few weeks ago when they were doing Dolly Parton songs I think several singers did songs that used the name of Jesus in them. But then when they do a worship song they leave Jesus out. Hmmm...
I'm not the kind of person that gets worked up about things like this. I'm just curious. I'd love to know what the decision-making process for the producers looks like. Are there Christians involved who are trying to get songs like this on the show? Or to take a more cynical view, do they just realize that a huge portion of their base (and a lot of the people who will be quick to contribute) are evangelical Christians so they throw us a bone once in awhile? But then if that's the case, who made the decision to cut "Jesus" out of the lyrics? Are there factions at Idol who don't like bringing in Christian themes so they had to make this compromise? Ahhh, the intrigue of it all.
One more question: are they even allowed to change lyrics like that? Could Darlene Zschech who wrote the song sue them for gazillions? Or at least demand that they do a whole show where the contestants have to sing only Hillsong tunes?
[Update: please make sure to read my "Closing Thoughts" on the American Idol/Shout to the Lord saga.]
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Comments (79)
I caught the ending too. They secularized the song in order to appeal to our post-modern culture. That way everyone could sing to their own Lord, whoever or whatever that may be.
Posted by Mr. MacIan | April 10, 2008 1:33 PM
"But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice."
Philippians 1:17-19
Posted by Kevin | April 10, 2008 3:19 PM
I think it is better that they sang it with amended lyrics rather than not singing it at all. One step in the right direction.
Posted by Carter | April 10, 2008 4:12 PM
That's the question I had Josh... Are they even able to change the lyrics of a song like that without proper permission? Also, I can't really say that Christ is preached because they took His name out of the song. Now anyone can just plug the name of their god in there and worship their god. If it was a secular song people would be having a fit over it, but since its a Christian song, they can do whatever they want...
Posted by Roger | April 10, 2008 5:36 PM
This is an issue that has intrigued me for some time. Paul also became annoyed by a spirit in a slave girl who "proclaimed Christ". She was not proclaiming Christ but blaspheming. This instance is what sent Paul and Silas to prison in Philippi. Acts 16:16-18 reads:
"As we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl who had a spirit of divination and brought her owners much gain by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and us, crying out, 'These men are servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to you the way of salvation.' And this she kept doing for many days. Paul, having become greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, 'I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.' And it came out that very hour."
It personally irritates me to see kids up there singing about a magnificent God and talking about worshiping Him forever when all they are really concerned about is the fame and potential wealth. I must stop myself short though and say that sometimes we get stuck in a legalistic rut and are only concerned about appearing righteous when really our motive is not that far from these. We too are sinners. My remaining question is whether it is still right or not? I know that God receives the glory through all situations and can we blame them if they truly do not know Christ personally? They are still dead in their sins and cannot come to Him without His drawing.
Posted by jblaha | April 10, 2008 6:23 PM
I was a little disappointed they changed it to "My Shepherd" but not very surprised. I was just excited and thankful to hear a song about the LORD being aired on public tv!
But guess what? Tonight's episode, the elimination one, they sang it again with the words "My Jesus".... awesome! I seriously did a double-take. Shocked.
Posted by Calissa | April 10, 2008 8:19 PM
What in the world? Tonight, Thursday night they started with My Jesus. I really am so curious about the why behind this song being sung on American Idol. I teach high schoolers and today when I was asking them about what they thought of the shocker ending, they were just like so what? I started to think I was the only person totally puzzled by this!
Posted by Julie | April 10, 2008 8:19 PM
I too am amazed and quite puzzled by it all. Yes, I am watching the elimination round right now and they did sing "My Jesus" tonight. Do you think that after last night they realized that they could be sued so they sang it again tonight to cover themselves. I am still in shock by the whole thing, but I know that God can be glorified even in bad circumstances. We serve an AWESOME God and this will be used to his glory!
Posted by Jana | April 10, 2008 8:28 PM
Let's not judge. "For with what judgement you judge, you will be judged; and w/ what measure you use, it will be measured back to you." (Matt 7:2) You can not possibly know the hearts of those men/women up there. Man looks at outward appearance. GOD looks on the heart. Praise GOD for the boldness for those who are Christians for their willingness to give Christ the glory!!!!!! Who knows what boldness that may have instilled in them for speaking openly about Christ during their future careers!!!!
Posted by Amy | April 10, 2008 9:21 PM
Wasn't it wild that they did the song again and they used the correct lyrics? How much do you want to bet that the lawyer for the song's author got on the phone last night and said, "You need to fix this!" I mean is there any other reason that they would repeat the song? Either way, it's great that they did it again.
Posted by Joshua Harris | April 10, 2008 9:37 PM
I think the involvement of lawyers for Hillsong was unlikely. Lyrics and melodies are changed in songs and are not a cause for action. And proving harm to the copyright holder in this particular instance would be really difficult. Furthermore, a reasonable defense for the producers of American Idol would be that Jesus Himself said that He is the Good Shepherd.
A more likely scenario is this. Recall in tonight's show, that Ryan Seacrest was encouraging viewers to download performances at iTunes because procedes benefited American Idol Gives Back. He was doing so just before tonight' performance of Shout to the Lord, and he said something to the effect that you could download the video of "Shout to the Lord"...and he throws to the "Idols" performing the song again tonight.
This was a great strategy for the producers of AI that will be a "win" for all involved. Viewers will be able to download the song and, given the use of the correct lyrics there will probably be MANY downloads; AIGB will realize more contributions to their relief efforts, AND Jesus' name was proclaimed!
Posted by Chuck | April 10, 2008 10:10 PM
Tonight, on the elimination show, they opened with an unedited version of Shout to the Lord, including the "my Jesus" lyrics.
Posted by Will | April 10, 2008 10:28 PM
I thought it was interesting that only Brooke, David, and Kristy sang that part.
Posted by Joe | April 10, 2008 11:22 PM
I thought the exact same thing! Do you think the producers took a poll among the performers and asked who would be willing to actually sing the name of Jesus and those three stepped up? I would love to hear the story behind the selection of this song for AI.
Posted by Leigh | April 10, 2008 11:49 PM
I thought the exact same thing! Do you think the producers took a poll among the performers and asked who would be willing to actually sing the name of Jesus and those three stepped up? I would love to hear the story behind the selection of this song for AI.
Posted by Leigh | April 10, 2008 11:49 PM
Regardless of whether lawyers were involved, I would venture to guess that Idol was covering their tracks tonight.
I too, found the whole thing surreal. I missed last night's show but found myself strangely stunned when Ryan announced the song.
Truthfully, I didn't find it to be a very engaging performance and I am not so sure that it is right or helpful to expect people who may not be born again to sing about Jesus being their savior.
Posted by Jenn | April 10, 2008 11:51 PM
I'm having a bit of a problem with all the negative comments about the singing of one of the most beautiful worship songs I know on a show like AI. It was amazing and anointed (cuz HE showed up) both ways! I'm a true believer; no new ager here, and I was blessed big time just hearing it sung in that venue. Come on people, rejoice... quit complaining, k??
(from a 60 year old g'ma!!)
Posted by Marilou | April 11, 2008 12:08 AM
Yeah, I was way confused too. I thought the second way they sang it tonight was a bit of rear covering. I still was completely STUNNED to hear it on AI. Much better than "Jesus and Gravity" previously on the show
Posted by PK | April 11, 2008 12:15 AM
Lyrics and melodies are changed in songs and are not a cause for action.
Actually, it is a violation of copyright law to change the lyrics to a song without permission of the copyright holder.
Wouldn't be surprised one bit if lawyers were involved here, because it was clear from the first performance that the producers wanted to purge the song of Jesus' name.
Posted by Mr. MacIan | April 11, 2008 12:54 AM
Also, and on a complete surface level in dealing with all the copyright and legal issues, before even getting there....
maybe the one person to truly be effected by all this pizzaz (yes, pizzaz. and steve told me. [for all your flight of the conchords fans]) is the person who was told:
"sir, you really should hear this song. i think it would be great to use in our show. we may have to change some words to make it fit. but take a listen."
i'm gunna go out on a limb and say.... i know at least one person heard the correct lyric and song.
if that's it, that's one more than the few seconds before it was referred to them.
word.
Posted by Joel Hawkins | April 11, 2008 3:20 AM
I went to a church that changed the lyrics of one of the Hillsongs -- it was Baptist so when it said, "Oh I feel like dancing," it was instead, "Oh I feel like singing," which didn't make any sense because we were already singing it. One of the youth leaders did swing dancing, though, so maybe they were just scared of what might happen if 'dancing' was said within the church.
Anyway, though, a little while back on The Rebelution's blog the issue came up of crediting God for successes or providences. Someone brought up the fact that Britney Spears used to thank God from her platform. I was surprised by the person's reference in the matter we were discussing, but I, too, recalled her doing so. When she won a music award I remember her saying, "Well, I just want to quote John 3:16 ..." The person who brought this up said something like, "She attributed her success to God. Does she attribute her craziness to Him, too?" I think this is a valid point. Britney Spears claimed to be a Christian throughout her early career. Which direction did her life really point? Was it a mockery of God or a testament of His Character and Faithfulness? Which direction is the American Idol show directing its viewers, really? Will it mock God or testify honorably of Him? Nsync, Creed, R. Kelly, etc., etc., praised God for their successes or "testify" of Him in their 'Thank-yous.' Is that really, truly proclaiming the Name of Jesus or is it something else entirely?
Personally, I think it's hurtful that they took His Name out of the song. When I was a kid, my mom had a car that God told her to give to a retired missionary at a church we used to attend. She obeyed. Later, when the lady was asked who gave her the car she avoided telling them the name of the friend who had specifically because people at that church didn't particularly like my mom and she didn't want to be "unpopular" with them. That was very hurtful and I'll never forget that.
I agree with what a commenter before me said, though, that we, too, are sinners. Church-goers in America are upset because Hollywood movies and shows, secular books, non-christians, etc. falsely represent or present Christians or Heaven or God. I think of more importance and concern is that we, claiming to be Christians, do the same -- even if to a lesser degree. One of satan's main aims is to dishonor God's Name (or steal the honor that should be given to God). Sometimes he tries to accomplish this end in very deceptive ways (see the Catholic church, for one). One of our great purposes on earth is to defend God's honor, and the honor of His Name, and to glorify Him in ways that testify of His Character, His Faithfulness, and His Love.
I guess we could simply ask if our praise of God does that and what end is accomplished by what others are doing and then pray for ourselves and them to be changed (or, if they won't change, removed from the public spotlight and thus harming others or mocking God) accordingly to correct any harm done or being done.
Posted by Nicole T. | April 11, 2008 3:58 AM
it was good music, no more and no less. lets not fool ourselves into thinking this was corporate worship.
now, perhaps a few of them are believers. this is good. lets not make a bigger deal out of this then needs to be.
Posted by James McLean | April 11, 2008 9:17 AM
Very interesting post. But I'm glad that they are "throwing the Christians a bone". I do think the "my Shepherd, my Savior" bit is a little ridiculous. Is Jesus really that offensive? Come on!
No, it's not corporate worship. It's an idol performance. An Idol performance of a worship song.
Posted by Christina | April 11, 2008 9:42 AM
I don't know what any of you are talking about. There was nothing watered down about it. I have it recorded on my DVR...the Idols sing the song word for word from the original. I recorded it on the High Definition channel not sure if that made a difference but the did say Jesus. I even replayed it for my wife who was out of the room at the time. I can't believe what I'm hearing on you tube. Sheppard sticks out like a soar them when you've sung this sung a billion times in church.
Posted by Anonymous | April 11, 2008 9:57 AM
Maybe since the show was LIVE...three gutsy kids pow wowed back stage before the curtain went up with an exciting plan to make up for the night before!!!??? Any takers????
Posted by Chad Edwards | April 11, 2008 10:21 AM
Wow on last night results show for American Idol they opened the show with the contestants singing Shout to the Lord again. This time they sang My Jesus as the first two words. It was so exciting to hear my saviors name on tv!
Posted by Pam smith | April 11, 2008 10:22 AM
I thought about a lot of things last night. It crossed my mind that AI producers were expanding their market. It occurred to me that some would argue that the singers did not understand what they were singing. So... why am I sitting here this morning still feeling goosebumps? Because I know that in my 47 years of knowing Jesus as friend, brother, Savior, High Priest, King and Lord God of Heaven and Earth - I have never been aware of a time when so many tens of millions of people around the world were joined together to hear Him be praised. While their are other great songs that speak of God's love and his "Amazing Grace", the World we know finds consolation in making it fit the god of their choosing. Last night's full and unedited version was undeniable praise to our Lord and Savior JESUS CHRIST. It doesn't matter who wanted it, what the motives were or if the singers meant what they sang. HE is worthy to be praised.
Posted by Randy | April 11, 2008 10:46 AM
Only HE does know our hearts. I wouldn't want to sing "My JESUS, My Savior..." if I didn't understand and believe. Why would Hillsongs want to force anyone to do so? It is nice to have it available for download. I know what is in my heart when I sing along, no matter what the words actually are.
Posted by gina | April 11, 2008 10:54 AM
Hey Kevin...forgive me if this is already commented on...I didn't have the patience to look...Not even close to Paul's statement in Philippians! He was commenting on personal attack not exploiting a song for a few more dollars! How can Christ be exalted when His name was taken out?! However, did you notice Jesus was put back in Thursday night? uh oh. Some one got in trouble which answers who and why they did it for the Wednesay night show!
Money money money is at the core here not the exaltation of the True Christ!
Posted by Dan | April 11, 2008 11:00 AM
could it be for all the legal ramifications that American Idol repeated the song on Thursday night and used the correct words, "My Jesus, My Savior?"
Posted by diane | April 11, 2008 11:01 AM
I was thrilled to hear them perform Shout to the Lord last night on AI!!! How amazing was that!!! I would just encourage all those who feel the same to write to FOX and let them know how much it was appreciated because you know unfortunately they'll probably be catching a lot of flack for it.
Posted by Tricia | April 11, 2008 11:11 AM
i share most of your thoughts here. when i was watching tuesday, i was actually (pleasantly) surprised to hear that they are sing SHOUT TO THE LORD on national tv. so i even got up of bed so i listen better. but then i was immediately disappointed to hear them removing Jesus' name from the song and replacing it with Shepherd. i'm sure it was done on purpose and i found it hypocritical.
and so i was surprised again to hear they were singing the same song to open thursday's episode and was glad they corrected themselves. whether they realized their 'mistake' by themselves or they were pressure to do so no longer matters to me.
Posted by alex | April 11, 2008 11:15 AM
I haven't heard anyone mention that Wednesday night actually did not end with "Shout to the Lord", but with Ben Stiller shouting expletives in reaction to Seacrest. I think this shows the true mindset of AI and I do not see where God was honered in that. God is given glory when truth is preached like grace alone, by faith alone, in Christ ALONE.
Posted by Jeremy | April 11, 2008 11:33 AM
They sang this song on Wednesday night and Thursday during elimination and Wednesday must have been cut short because Thursday performance included EVERY word of the song beginning with " My Jesus My Savior." The Bible says that His word will not go out void which means that regardless of why idol producers decided to sing it does not matter. Satan has just received a black eye and Jesus has just been uplifted and His word will now be in the spirit of over 30 million viewers through His precious Holy Spirit. Praise the Lord, this be the catalyst for the greatest revival mankind has ever seen.
Posted by Dennis | April 11, 2008 12:29 PM
In Thursday night's version they actually sang the song with correct lyrics, "My Jesus, My Savior." Amazing and powerful whether the singers were aware of it or not!
Posted by Jessica | April 11, 2008 12:53 PM
As has been noted above, they did sing "My Jesus, My Savior".
Posted by PJ | April 11, 2008 1:17 PM
I totally agree with Dennis..."His word will NOT go out void." I work on one of the "sister shows" of American Idol...so picture an office, with all of the producers, crew, etc. gathered in watching the live feed at our CBS offices, then this song comes on...an office filled with a few Christians....atheists and agnostic Jews. You could hear a pin drop....it was awesome.....the power that came through....nothing had to be said...no debates....just people being touched more than they realised...producers, writers...crewthat had never darkened a church door in their lives, or their only experience with Christians was a negative one. You don't always see the workings of us Christians that are behind the scenes...you don't know how much prayer went into getting a song with that message on a, let us not forget, a SECULAR show. So, from someone behind the scenes, the best thing you can do is write to the producer of Am. Idol and simply state how much you appreciate the diversity they showed in having an very inspirational song in their program. Period. No critizing. This will go farther than you realize. Also, pray, pray, pray for us Christians that have chosen Hollywood as our vocation, career and our mission field.
Posted by Beverly | April 11, 2008 1:27 PM
I'm sorry. As to where I agree that God's Word will not go void, the key words there are "GOD'S WORDS"
Proper study of scripture would know this to be the revelation of God through the Holy and Inerrant scriptures, not an emotional song written by (while no doubt a very nice person) an uninspired writer. Only the author's of scripture were inspired. See: 2 Pet. 1:21, 2 Tim. 3:16
I'm NOT saying it's a bad song, just that let's not get our emotions rawled up because a very secular show (I mean come on, American "IDOL") decided to sing it. Who knows what their motivation was as we cannot see the heart. It's not like repentance of sins was preached or anything. Everyone knows that people had rather sway back and forth to an emotionally driven song than hear solid doctrine taught and implemented anyways!
And as to where I did not see thursday's show (not really an avid watcher) I refer back to my previous post of on Wednesday's show, it actually closed with an actor shouting expletives, after the song ended. For those who believe the "spirit was all over it", I believe that would have answered that question.
I welcome your remarks.
Posted by jeremy | April 11, 2008 1:51 PM
My thoughts were similar to many of the above comments. I only watched a little of the wednesday night show, and missed the first performance and didn't even know that it had occured. then last night i was watching the results, and all of the sudden they are singing shout to the Lord! it shocked me when i actually heard them say "My Jesus" and as a few other people above stated- i noted that the three people who said Jesus' name were Brooke, Katie, and David- not that anyone but God knows- but if I had to guess I'd think those two girls are Christians. and the point above is interesting that possibly those three convened and decided themselves to sing Christ's name? :-)
So, I sat there listening, mostly so surprised by what I was hearing, but I must honestly say i was also somewhat uncomfortable- to hear a worship song being sung to my Savior and God by people who most likely- to many of them He is not their Savior? no we can't be the judge of that- and people who sing it in worship teams at churches could be unsaved as well and we don't know- but it just seems like sort of a slap in the face to God- singing a song like that but not personally being connected to the One who inspired it- or knowing Him and what the song is talking about...there's still something just not right about the performance of that song by that group of people...
yet the points above are valid that God can use any venue He wants, and the correct version- using Jesus' name and the word Savior as well- who knows how that reached the hearts of who knows how many people? and never hearing the song before could have an even greater impact on an unsaved person- plus the many people who will download it and replay it- also on youtube- it certainly can be used for God's glory- His word will not return void...also the impact of the song on the singers- and the future in their careers- only God knows how this whole situation will affect many many people...thankfully He is in control!
Posted by Krisitne | April 11, 2008 2:02 PM
I just wanted to say a little else- to Beverly- thank you for your post- that is really encouraging! who knows- how that impacted those folks, and it truly did show a side of Christians that the media rarely will report...I will pray for you as you shine your light in dark places...also one more thing- about the previous songs that had Jesus' name in them- the version of "this little light of mine" that was sung...a little different that shout to the Lord...
Posted by Kristine | April 11, 2008 2:26 PM
http://youtube.com/watch?v=z5zlI-aN0f0&feature=related
This version has a clear start with Jesus my Saviour, not something you see on network TV...
Posted by Anonymous | April 11, 2008 3:45 PM
Jason Castro and his family attend my church in Rockwall, Texas. He is a Christian and has asked for prayer because one of the other contestants is either an atheist or agnostic. I was told that Jason Castro encouraged a few of the others to sing "Shout to the Lord" after they at first balked at the lyrics. Just FYI: Jason's mother gave him the idea to get dreadlocks, and he now uses his look as a way to be able to witness to teens that normally wouldn't listen. Way to go, Jason!
Posted by Leslie | April 11, 2008 4:18 PM
It's true they did use My Jesus at the beginning of the show... I assumed that the words were changed because they started in the middle... My question is, did anyone else catch the quotation of scripture during Mariah Carey's song? IT started out with a narration of ...weeping stays for a night, but Joy Comes in the MOrning (Ps 30:5 I believe) and then in the middle of her song the narrator said... I will never leave you or forsake you...
Seeing this type of Christianity portrayed is somewhat surreal on secular TV but I think we have to take it as we get it. It's not right for anyone to judge the hearts of the people up there singing. We have no idea whether they are singing out of worship or some other motivation even in our own churches. Frankly it was a worship experience to me because I was singing along and worshipping my Lord... Jesus - He is my tower of refuge and strength. No one can take that away from me...
Posted by Ginghawk | April 11, 2008 4:25 PM
I have to say with all due respect that I'm so disappointed in the Christian response to this event. Why do we as Christians feel that we have to protect "our" things from non-believers? Not only were 8 young people asked to learn and sing a praise song to our Lord (who knows what impact that had?!), over 17 million people heard this song sung from their televisions. That's amazing!! The grace of God is available freely to all - he causes the sun to shine and the rain to fall on believers and non-believers alike. How does it belittle the God of the universe to have someone who might not believe in him sing a song that claims to? What are we so afraid of? We have no idea why this song was chosen. But the fact is, a song that we believe contains words of praise and truth was sung last night.
We complain when Hollywood is vulgar, racy, or inappropriate. Now we're complaining when they sing "our" songs. I don't understand. And I'm disappointed.
Posted by Kim | April 11, 2008 4:25 PM
So, someone must have gotten to the producers of American Idol. Thurs. they sang the song with the correct lyrics. I did not see Wed. performance, so I was shocked and amazed at the choice of song with the blatant use of Jesus' name. Praise God they sang it correctly on Thurs.
Posted by Fran | April 11, 2008 4:46 PM
I thought Hollywood was trying to confuse the issues. There is such a large push to play on our sympathies for Africa. Annie Lennox wore the T-shirt that said, "HIV POSITIVE" which I believe was an attempt to take a pro-active stand to wipe out the disease.
I'm all for wiping out the disease and singing Christians songs to celebrate God's power and sovereignty over things like AIDES and other STD's but I doubt any of those that participated on the American Idol show would have been as sympathetic if they were asked to sponsor a week long preaching campaign aimed towards stamping out adultery and promiscuous sex.
I thought the whole thing was typical new age, stamp the name of God on everything we do, sentimentality and liberalism.
Posted by Tim | April 11, 2008 5:57 PM
I know the people from hillsong who negotiated this deal thru Integrity Music, and the word change wasn't approved, but while they deal with that - they are quite happy the song was song used.
There are also very strong Christians in the American idol band, who are witnesses in places most of us don't have influence - let's rejoice that He is praised, even if by 'indifferent' vessels - let the fruit of our ministry be heard in our churches and in the churches of pop culture.
Let's reserve our 'outrage' for the real tragedies in this world...
Let his praises rise... Even from hearts as cold as stones... God can command praise from stones - not just the redeemed.
Posted by Batsirai | April 11, 2008 6:27 PM
I put this reply on some secular blogs:
Well, I can see why some people would be offended by there being a worship song in American Idol. But, at the same time, if all of the singers didn't mind singing it, I don't see why it's a big deal.
The connection between helping the world and praising Jesus go hand in hand. Not to sound like a "Jesus freak" or anything (but I am a youth pastor), but you simply can't love God without loving your neighbor. So, a worship song to the Christian God (even if they left out his name on Wednesday night...but, incidentally, they did say "Jesus" on Thursday night) should almost be like a rallying cry for Christians to do something about all the injustice in the world.
What surprised me are two things...
1. Why sing such an overtly Christian praise song in that context? I would think that a song like "Heal the World" would resonate to people of all religious backgrounds. It just seems odd that that song was chosen in that context. I liked it, but I can definitely see how it would have made some people uncomfortable.
2. Why take the name "Jesus" out in the first place? I don't think anyone pulled a fast one on the American public. Isn't it interesting that the name of Jesus (a man who didn't judge, forgave, offered life, believed in second chances, and inclusiveness) is more offensive (and needing censorship) than "Lord" (a name meaning "Master") and "King" (meaning, well, "Master").
My observation is this.
If Christians did more loving in the name of Jesus than judging in the name of Jesus, His name would be much sweeter to the world.
Anyway, I try my best to do this. And I hope that others will be inspired by that song to honor Jesus with their lives and not just with songs.
If you want to discover who this Jesus is, then come check out my blog where I am going through the Bible trying to read it without any preconceived ideas, reading it for what it is. I'm open for discussion too. So, please, if you are wondering WHY people make such a big deal about God, I'd encourage you to check it out.
http://supermannino.wordpress.com
Posted by Paul Mannino | April 11, 2008 6:53 PM
The version that you can download from iTunes is a professionally-recorded studio version. It's beautifully and powerfully sung, and Jesus' name is there, loud and clear. The 99 cents goes to worthy charities. It's definitely worth downloading.
Posted by Mrs. T. | April 11, 2008 10:18 PM
In response to Paul, thank you for your comment and insight. I am in agreement with your observation that Christians should do more LOVING instead of JUDGING in the name of Jesus for I believe that it is by no other NAME are we saved.
I feel that "Shout To The Lord" ( no matter who sings it ) is a truly annointed song and that many people, from all walks of life and with different beliefs are moved when they hear it.
Like a lot of others, I was amazed to hear it on American Idol and know that despite all the controversy, it was truly "the work of His hand " ( and I sing for JOY !!! )
Posted by Margo | April 12, 2008 1:24 AM
Was this the same show that had a brief clip of Gordon Brown, the British Prime Minister? If so, then the way he concluded his message was also significant. He ended by saying "and God bless you". This may have seemed perfectly normal to American ears, but here in the UK, political correctness would often outlaw such words. Indeed, when our previous Prime Minister went on British TV to inform the nation that our military were now directly involved in the Gulf War, he wanted to close by saying 'May God bless you all', but other cabinet members vetoed it. Glad to hear Gordon Brown say what he said - just a pity about 'My Jesus, My Saviour', or, as our musicians labelled it a few years back, "the new 'Majesty' ".
Posted by Kenneth Ross | April 12, 2008 4:39 AM
I go to Hillsong church in Sydney, Australia. And no, they didnt ask our church's permission to change the lyrics, which is why they had to redo it on the next night with the correct lyrics.
However I dont think for one second lovely Darlene or my church would consider suing. Thats ridiculous. The fact that the song was sung twice on American TV and has caused so many people around to world to be talking about it - that is priceless. This song, like all our songs, was never about Hillsong Church; it was about bringing glory to God, and if it gets people talking about God in all these chat rooms and forums...then how amazing is that!! Something like that can never be measured in money...I am sure that our church feels privileged to be a part of it!
Posted by Lauren | April 12, 2008 7:25 AM
Can I just say one thing? JASON CASTRO is a Christian. My parents and I were his Sunday School teachers when he was 5 years old. He was an awesome little boy. I don't know when he committed his life to Christ, but the entire town of Rockwall knows where he stands. Lake Pointe Church's worship leader, Danny Davis, put him on stage to sing songs like "Clumsy" by Chris Rice. Danny ain't an idiot! I know him, too, and he wouldn't put a nonbeliever on stage. Jason is a Believer, so there was at least one person on that stage who was worshiping Jesus while singing "Shout to the Lord." For Jason, I imagine it was a pretty awesome experience getting to sing a worship song international television that he's been singing at LPC since he was a little kid.
So start praying for Jason. I'm sure he needs plenty of prayer.
Posted by amanda | April 12, 2008 9:39 AM
I was thrilled to see the "idols" bow their hearts, raise their voices beautifully and worship the true GOD!
How ironic is that?
The real spoiler was Ben Stiller's profane tirade feigning disappointment that immediately follow that powerful worship. Typical schizophrenic Hollywood.
I love how our Lord continues to use the foolish things of this world to confound the wise.
I spoke more extensively about this here: http://togetheroneservant.blogspot.com/2008/04/looking-at-ground-with-flashlight.html
Posted by Randy Hurst | April 12, 2008 9:54 AM
On the Hillside Church website, under media response, they comment on American Idol as follows:
"Response About American Idol
Hillsong Church was thrilled to see the song "Shout To The Lord" performed recently on American Idol. It received an incredible response and was the fifth most downloaded song in this week's US itunes charts.
When the program first aired, the opening line of the song was changed removing the name of Jesus. Darlene Zschech (the writer of the song) and Hillsong Church were not asked, nor approved, of the name of Jesus being replaced.
In the following broadcast of American Idol, we were pleased to see that the song was performed again with the correct lyrics.
The see the first performance go to: http://youtube.com/watch?v=chXEraRnE4o
To see the second performance go to: http://youtube.com/watch?v=7NQu4PhhmEI "
Posted by Robert Davis | April 12, 2008 11:31 AM
HOW AWESOME THIS WAS! The first night my friend and I prayed for the contestants as they sang "Shout" and that even though the Powerful Name of Jesus was left out, the Lord would still drawn them and the audience to HIM! Then low and Behold, the next night they sang HIs Powerful Name which makes all demons flee! Praise God! I'm declaring all these contestants saved, delivered and hungry for the things of God and have Faith that it will manifest eventually. I'm believing that God will use them to lead people all over the country and the world even to HIM! To God Be the Glory!
Posted by Glory Girl | April 12, 2008 2:17 PM
This is the original version not the Chris Tomlin version.
Posted by Amer Icanidol | April 13, 2008 3:33 PM
They sang, "My Jesus" - I have it on my DVR - watch it on YouTube as well.
Posted by Mark | April 13, 2008 9:36 PM
How can any Christian watch this on national television and not be encouraged? I personally had chills and tears by this. Who cares who sang Jesus and why? Our God was magnified and uplifted on national television. We are worried about taking God out of schools and radio, and we're complaining about the motives of using such an awesome worship song on tv where millions are watching?? Come on!!
Posted by Karen | April 13, 2008 9:37 PM
I believe this song being sung was a miracle. I worshiped the Lord and saw his name sang to millions the next night.
When people read Christians debating things like this their reaction is, "why can't they just be happy. Why do they always complain."
So let's just rejoice that Jesus was glorified and get out of the legalism.
Posted by Anonymous | April 13, 2008 10:37 PM
Anytime a song is sung that was written by a worshipper of Jesus, annointed by God...it is a GOOD thing! ESPECIALLY when a bunch of people can hear it!
I am thinking, someone there at American Idol loves the Lord: )
Let's pray for the leadership there and their willingness to lift up the name of Jesus!!! Haleluiah!
I went to a jazz concert once--in a bar, and while the saxophonist was playing...I could tell he was Christian. The music wasn't Christian and he didn't say anything. I could just "feel" it in his music. At the end, sure enough, he gave an "altar call"--to drunk people!!! Yes LORD!!!!
His name is Kirk Whalum...and now he is an ordained minister too.
Posted by Chrisie Council | April 14, 2008 2:34 AM
The version they sang on the Thursday results show said Jesus not Shepherd, you can look it up on youtube. Also, Brian Houston the pastor of Hillson flew into LA to speak at our church today (Oasis Christian Center), he is absolutely amazing and was rejoicing that millions of people heard and saw people worshipping Jesus on TV. As Christians we have to be positive, have to see the glass half full and have to make the difference in the world instead of critiquing such amazing efforts! Praise God!
Posted by Kristin | April 14, 2008 3:56 AM
I think it was brave of someone to allow it on the show, especially due to Simon's seemingly anti-Christian views. If you watched American Idol on the next show they all opened with Shout to the Lord but starting with 'My Jesus.' When you are trying to raise money you have to appeal to people from all walks of life, I'm sure they don't want to offend people (believe it or not, some people will be offended) and perhaps stop more money coming in just because of one song (although Mariah Carey did say the name Jesus at the end of her song). This song is perhaps the most famous song in all of Christendom today, praise God for allowing it to be shown all over the world!(I live in England and to us that is a milestone to have a song like that on national television).
Posted by Steven Halford | April 14, 2008 4:54 AM
thanks to ai for putting a contemporary christian song, that represents a great majority of the u.s. on the show. keep this up and your ratings will go even higher! bt
Posted by bryan terhune | April 14, 2008 8:58 AM
Unbelievers singing Shout to the Lord, which Lord?? God will not be mocked.
Posted by Christine | April 14, 2008 1:26 PM
When I overheard my friends talk about I was so excited about it. That's great and you know what, it is during these times when we finally have to rise and speak the Truth in whom we believe, and when I say truth, I mean Jesus Christ and Him crucified for our sake. We may face the waves of opposition, but yet if stay firm on the Word of the Lord, we will break through. Truly His word will not return void. On my myspace, I have the first version embedded on it.
Posted by Jun | April 15, 2008 2:19 AM
When I overheard my friends talk about I was so excited about it. That's great and you know what, it is during these times when we finally have to rise and speak the Truth in whom we believe, and when I say truth, I mean Jesus Christ and Him crucified for our sake. We may face the waves of opposition, but yet if stay firm on the Word of the Lord, we will break through. Truly His word will not return void. On my myspace, I have the first version embedded on it.
Posted by jun | April 15, 2008 2:20 AM
Many of the above responses to AI leaving out the name of Jesus sound just like post-modern philosophy but with a Christian slant. "It is whatever it is."
Yet, "There is no other name under Heaven wherein we may be saved." That name is JESUS. Acts 4:12
Regardless of motive it was left out. Regardless of motive it was sung in a venue that has no intention of being worshipful. The pagan world nods once in a while in God's direction. This does not mean, however, that they are interested in turning in His direction.
Posted by Mark | April 15, 2008 11:34 AM
I have felt for years that this is an anointed song. There is a lot of supposition and second-guessing going on here, but my feeling is that the Lord can plant seeds in peoples' hearts with whatever He wants, and when an anointed song is sung for the millions of viewers, some hearts are going to be touched. Some is better than none . . . someone will see His glory through this beautiful rendition of Shout to the Lord. And we DO NOT know the hearts of these kids, so let's not suppose that they don't know what they're singing.
Posted by Jeannie | April 15, 2008 7:47 PM
In my opinion "Shout to the Lord" was chosen in this event for a reason which i don't know...as i have commented on other blogs "beware because the devil is a great deciever". But I realize that no matter what the purpose of AI in choosing this song is that most people around the world are taking about "Shout to the lord" and JESUS. Philippians 1:17-19 17 But the other of love,knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. 18 What then?notwithstanding, every way,whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached;and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice. 19 For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,
Posted by Azrel | April 16, 2008 4:12 AM
I hate to admit this, but I think they probably threw the song in to entice Christian viewers. Any marketing magician knows that the Christian community comprises an enormous lot of consumers. It's nothing but marketing genius to appeal to the Christian masses.
In reference to the song choice apart from motive, I'm so glad they did it. Just as creation itself speaks volumes about the reality of our Creator, so does that song encompass the character of our God in such a way that non-followers might be lifted closer to the truth upon hearing it. Way to go Darlene!!!!! And, hats off to the Idol producers for allowing this song to be sung!
P.S. I did notice that they said, "My Jesus," when they performed the song for the results show.
Posted by Judy Gilbert | April 17, 2008 12:30 PM
I have to send a P.S.
Since the producers of Idol are in the world, we couldn't expect any less of them than to employ every marketing strategy in the book. They were, after all, trying to raise as much money as possible. I shouldn't have used the word "genius," though--it was just a sensible strategy for folks who don't know the Lord. And I'm with all the people who are praising God for the fact that He was so beautifully lifted up in the eyes and ears of millions that night. Also, like some above comments read, our God inhabits His praises and His Spirit rang through that performance!!
Posted by Judy Gilbert | April 17, 2008 1:40 PM
One thing is for sure, had it been one of the more robust worship songs of another day, they would have had to change more than one word to make it suitable for public listening.
Posted by Kendall Holley | April 17, 2008 1:46 PM
One thing is for sure, had it been one of the more robust worship songs of another day, they would have had to change more than one word to make it suitable for public listening.
Posted by Kendall Holley | April 17, 2008 1:46 PM
HI, This American Idol segment has hit YouTube and it is now going around the world.It is not just 17million Yanks who have seen it - it is going everywhere! I'm an Aussie believer, and I am impressed that the US did this. I wonder if our Australian Idol producers would be so willing? I am not so sure they would, but now it has been done elsewhere, perhaps they will have the courage to present something like it 'Amazing Grace' perhaps? That would be awesome.
Posted by Ed from Australia | April 19, 2008 5:14 AM
I doubt they Aussie Idol would do anything like that. Last season the newspapers were complaining about all the Christians who were in the competition and how many contestants were from Hillsong or churches like Hillsong... I think it's great that it was done, changed lyrics or not the song is still blatantly about Christ. There is no other religion that describes it's gods in quite the same way as Shout to the Lord does....
Like Carter said
"I think it is better that they sang it with amended lyrics rather than not singing it at all. One step in the right direction."
I would love to know the influence or motivation behind it though
Tarun Stevenson
Posted by Tarun Stevenson | April 20, 2008 1:57 AM
I was AMAZED to hear them sing 'Shout to the Lord' on American idol. I am from England and I have to say - that would NEVER happen on our equivalent show Pop Idol - unless there was a revival! :-) But then...Pop Idol would probably cease to exsist! ha.
I think the USA is much closer to their Christian roots than us in England.
I wonder what it meant to the contestants!
Anyway - interesting posts!
Posted by annie | April 20, 2008 3:11 PM
I was AMAZED to hear them sing 'Shout to the Lord' on American idol. I am from England and I have to say - that would NEVER happen on our equivalent show Pop Idol - unless there was a revival! :-) But then...Pop Idol would probably cease to exsist! ha.
I think the USA is much closer to their Christian roots than us in England.
I wonder what it meant to the contestants!
Anyway - interesting posts!
Posted by annie | April 20, 2008 3:11 PM
Amazing reading the comments how some actually thought it was progress to sing words to a song that speak of "The Lord, my Savior, worship", but yet omit "Jesus".
People, that is syncretism.
It is wanting to sound religious, be considered a good Christian, yet displays an allegiance that is elsewhere outweighing allegiance to Jesus.
It is Oprah on her show saying "Jesus can't be the only way".
The First Century Church would never have suffered in Roman influenced culture filled w/ its religious pluralism if they had merely gone along and said "Jesus is to be worshiped along w/ the many gods worshiped in our culture". The Roman influenced culture would have simply responded, "Ok, we can add him to one of our many objects of our worship."
But the early church suffered persecution because they said Jesus is the ONE who was to be worshiped.
Let's not be naive, people.
Jesus as the only way, the only one worthy of worship offends sinners who hate him. If you stand for him, you too will be hated for that stand. Deep down many know this, and give in to the pressure.
Why? We would rather appear religious than stand for Jesus.
Posted by Ray | April 21, 2008 3:46 PM