Lydia, you brought up SO many good points in this video, and did so in such a kind, gentle, and courageous way. I think you handled the delicate topic of sifting through media as a Christian with the nuance that it deserves. Philippians 4:8 is a lot easier said than done. I've been thinking about this recently, because I love stories and music and the different forms they come in, but often, dark themes and idols creep in along with them. It makes me really sad, because creativity is such a gift from God and a way that we imitate Him, yet oftentimes we as humans use it in ways that dishonor instead of glorify the God who gave us the ability to write songs, stories, etc. I think it's important as Christians to remember that we have a choice to make in the media to consume, not because it sends us to heaven or hell - only Jesus can save - but rather, because it can draw us closer or further away from Him. It was so encouraging to hear your take (as I'm finding is consistent with your other videos) and I have great respect for your honesty and commitment to living out your faith on your online platform - it shows
I don’t even know what to say, other than thank you and amen. I couldn’t have said this any better. Your encouragement is so so valued. AND thank you for the recommendations. Glad you’re here 🥹
I’ve never liked Taylor Swift’s music contrary to popular opinion. I’ve been telling myself if the world is obsessed with and loving something or someone, odds are it goes against the Bible and Christian beliefs. Thanks for this. We as Christians need to speak up more about this kind of stuff!
I’d encourage you to watch the whole video before leaving a comment. At the end I summarise some key points we must remember, about Christ’s grace and love. 🤍
I am both a christian and a taylor fan. Personally I like her old albums more than her newer work. I think that a lot of her older songs are fine to listen to. I try to stay away from her more innapropriate songs. I think that you can listen to her appropriate songs without supporting songs like Karma and Guilty as Sin.
I definitely feel like more and more people 'praise' her and constantly talk about her and her concerts. Especially when I'm in uni it's always 'Taylor Swift did this, Taylor did that'. We need to be vigilant and remember there is a limit. To be discerning with the lyrics we are exposed to. And always remember to put God first!
Thank you for your video. As a long time fan, recently I felt so personally convicted to stop listening to her songs and to start praying for her and all fans. Her music took up so much space that I believe it has become an idol in my heart (but I was okay with it, barely noticing what is happening in my heart!). Yes I have the freedom to listen to some of her music that aren't idolising romantic love or trivialising what Christ did for all of us, but like you said when is enough, enough? Giving up her music is a very sad and hard choice to make because it feels like saying goodbye to a long time friend that I grew up with, but the reason is that it's no longer something that I can listen to while walking with God. I can't do both.
This is such a wonderful comment, thank you so much for sharing. It's encouraging to hear your story as I relate that it's not been an easy decision when there's so much about her music we love and yes, that 'friend' feeling. We're in this together. God bless you, it's so encouraging how you want to give up the things of this world for a deeper relationship with Him 💕
This is similar for me too. I was feeling convicted about listening to her music for a long time but I just didn’t want to give it up. Now that I’ve given up listening to her music for a year now I still find myself wanting to listen to it again. Especially with this new album release I was really experiencing FOMO. It takes a lot of strength and help from God to not start again. I still really admire her talent though. She is a very talented songwriter.
Thank you so much for the video Lydia! I was so eager to know what you thought, I think we share a lot of the same opinions. For me, I think secular music is okay because I only really listen to songs about love and family and friendship (which are the most beautiful God-given things) and of course this includes a lot of Swift's songs - like Superman on Fearless! I thought her lyricism in folklore and evermore was so beautiful, because the songs were about her mental health and personal experiences and I love that were in an age when celebrities can talk about mental health (such as Prince Harry and William!) but I found in TTPD the use of more swearing and explicit themes just wasn't very nice to listen to, because it takes away from listening to the storytelling and poetry.
Hi Grace, thank YOU for the inspiration to make the video! Totally agree with you here (especially that secular music can be great to listen to for your exact reasons) 💕
Felt the same about Aurora, previously my most listened to artist - i can't listen to her music anymore, due to a more recent song 'Devil is Human', an incredibly uncomfortable listen.
Strangely encouraged that my experience isn’t unique, but obviously sad with what’s going on in the music industry. A shame, too, that it can ruin the listening experience of all previously ‘okay’ songs.
I felt convicted after hearing guilty as sin? Almost made me cry because of how blasphemous it was. Her live performance of daddy I love him makes me wanna cry too.
I loved your perspective. What i took away from listening to you wasn't really about Ms. Taylor at all. Instead, it IS about what WE as Christians feel that WE, should or should not do. Yes, we need to pray for all people around the world. We wittness via our own testimony. And We, as Christians know that teaching comes from our own actions. We 'choose' what we will listen to based upon our own personal relationship with God, and our own internal convictions. Your one beautiful and smart young lady. Thank you for bringing the glory to our God. 😊
Ive always loved Taylors Music. Since Blank Space i became hooked on all of her music. I realised what i was missing from all other artists i never got. I was sort of bored in comparison to her lyrics, story telling, melodies and then her as a person. Her new album has grown on me. TTPD. ( because 2 albums is a lot) but i have definitely noticed it is "tortured". It does sound dark. With words throughout like ki**ing, D*ing, g*ilty as *in, blo*d, priest, excersie my *emons , the prophecy, angels, *evils .. praying...asylu*. Flesh n blood, "di*. H*ll heavingly, god, worshiping, glory. i get she does this with her albums. She chooses words to create this theme that is the Art. ( feeling, the sound, emotion, story etc) this is why shes so damn good. But yeah i did find all these religious type dark words. Like its written by a witches perspective from the 18th century lol. Yes she wanted to give it this dark element as she was in a darker sad place. But for real christians it can be a bit "eeeh". Like this line: "The crown is stained but you're the real queen Flesh and blood amongst war machines You're the new god we're worshipping Promise to be ... dazzling" Beauty is a beast that roars Down on all fours Demanding "more" Like i get what shes trying to say. But, it does rub me the wrong way hearing it.
Hi Lydia, thank you so much for sharing this. For the past week, I have been asking myself a similar question: should I continue to even listen to some of her songs after this new album? I have certainly been disturbed by the things you have mentioned on her lyrics.
Hey! I think it's great you've been asking that question, me too, and I've found everyone's comments really helpful. Thanks for your comment and God bless you 💕
I really don't think it's that deep to be honest! It is art with thematic elements and it doesn't mean that she believes in these themes literally. I found that restricting media based on my faith wasn't healthy and put my mindset into a sort of :religious ocd." Being human and having human feelings, and expressing them is not a sin in my opinion. Even if those feelings are dark.
I hear you! Thanks for sharing your perspective. I agree that we must be careful not to become legalistic, as I importantly mentioned at the end of the video. For me, listening just wasn't proving beneficial to my walk with Jesus. God bless you.
The song “Karma” has the words GD in the chorus. That's blasphemy! God would never approve blasphemy. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. No one should make a comparison to any situation and compare it to what Jesus Christ went through going to and hanging a sinless man on a sinners cross. The topic of Taylor Swift has become a slippery slope of pragmatism. Where will it end? In hell! Be careful little ears what you hear, be careful little ears what you hear, for there's a Father up above looking down on you in love. Be careful little ears what you hear. I have a nine-year-old granddaughter that is all about Taylor Swift. She was singing, “It's me hi, I’m the problem it’s me!” I told her I never wanted to hear her ever say that, SHE’S THE PROBLEM IT’S ME! Listen to the children singing out, They are the problem, it's me! Children are a gift from God, raise them as such! Their value is immeasurable! Don’t get lost in the idol worship of someone whose values no longer align with Christianity.
hiya, as a new christian, am i not able to listened to taylor without deeping the lyrics? and simplu enjoying the sounds of the music and the better lyrics?
Hey! Firstly, so great that you’re a Christian. I wasn’t sure how to answer your question so I’ve asked a couple of Christian friends for their opinion and here’s some thoughts: We have choice in this world. And as I said in the video, lots of Taylor’s lyricism and melodies are beautiful! I’d just remember the influence things can have on us - which, of course, we can’t entirely escape while we’re in this world. We’re called to be *in* the world but not *of* the world. For me, I’ve deemed the influence of her music and lyrics to not be helpful to my walk with Jesus. So how it’s influencing you is just something to bear in mind if and when you listen. It’s good to think about these things. God bless you 💕🙏🏼
proud of your boldness & courage sharing this! the gate is narrow & only few find it fr🙏🏼continue to speak the name of Jesus, warfare is way too deep to conform🥹, ❤️ u
I’m a 16 year old Christian and I personally enjoy Taylor’s earlier music as well as folklore, I do not at all support her as a person but I do like her music especially songs from speak now and fearless because as a teen it’s music I can relate to, I did not attend the eras tour but I did watch the film at the time I hadn’t heard most of hear later music only a few songs from midnights but not karma so hearing those lyrics was a bit of a shock for me because I had no idea that she sang that. I would not call myself a swiftie and I often pray for Taylor to receive Jesus in her heart and I hope one day she will become a true Christian and write more wholesome music. I really appreciate that you are so polite in this video it’s not often that I see someone being polite when I comes to this subject, I would love to see you talk about more subjects like this because as a teen it can be hard at times to listen to music especially when you don’t know every detail of the artist’s life and what they believe.
Hey, thanks so much for your comment. It really sounds like you're careful in what you listen to, and that's great. I've also enjoyed listening to her older albums! And it's great that you pray for her. Thank you for your kind words and God bless you 🙏🏼
KJ21 wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. I am horrified at the lyrics of many songs (spell-ing) and the storylines of television shows Choreography set up like rituals and all glorifying Satan/ witch craft- symbols such as Saturn 🪐 pyramids, hand signals etc all suggest that this is not accidental but purposeful influencing the younger masses to lead them astray I pray that the veil is lifted from the eyes of many and they are bold enough to reject the direction of this movement
Today, young adults are being introduced to ideas that call good evil and evil good. Entertainers have become possessed by inflated feelings, personal ability, privilege, and infallibility, which leads to a mindset that does not need God. Regrettably, their influence over others is leading them away from the truth and into darkness. “Axis of Beginning” is a stage play that can be read as a story and experienced as a performance to help support, inspire, and educate Godly truths.
I appreciate your video. But I believe people should be allowed to listen to whatever they want and shouldn't be made to feel guilty about it or that they're going to end up roasted in a fiery place. I grew up in a Christian household (mom's Catholic, dad's SDA). Dad banned anything rock or metal. Said they were the devil's work and that we'd turn out to be serial killers or worse if we listened to that kind of music. Used to beat up my brother over it among other things (not a very Christian thing do, IMO). I wouldn't get beat up because I was my dad's favorite, but I've got trauma from hearing the beatings. Now I'm in my 40s, still love metal, rock, and Taylor Swift. I've never killed anyone, abused anyone, or committed any serious crime. My husband also came from an abusive background and we want to stop the cycle with our family. Our daughter is welcome to listen to whatever she wants. We are doing our best to be good role models for her without shoving any religious hoohah down her throat. If she decides to become Christian or whatever in the future, that is up to her as well. I know not all Christians are abusive, but there's unfortunately a lot of them who are. I just hope people can just be accepting or tolerant instead of judgmental and overzealous.
Hey! Thanks for your comment. In the video I actually agree with your point that we ‘can’ listen to whatever we want. I also never said listening to Taylor affects salvation for those who know Christ. I’m so sorry you went through that experience. I’ve read many autobiographies with that story, and it saddens me that those things are done in the name of Christ. I think your take on parenting is great. My own parents (both Christian, Protestant not Catholic) allowed me freedom to make my own choices eg regarding music I listened to. They never forced Christianity on me, but simply shared the gospel so that I could make my own choice when I grew up. And, praise God, I’m now a Christian. Thanks again for writing this comment and being so respectful with your words. God bless you.
@@lydiahoughton Thank you for the kind words. I wish my parents were like yours, we might have turned out differently. My dad has mellowed in the last decade, and now thinks beating kids is un-Christian. He adores our daughter the same way he does me. We can't go back in time, but at least we are moving forward in a better direction. I'm not a fan of the Old Testament God, who I think is cruel and vain, but I think Christ is compassionate and accepting. If only more people were like Him, this world would be a better place. I wish you all the best. God bless you. 🌷
Great question. If I believe witnessing unto the gospel to be my most important responsibility (which I do) then it always matters. Plus, other people’s opinions aside, we are always accountable before God - we’ll fail, but it’s good to try our best.
Hey! If you watch the video, I don’t ‘freak out’, I simply discuss her music in light of the gospel. As I state many times in the video, it’s a discussion of her work and not an attack on Swift. God bless you.
Hey, as a Christian who has thought HEAVILY about the lyrics on "Guilty as Sin?" There's a few things to remember, 1. Nobody, NOBODY, can belittle what Jesus did on the cross, it's impossible. 2. Taylor is not enacting an attack on Christianity, these lyrics shouldn't be offensive, it's actually something we're very familiar with. 3. Assuming that Taylor is Agnostic, with a belief in something more, then these lyrics are actually incredibly beautiful. Because someone that's not Christian is showing that the Christian story is the STRONGEST metaphor for what she's going through. No other metaphor could say what she's saying. 4. I think the question marks in the song are very important! This WHOLE song is a question. The song fundamentally is about lust, and questioning if it's actually wrong, and asking WHY is it wrong. And asking if the way she's held is what's holy, she doesn't believe that, it's a question. In the song she believes she'll die in the not knowing (which hopefully not), but because the "slip back into the hedge maze, what a way to die" line. Lastly, I agree with you about Karma and False God and Dress, I don't listen to those three songs, but I'm vocal about that if anyone asks. However, Guilty as Sin? and Littlest Man Who Ever Lived, won't be added to that list. I think they're beautiful songs that the messages can easily be seen in Christians lives. I'm sorry this was so long!!! Thank you for sharing your perspective!
I think she’s worked hard, and enjoyed great success, and since I don’t think she’s a bad person, then God is doing work in her and he will bring her to a place that will both break her in a worldly sense and bring her to him. Which if and when that happens, can you imagine what God will be able to do through her after she has everyone’s attention as she does now? Keep an eye on her. Watch what he does with her. I bet it will be great, it wont glorify her, and it will give God a wonderful stage to reach people from.
Do you have any recommendations for good female Christian music artists similar to Taylor swifts style? I’m trying to add more Christian music to my playlist besides just Taylor, and I would love to hear from someone with a Godly perspective!!!❤❤❤
Ah I love this comment!! But admittedly, not really. I’ve been thinking about this over the past couple of days and I better start doing my research haha ❤️
I also had a lot of issues with her Lover album. Even a song on 1989 (didnt realize at the time but years later). One of her songs willow (i think, cant remember, i dont listen to a lot of her newer stuff) pays homeage to witchcraft. She does a witch ritual onstage during the eras tour. Then the midnights album and now TTPD. I dont find the cussing edifying and the religious imagery is sacrilegious. Its disappointing, she has a gift for story telling, but no respect for God. We all sin and fall short, we all need a savior. She has an enormous platform and we will just have to keep praying.
Hey! Great point. I agree. Though I’m British not American so won’t be voting in the election. I try and be as discerning as possible when voting in the UK 😊
I appreciate your take in this video, though I do think your thoughts on the matter of TTPD-era Taylor Swift are a lot more forgiving than mine are. Anyone who compares themselves to Christ should not be trusted, either in art, politics or media in general.
Hey Lydia, I love your video. I love Taylor Swift's music. The Tourtured Poets Department is one of my favorite albums. I am also a Christian and try to build my relationship with Jesus daily with my cousin. We don't know Taylor as a person and her songs are about things she has gone through so I don't think she is glorifying darkness, more that she is sharing things she has gone through. Many people can relate to her which is why she has a massive fanbase. I have a question for you. As a Christian, are we supposed to just listen to worship music?
Hey! Thanks for your comment and sharing your perspective. To answer your question, I believe we ‘can’ listen to whatever we want. I certainly listen to secular music. But to point back to 1 Corinthians 10:23, not everything is beneficial. For me, Swift’s new music is falling into that category. God bless you.
Do you imagine people in Heaven with makeup, fake hair, dyed hair, fake eyelashes, piercings, jewellery, fake nails, nail polish, tattoos, showing their breasts, their belly, their thighs, etc... OR do you imagine them being natural and covered, the way GOD created them? If you want to go to Heaven, you have to be natural. Boys and *Girls* , men and *women* .
Hey! I believe God created man and woman, in His image, absolutely. But I believe faith in Jesus to be the only way to heaven. Our works don’t contribute to what He accomplished on the cross - love for Him, by His power, is what enables us to want to live a life that pleases Him. God bless you.
I only listen to some of her songs. I have been a Christian for years. I started listening to her in 2007 when my 1 yr old granddaughter moved in. Her and Miley. Listen to the words of trump. He is horrible with everything.
No one forces you to listen. You do not have the right to tell over people to tell others what to like. The Bible is extremely dark. I am hoping you still read it but it doesn't seem you do
Hey! I read the Bible daily 😊 and if you notice in the video, I never say you can’t listen to Taylor Swift. I simply discuss her work in light of the gospel. God bless you.
I am a Christian and I really like Taylor swift I am a swiftie and I don’t believe that she should be cussing or having illicit affairs but you’re pointing out the bad things she is doing and the lyrics yes they can sound dark but she was having a hard time for the past couple years and maybe depressed and I don’t think we should be mad at her or think they are dark or devil like we should try and help her get through it and pray that God is with her and the whole (I want to kill her) it’s a lyric she not actually killing people and the false God song and karma and blank space and all that If you’re mad that she’s use terms like that or words then what about all these other artists like Olivia Rodrigo or any artist are you going to make a video about them too? And the devil thing are rumors and that picture it’s not real she’s not worshiping the devil I don’t believe that you can even worship anyone else other then the Lord God and Jesus Christ. But I don’t think we should be giving reasons why not to like her we should just pray for her to reunite with God and leave it at that
Hey! As I said in the video: I understand she's gone through a hard time and art is a means of expressing that; it's good to pray for her. In terms of Olivia Rodrigo, I completely avoid her music. As I said in the video, Taylor is pretty much the only secular artist I've been regularly listening to. I just want to emphasise we each have the choice: for me, TTPD isn't something I want to be listening to. God bless you.
Yall know Taylor grew up her whole life and still is christian, shes just not as crazy about it as other. shes not going out of her way to offend Jesus and wtv bc she still is christian - not every thing is done to offend yalls religion (No hate to anything mentioned in this video as anyone is entitled to their own opinions and beliefs)
Hey, thanks for your comment. Taylor's faith isn't something I can comment on, because I don't know her heart. But she's not creating overtly Christian/worship music and that's what I was commenting on in this video. This video was less about her music 'offending Christianity' and more about whether it's beneficial to listen to, as a Christian. God bless you.
It’s your choice if you watch or not, and in the video I actually agree with your point, that we ‘can’ listen to whatever we want. I just made this video for anyone who might find it helpful. God bless you 😊
I respect your beliefs and opinions of course but if Taylor isn’t religious then how can you really expect her to accommodate your beliefs within her songs. They are reflective of her thoughts and feelings … not yours. No hate whatsoever I just think enjoying or creating music with religious vocabulary or ‘dark undertones’ does not make the writer or consumer a bad person or a sinner and you shouldn’t feel guilt or shame ❤
Hey! Thanks for your comment. You’re right that Taylor’s music isn’t overtly Christian, as I mentioned in the video. It’s more a case of if it’s beneficial for me, as a Christian, to listen to such lyrics/themes - that’s what I was primarily discussing here. And just as a side note - as a Christian I believe we’re all sinners in need of a Saviour, who is Jesus Christ. God bless you 😊
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Lydia, you brought up SO many good points in this video, and did so in such a kind, gentle, and courageous way. I think you handled the delicate topic of sifting through media as a Christian with the nuance that it deserves. Philippians 4:8 is a lot easier said than done. I've been thinking about this recently, because I love stories and music and the different forms they come in, but often, dark themes and idols creep in along with them. It makes me really sad, because creativity is such a gift from God and a way that we imitate Him, yet oftentimes we as humans use it in ways that dishonor instead of glorify the God who gave us the ability to write songs, stories, etc. I think it's important as Christians to remember that we have a choice to make in the media to consume, not because it sends us to heaven or hell - only Jesus can save - but rather, because it can draw us closer or further away from Him.
It was so encouraging to hear your take (as I'm finding is consistent with your other videos) and I have great respect for your honesty and commitment to living out your faith on your online platform - it shows
I don’t even know what to say, other than thank you and amen. I couldn’t have said this any better. Your encouragement is so so valued. AND thank you for the recommendations. Glad you’re here 🥹
I’ve never liked Taylor Swift’s music contrary to popular opinion. I’ve been telling myself if the world is obsessed with and loving something or someone, odds are it goes against the Bible and Christian beliefs. Thanks for this. We as Christians need to speak up more about this kind of stuff!
Amen. Thank you so much for the encouraging comment. God bless you!
I’d encourage you to watch the whole video before leaving a comment. At the end I summarise some key points we must remember, about Christ’s grace and love. 🤍
I am both a christian and a taylor fan. Personally I like her old albums more than her newer work. I think that a lot of her older songs are fine to listen to. I try to stay away from her more innapropriate songs. I think that you can listen to her appropriate songs without supporting songs like Karma and Guilty as Sin.
I definitely like her older albums more, too! Thanks for your comment and sharing your perspective 😊
I definitely feel like more and more people 'praise' her and constantly talk about her and her concerts. Especially when I'm in uni it's always 'Taylor Swift did this, Taylor did that'. We need to be vigilant and remember there is a limit. To be discerning with the lyrics we are exposed to. And always remember to put God first!
Amen! Beautifully put, God bless you.
but if youre not christian whats the problem in praising an artist you like?
Nice video Lydia!! Would be interested in the same type of format but with other artists, or even movies or tv shows
God bless you
Oooo okay! Thanks for the suggestion. God bless you!
Thank you for your video. As a long time fan, recently I felt so personally convicted to stop listening to her songs and to start praying for her and all fans. Her music took up so much space that I believe it has become an idol in my heart (but I was okay with it, barely noticing what is happening in my heart!). Yes I have the freedom to listen to some of her music that aren't idolising romantic love or trivialising what Christ did for all of us, but like you said when is enough, enough? Giving up her music is a very sad and hard choice to make because it feels like saying goodbye to a long time friend that I grew up with, but the reason is that it's no longer something that I can listen to while walking with God. I can't do both.
This is such a wonderful comment, thank you so much for sharing. It's encouraging to hear your story as I relate that it's not been an easy decision when there's so much about her music we love and yes, that 'friend' feeling. We're in this together. God bless you, it's so encouraging how you want to give up the things of this world for a deeper relationship with Him 💕
This is similar for me too. I was feeling convicted about listening to her music for a long time but I just didn’t want to give it up. Now that I’ve given up listening to her music for a year now I still find myself wanting to listen to it again. Especially with this new album release I was really experiencing FOMO. It takes a lot of strength and help from God to not start again. I still really admire her talent though. She is a very talented songwriter.
Thank you so much for the video Lydia! I was so eager to know what you thought, I think we share a lot of the same opinions. For me, I think secular music is okay because I only really listen to songs about love and family and friendship (which are the most beautiful God-given things) and of course this includes a lot of Swift's songs - like Superman on Fearless! I thought her lyricism in folklore and evermore was so beautiful, because the songs were about her mental health and personal experiences and I love that were in an age when celebrities can talk about mental health (such as Prince Harry and William!) but I found in TTPD the use of more swearing and explicit themes just wasn't very nice to listen to, because it takes away from listening to the storytelling and poetry.
Hi Grace, thank YOU for the inspiration to make the video! Totally agree with you here (especially that secular music can be great to listen to for your exact reasons) 💕
Felt the same about Aurora, previously my most listened to artist - i can't listen to her music anymore, due to a more recent song 'Devil is Human', an incredibly uncomfortable listen.
Strangely encouraged that my experience isn’t unique, but obviously sad with what’s going on in the music industry. A shame, too, that it can ruin the listening experience of all previously ‘okay’ songs.
I felt convicted after hearing guilty as sin? Almost made me cry because of how blasphemous it was. Her live performance of daddy I love him makes me wanna cry too.
I hear you and I know it can be disappointing
I loved your perspective. What i took away from listening to you wasn't really about Ms. Taylor at all. Instead, it IS about what WE as Christians feel that WE, should or should not do.
Yes, we need to pray for all people around the world.
We wittness via our own testimony. And We, as Christians know that teaching comes from our own actions. We 'choose' what we will listen to based upon our own personal relationship with God, and our own internal convictions.
Your one beautiful and smart young lady. Thank you for bringing the glory to our God. 😊
Thank you SO much!! Yes, you’re exactly right. You’ve really encouraged me ❤️
Ive always loved Taylors Music. Since Blank Space i became hooked on all of her music. I realised what i was missing from all other artists i never got. I was sort of bored in comparison to her lyrics, story telling, melodies and then her as a person. Her new album has grown on me. TTPD. ( because 2 albums is a lot) but i have definitely noticed it is "tortured". It does sound dark. With words throughout like ki**ing, D*ing, g*ilty as *in, blo*d, priest, excersie my *emons , the prophecy, angels, *evils .. praying...asylu*. Flesh n blood, "di*. H*ll
heavingly, god, worshiping, glory.
i get she does this with her albums. She chooses words to create this theme that is the Art. ( feeling, the sound, emotion, story etc) this is why shes so damn good. But yeah i did find all these religious type dark words. Like its written by a witches perspective from the 18th century lol. Yes she wanted to give it this dark element as she was in a darker sad place. But for real christians it can be a bit "eeeh".
Like this line:
"The crown is stained but you're the real queen
Flesh and blood amongst war machines
You're the new god we're worshipping
Promise to be ... dazzling"
Beauty is a beast that roars
Down on all fours
Demanding "more"
Like i get what shes trying to say. But, it does rub me the wrong way hearing it.
Thank you for sharing this. I completely agree 🙏🏼
Hi Lydia, thank you so much for sharing this. For the past week, I have been asking myself a similar question: should I continue to even listen to some of her songs after this new album? I have certainly been disturbed by the things you have mentioned on her lyrics.
Hey! I think it's great you've been asking that question, me too, and I've found everyone's comments really helpful. Thanks for your comment and God bless you 💕
I really don't think it's that deep to be honest! It is art with thematic elements and it doesn't mean that she believes in these themes literally. I found that restricting media based on my faith wasn't healthy and put my mindset into a sort of :religious ocd." Being human and having human feelings, and expressing them is not a sin in my opinion. Even if those feelings are dark.
I hear you! Thanks for sharing your perspective. I agree that we must be careful not to become legalistic, as I importantly mentioned at the end of the video. For me, listening just wasn't proving beneficial to my walk with Jesus. God bless you.
The song “Karma” has the words GD in the chorus. That's blasphemy! God would never approve blasphemy. God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
No one should make a comparison to any situation and compare it to what Jesus Christ went through going to and hanging a sinless man on a sinners cross. The topic of Taylor Swift has become a slippery slope of pragmatism. Where will it end? In hell!
Be careful little ears what you hear, be careful little ears what you hear, for there's a Father up above looking down on you in love. Be careful little ears what you hear.
I have a nine-year-old granddaughter that is all about Taylor Swift. She was singing, “It's me hi, I’m the problem it’s me!” I told her I never wanted to hear her ever say that, SHE’S THE PROBLEM IT’S ME! Listen to the children singing out, They are the problem, it's me! Children are a gift from God, raise them as such! Their value is immeasurable! Don’t get lost in the idol worship of someone whose values no longer align with Christianity.
hiya, as a new christian, am i not able to listened to taylor without deeping the lyrics? and simplu enjoying the sounds of the music and the better lyrics?
Hey! Firstly, so great that you’re a Christian. I wasn’t sure how to answer your question so I’ve asked a couple of Christian friends for their opinion and here’s some thoughts:
We have choice in this world. And as I said in the video, lots of Taylor’s lyricism and melodies are beautiful! I’d just remember the influence things can have on us - which, of course, we can’t entirely escape while we’re in this world. We’re called to be *in* the world but not *of* the world. For me, I’ve deemed the influence of her music and lyrics to not be helpful to my walk with Jesus. So how it’s influencing you is just something to bear in mind if and when you listen.
It’s good to think about these things. God bless you 💕🙏🏼
proud of your boldness & courage sharing this! the gate is narrow & only few find it fr🙏🏼continue to speak the name of Jesus, warfare is way too deep to conform🥹, ❤️ u
Amen. You’re the best, thank you 🫶🏼✨
I only like Taylor's evermore and folklore albums.I can't even listen to this TTPD album bcz' its so dark and have negative vibes,so much sadness.
I hear you.
I’m a 16 year old Christian and I personally enjoy Taylor’s earlier music as well as folklore, I do not at all support her as a person but I do like her music especially songs from speak now and fearless because as a teen it’s music I can relate to, I did not attend the eras tour but I did watch the film at the time I hadn’t heard most of hear later music only a few songs from midnights but not karma so hearing those lyrics was a bit of a shock for me because I had no idea that she sang that. I would not call myself a swiftie and I often pray for Taylor to receive Jesus in her heart and I hope one day she will become a true Christian and write more wholesome music. I really appreciate that you are so polite in this video it’s not often that I see someone being polite when I comes to this subject, I would love to see you talk about more subjects like this because as a teen it can be hard at times to listen to music especially when you don’t know every detail of the artist’s life and what they believe.
Hey, thanks so much for your comment. It really sounds like you're careful in what you listen to, and that's great. I've also enjoyed listening to her older albums! And it's great that you pray for her. Thank you for your kind words and God bless you 🙏🏼
I'm a great deal older than you, but I want you to know you are a breath of fresh air to those who love Jesus!
Oh my goodness, thank you for this comment. It made me tear up 🥹
KJ21
wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.
I am horrified at the lyrics of many songs (spell-ing) and the storylines of television shows
Choreography set up like rituals and all glorifying Satan/ witch craft- symbols such as Saturn 🪐 pyramids, hand signals etc all suggest that this is not accidental but purposeful influencing the younger masses to lead them astray
I pray that the veil is lifted from the eyes of many and they are bold enough to reject the direction of this movement
Amen!
Today, young adults are being introduced to ideas that call good evil and evil good. Entertainers have become possessed by inflated feelings, personal ability, privilege, and infallibility, which leads to a mindset that does not need God. Regrettably, their influence over others is leading them away from the truth and into darkness. “Axis of Beginning” is a stage play that can be read as a story and experienced as a performance to help support, inspire, and educate Godly truths.
I appreciate your video. But I believe people should be allowed to listen to whatever they want and shouldn't be made to feel guilty about it or that they're going to end up roasted in a fiery place.
I grew up in a Christian household (mom's Catholic, dad's SDA). Dad banned anything rock or metal. Said they were the devil's work and that we'd turn out to be serial killers or worse if we listened to that kind of music. Used to beat up my brother over it among other things (not a very Christian thing do, IMO). I wouldn't get beat up because I was my dad's favorite, but I've got trauma from hearing the beatings.
Now I'm in my 40s, still love metal, rock, and Taylor Swift. I've never killed anyone, abused anyone, or committed any serious crime. My husband also came from an abusive background and we want to stop the cycle with our family. Our daughter is welcome to listen to whatever she wants. We are doing our best to be good role models for her without shoving any religious hoohah down her throat. If she decides to become Christian or whatever in the future, that is up to her as well. I know not all Christians are abusive, but there's unfortunately a lot of them who are. I just hope people can just be accepting or tolerant instead of judgmental and overzealous.
Hey! Thanks for your comment. In the video I actually agree with your point that we ‘can’ listen to whatever we want. I also never said listening to Taylor affects salvation for those who know Christ.
I’m so sorry you went through that experience. I’ve read many autobiographies with that story, and it saddens me that those things are done in the name of Christ.
I think your take on parenting is great. My own parents (both Christian, Protestant not Catholic) allowed me freedom to make my own choices eg regarding music I listened to. They never forced Christianity on me, but simply shared the gospel so that I could make my own choice when I grew up. And, praise God, I’m now a Christian.
Thanks again for writing this comment and being so respectful with your words. God bless you.
@@lydiahoughton Thank you for the kind words. I wish my parents were like yours, we might have turned out differently. My dad has mellowed in the last decade, and now thinks beating kids is un-Christian. He adores our daughter the same way he does me. We can't go back in time, but at least we are moving forward in a better direction.
I'm not a fan of the Old Testament God, who I think is cruel and vain, but I think Christ is compassionate and accepting. If only more people were like Him, this world would be a better place. I wish you all the best. God bless you. 🌷
Brilliant video! Very good, Extremely talented, but someone of these lyrics straddle the line of blasphemy vs beauty.
Thank you so much!! And you’re absolutely right.
Why would anyone else at the concert need to know your opinion of Karma etc? Or why would you need them to know?
Great question. If I believe witnessing unto the gospel to be my most important responsibility (which I do) then it always matters. Plus, other people’s opinions aside, we are always accountable before God - we’ll fail, but it’s good to try our best.
I knew the evangelicals would freak out…can’t they leave her alone??
Hey! If you watch the video, I don’t ‘freak out’, I simply discuss her music in light of the gospel. As I state many times in the video, it’s a discussion of her work and not an attack on Swift. God bless you.
@@lydiahoughton I agree that “freak out” was not the best description of your specific video. My apologies
@@spatt1997 That's kind. God bless you.
Hey, as a Christian who has thought HEAVILY about the lyrics on "Guilty as Sin?" There's a few things to remember,
1. Nobody, NOBODY, can belittle what Jesus did on the cross, it's impossible.
2. Taylor is not enacting an attack on Christianity, these lyrics shouldn't be offensive, it's actually something we're very familiar with.
3. Assuming that Taylor is Agnostic, with a belief in something more, then these lyrics are actually incredibly beautiful. Because someone that's not Christian is showing that the Christian story is the STRONGEST metaphor for what she's going through. No other metaphor could say what she's saying.
4. I think the question marks in the song are very important! This WHOLE song is a question. The song fundamentally is about lust, and questioning if it's actually wrong, and asking WHY is it wrong. And asking if the way she's held is what's holy, she doesn't believe that, it's a question. In the song she believes she'll die in the not knowing (which hopefully not), but because the "slip back into the hedge maze, what a way to die" line.
Lastly, I agree with you about Karma and False God and Dress, I don't listen to those three songs, but I'm vocal about that if anyone asks.
However, Guilty as Sin? and Littlest Man Who Ever Lived, won't be added to that list. I think they're beautiful songs that the messages can easily be seen in Christians lives.
I'm sorry this was so long!!!
Thank you for sharing your perspective!
Thanks for sharing your perspective 😊
I think she’s worked hard, and enjoyed great success, and since I don’t think she’s a bad person, then God is doing work in her and he will bring her to a place that will both break her in a worldly sense and bring her to him. Which if and when that happens, can you imagine what God will be able to do through her after she has everyone’s attention as she does now? Keep an eye on her. Watch what he does with her. I bet it will be great, it wont glorify her, and it will give God a wonderful stage to reach people from.
Yup I prayed that just this morning! What an amazing thing it would be.
Do you have any recommendations for good female Christian music artists similar to Taylor swifts style? I’m trying to add more Christian music to my playlist besides just Taylor, and I would love to hear from someone with a Godly perspective!!!❤❤❤
Ah I love this comment!! But admittedly, not really. I’ve been thinking about this over the past couple of days and I better start doing my research haha ❤️
In terms of worship music I LOVE: CityAlight and SovereignGraceMusic 🥰
@@lydiahoughton I would love to see a video of just any recommendations!!! ❤️
@@leahc8119 ooo good idea!! Thanks 🥰
@@leahc8119 Britt Nicole and Riley Clemmons is really good 😊
I like how u said nothing directly mean or rude abt her. PS my name's Lydia too :0
Lydias unite haha! And praise God, thank you for saying that 🤍
I also had a lot of issues with her Lover album. Even a song on 1989 (didnt realize at the time but years later). One of her songs willow (i think, cant remember, i dont listen to a lot of her newer stuff) pays homeage to witchcraft. She does a witch ritual onstage during the eras tour. Then the midnights album and now TTPD. I dont find the cussing edifying and the religious imagery is sacrilegious. Its disappointing, she has a gift for story telling, but no respect for God. We all sin and fall short, we all need a savior. She has an enormous platform and we will just have to keep praying.
Amen, thanks for your comment 🙏🏼
Does her content lead you to Truth, Beauty, and Goodness? No? Then stop. Yes? Carry on.
Love this 👏🏼
Hoping you can be as discerning about trump as you are about swift.
Hey! Great point. I agree. Though I’m British not American so won’t be voting in the election. I try and be as discerning as possible when voting in the UK 😊
In the occult, Saturn (Lucifer) is the god of karma. Saturn worship. Black cube
Wow I didn’t know that. Thanks for your comment!
a lot of people just thing saturn is a pretty planet bc of the rings, could be the same for her 😭
@@moonecakes3749 hopefully 🙏🏻
I appreciate your take in this video, though I do think your thoughts on the matter of TTPD-era Taylor Swift are a lot more forgiving than mine are.
Anyone who compares themselves to Christ should not be trusted, either in art, politics or media in general.
Thanks for your comment. May God bless you 🙏🏼
If a vocalist of Slayer can be Roman Catholic and sing their songs, I don't think Taylor Swift songs would be very damaging to listen to.
Perhaps, although for me I’ve found my conscience much clearer since I’ve taken a step back from listening
Hey Lydia, I love your video. I love Taylor Swift's music. The Tourtured Poets Department is one of my favorite albums. I am also a Christian and try to build my relationship with Jesus daily with my cousin. We don't know Taylor as a person and her songs are about things she has gone through so I don't think she is glorifying darkness, more that she is sharing things she has gone through. Many people can relate to her which is why she has a massive fanbase. I have a question for you. As a Christian, are we supposed to just listen to worship music?
Hey! Thanks for your comment and sharing your perspective. To answer your question, I believe we ‘can’ listen to whatever we want. I certainly listen to secular music. But to point back to 1 Corinthians 10:23, not everything is beneficial. For me, Swift’s new music is falling into that category. God bless you.
I never really like Taylor Swift
Do you imagine people in Heaven with makeup, fake hair, dyed hair, fake eyelashes, piercings, jewellery, fake nails, nail polish, tattoos, showing their breasts, their belly, their thighs, etc...
OR do you imagine them being natural and covered, the way GOD created them?
If you want to go to Heaven, you have to be natural.
Boys and *Girls* , men and *women* .
Hey! I believe God created man and woman, in His image, absolutely. But I believe faith in Jesus to be the only way to heaven. Our works don’t contribute to what He accomplished on the cross - love for Him, by His power, is what enables us to want to live a life that pleases Him. God bless you.
I only listen to some of her songs. I have been a Christian for years. I started listening to her in 2007 when my 1 yr old granddaughter moved in. Her and Miley.
Listen to the words of trump. He is horrible with everything.
Thanks for sharing!
No one forces you to listen. You do not have the right to tell over people to tell others what to like. The Bible is extremely dark. I am hoping you still read it but it doesn't seem you do
Hey! I read the Bible daily 😊 and if you notice in the video, I never say you can’t listen to Taylor Swift. I simply discuss her work in light of the gospel. God bless you.
I am a Christian and I really like Taylor swift I am a swiftie and I don’t believe that she should be cussing or having illicit affairs but you’re pointing out the bad things she is doing and the lyrics yes they can sound dark but she was having a hard time for the past couple years and maybe depressed and I don’t think we should be mad at her or think they are dark or devil like we should try and help her get through it and pray that God is with her and the whole (I want to kill her) it’s a lyric she not actually killing people and the false God song and karma and blank space and all that If you’re mad that she’s use terms like that or words then what about all these other artists like Olivia Rodrigo or any artist are you going to make a video about them too? And the devil thing are rumors and that picture it’s not real she’s not worshiping the devil I don’t believe that you can even worship anyone else other then the Lord God and Jesus Christ. But I don’t think we should be giving reasons why not to like her we should just pray for her to reunite with God and leave it at that
Hey! As I said in the video: I understand she's gone through a hard time and art is a means of expressing that; it's good to pray for her. In terms of Olivia Rodrigo, I completely avoid her music. As I said in the video, Taylor is pretty much the only secular artist I've been regularly listening to. I just want to emphasise we each have the choice: for me, TTPD isn't something I want to be listening to. God bless you.
Yall know Taylor grew up her whole life and still is christian, shes just not as crazy about it as other. shes not going out of her way to offend Jesus and wtv bc she still is christian - not every thing is done to offend yalls religion (No hate to anything mentioned in this video as anyone is entitled to their own opinions and beliefs)
Hey, thanks for your comment. Taylor's faith isn't something I can comment on, because I don't know her heart. But she's not creating overtly Christian/worship music and that's what I was commenting on in this video. This video was less about her music 'offending Christianity' and more about whether it's beneficial to listen to, as a Christian. God bless you.
@@lydiahoughton Hi thanks for the reply, sorry I interpreted the video slightly off - god bless
I’m not even going to watch this video, just the title is stupid. Anyone can listen to any type of music.
It’s your choice if you watch or not, and in the video I actually agree with your point, that we ‘can’ listen to whatever we want. I just made this video for anyone who might find it helpful. God bless you 😊
I respect your beliefs and opinions of course but if Taylor isn’t religious then how can you really expect her to accommodate your beliefs within her songs. They are reflective of her thoughts and feelings … not yours. No hate whatsoever I just think enjoying or creating music with religious vocabulary or ‘dark undertones’ does not make the writer or consumer a bad person or a sinner and you shouldn’t feel guilt or shame ❤
Hey! Thanks for your comment. You’re right that Taylor’s music isn’t overtly Christian, as I mentioned in the video. It’s more a case of if it’s beneficial for me, as a Christian, to listen to such lyrics/themes - that’s what I was primarily discussing here.
And just as a side note - as a Christian I believe we’re all sinners in need of a Saviour, who is Jesus Christ. God bless you 😊
christian but i personally listen to taylor swift 🩷
god will ALWAYS come first no matter what though