🎵 Bethel Music’s “We Must Respond”: When Powerful Worship Meets Theological Controversy

⭐ Rating: Thus Says AI – 82/100

A paradox wrapped in worship. Musically magnificent, theologically muddy.

📊 Review Summary

Concern	Level	Notes
Violence	None	Clean worship content
Language	None	No profanity whatsoever
Drug Use	None	N/A
Explicit Content	None	Appropriate for all ages
Spiritual Messaging	High Concern	NAR theology present; see detailed analysis
Verdict	Proceed with Discernment	Beautiful worship, serious doctrinal questions

🎧 CRY in a Nutshell

🎵 Album Name: We Must Respond (Live)
📺 Genre: Contemporary Worship / Charismatic
⏱️ Length: 2 hours, 5 minutes
🔢 Number of Songs: 18 tracks
📅 Release: January 10, 2025
🎛️ Record Label: Bethel Music
🎤 Featured Artists: Jenn Johnson, Brooke Ligertwood, Abbie Gamboa, Aodhán King, Brian Johnson, Josh Baldwin, Hannah McClure, John Wilds, and more
🎪 Recorded: Live at Cascade Theatre, Redding, California

🎶 Overview

Can worship be both breathtaking and problematic?

Bethel Music’s We Must Respond forces this question. Michael Carder at Jesus Freak Hideout calls it “a solid entry for Bethel” with “great tracks” from the collective. The 18-track behemoth showcases vocalists who command your attention. John Wilds opens with force. Jenn Johnson delivers authority. Brooke Ligertwood writes poetry in song.

The album pulses with the energy of thousands worshiping together. You can feel the atmosphere in tracks like the reimagined version of “Made for More.” The spontaneous moments, particularly Edward Rivera’s performance, capture something raw and genuine.

According to CCM Magazine, Jenn Johnson describes the title as more than a label. It’s “a declaration—the believer’s commitment to live active, surrendered lives that reflect the glory of God.” Her passion for church unity shines through “The Church,” which she co-wrote with UPPERROOM and Passion City collaborators.

But here’s the tension. This collective has crafted hope-filled anthems sung globally for over a decade. Songs like “Goodness of God” and “Reckless Love” dominate playlists. Their Grammy nomination for “Holy Forever” demonstrates musical excellence. Yet their parent church in Redding, California, teaches doctrines that many orthodox Christians find deeply troubling.

Does musical beauty excuse theological error?

🎵 Track Examples & Biblical Analysis

1. The Lamb (Alleluia) – John Wilds

This opener echoes the historic hymn “Christ the Lord Is Risen Today.” Wilds’ vocal prowess carries this celebration of Christ’s resurrection. The track references Revelation 5:12-13, where the Lamb receives worship from all creation.

Biblical Analysis: The focus on Christ as the slain Lamb aligns with Scripture’s central narrative. John 1:29 introduces Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” This theological foundation holds firm. The track successfully connects corporate worship to the heavenly scene John witnessed on Patmos.

2. No One Like The Lord – Jenn Johnson

Johnson commands authority here, creating what Jesus Freak Hideout describes as “a battle cry within each note and word.” The song celebrates God’s uniqueness and sovereignty.

Biblical Analysis: The theme reflects Exodus 15:11, where Moses asks, “Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods?” God’s incomparability runs throughout Scripture. Isaiah 46:9 declares, “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me.”

3. The Church – Jenn Johnson

The focus track. Johnson celebrates church diversity and unity. She calls believers to surrender agendas and pride, working as Christ’s hands and feet. The song envisions the global church from every nation and tongue unified.

Biblical Analysis: The vision of church unity mirrors John 17:21, where Jesus prays “that they may all be one.” The imagery of diverse tribes and tongues worshiping together reflects Revelation 7:9. Paul’s body imagery in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 emphasizes unity in diversity.

The call to lay aside personal preferences for kingdom purposes aligns with Philippians 2:3-4, which urges believers to “count others more significant than yourselves.” The emphasis on the gospel as the answer resonates biblically.

However, understanding which gospel matters. Does this song embrace orthodox Christianity’s gospel of grace alone through faith alone? Or does it subtly promote NAR theology about dominion and apostolic authority? Context from Bethel’s broader teaching raises questions.

4. Holy Song – Brooke Ligertwood

Ligertwood’s poetic sensibility shines. Jesus Freak Hideout notes it “has Ligertwood written all over it with its poetic phrases.” The track explores God’s holiness and majesty.

Biblical Analysis: God’s holiness stands as Scripture’s foundational attribute. Isaiah 6:3 presents the seraphim crying, “Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of hosts.” Revelation 4:8 echoes this eternal worship. Holiness means complete otherness—God’s separation from sin and perfection in moral purity.

5. If The Lord – Zahriya Zachary

Zachary delivers hope, creating what Jesus Freak Hideout calls “bound to be sung in many churches.” The track builds on themes of God’s faithfulness and provision.

Biblical Analysis: The conditional “if the Lord” likely references Psalm 127:1: “Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.” This wisdom acknowledges human dependence on divine blessing. Our efforts mean nothing without God’s empowerment.

6. Even Though I Walk – Hannah McClure

Based squarely on Psalm 23, this track declares faith through darkness. McClure proclaims God as Shepherd, Father, Savior, and Healer. According to Believer’s Companion, it’s “a declaration of faith and trust in God’s presence through every valley and trial.”

Biblical Analysis: The foundation in David’s beloved psalm provides solid ground. Psalm 23:4 reads, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” The bridge proclaims death’s defeated sting, echoing 1 Corinthians 15:55.

The use of Hebrew names (Yahweh, Abba, Jehovah) reflects biblical tradition. Jesus Himself used “Abba” in Mark 14:36, emphasizing intimate relationship with the Father.

7. Center – Abbie Gamboa

Personal and intimate, this track explores making Christ central. Jesus Freak Hideout praises “the depth the verses exhibit” and its personal feel.

Biblical Analysis: Colossians 1:18 declares Christ “is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent.” Making Jesus central aligns with Scripture’s call. Matthew 6:33 commands seeking God’s kingdom first.

8. Made for More – Jenn Johnson & Josh Baldwin

This reimagined version “roars emphatically,” according to Jesus Freak Hideout. The atmosphere captured in recording gives it fresh energy.

Biblical Analysis: Christians indeed are made for more than earthly existence. Philippians 3:20 reminds us “our citizenship is in heaven.” Ephesians 2:10 declares we’re “created in Christ Jesus for good works.”

However, “made for more” language in NAR contexts sometimes implies Christians possessing divine attributes or supernatural powers beyond what Scripture teaches. Discernment matters regarding the specific theology behind phrases that sound orthodox on surface level.

9. Jesus Have It All (Spontaneous) – Edward Rivera

This spontaneous worship moment showcases Rivera’s strength and energy. Jesus Freak Hideout calls it “a sleeper favorite,” refreshing in its delivery of a Jeremy Riddle original.

Biblical Analysis: Total surrender to Christ reflects Romans 12:1, which calls believers to “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” Spontaneous worship has biblical precedent in 2 Samuel 6:14, where David “danced before the LORD with all his might.”

⚠️ Content Warnings

🔪 Violence

No graphic violence.

🍺 Drug & Alcohol Use

None. No references to substance use or abuse.

🗣️ Profanity

None. Entirely clean language throughout. Family-friendly for all ages.

💑 Romantic or Explicit Content

None.

✝️ Spiritual Messaging

This section requires extensive attention.

The elephant has entered the room. Let’s address it honestly.

Bethel Church of Redding, California, has significant ties to the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) movement. While Bethel’s Pastor Bill Johnson has stated his church has “no official ties to the NAR,” the evidence suggests otherwise. Holly Pivec, author of books examining NAR theology, notes Johnson publicly participated in commissioning NAR evangelist Todd Bentley alongside apostles Ché Ahn and John Arnott.

What is NAR theology?

According to GotQuestions.org, NAR is “an unbiblical religious movement that emphasizes experience over Scripture, mysticism over doctrine, and modern-day ‘apostles’ over the plain text of the Bible.” The movement teaches that present-day apostles and prophets must govern the church, receiving new revelation equal to Scripture.

Key NAR concerns include:

• Modern apostles and prophets: NAR claims these offices operate today with authority equal to the original apostles. Scripture indicates apostleship required witnessing Christ’s resurrection (1 Corinthians 9:1) and performing authenticating signs (2 Corinthians 12:12). The apostolic foundation was already laid (Ephesians 2:20).
• New revelation: NAR prophets claim to receive new words from God. But Hebrews 1:1-2 declares God “has spoken to us by his Son,” and Jude 3 refers to “the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.” Scripture is complete and sufficient (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• Dominion theology: NAR teaches Christians must take control over society’s seven areas (government, education, media, arts, business, family, religion) before Christ returns. This contradicts Jesus’ teaching in John 18:36: “My kingdom is not of this world.”
• “It’s always God’s will to heal”: One former NAR participant writes this teaching caused “emotional torment” during illness, wondering what deficiency prevented healing. While God can heal, Scripture never promises healing in all cases. Paul’s thorn remained (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). Timothy had stomach troubles (1 Timothy 5:23). Epaphroditus nearly died (Philippians 2:25-27).
• Practices like “grave soaking”: According to Modern Reformation, Bethel School of Ministry students have reportedly practiced lying on graves of deceased Christians to absorb their “anointing.” This has zero biblical precedent and borders on necromancy, which Scripture explicitly condemns (Deuteronomy 18:10-12).

A pastor who stopped using Bethel music writes, “The NAR movement actually twist the Scriptures, and they teach dangerously wrong theology.” Modern Reformation magazine notes that in 2020, Bethel Music reported over $11 million in revenue, with $6 million from royalties. Churches using their music financially support these teachings.

Does this album explicitly promote NAR theology?

Not directly. Most tracks express orthodox truths about Christ’s victory, God’s holiness, and church unity. You won’t find explicit dominionism or false prophecy claims in these lyrics.

But consider: When you normalize Bethel’s music, you normalize their brand. When their brand grows, curiosity about their parent church grows. When people investigate Bethel Church, they encounter NAR theology. The pipeline exists whether intentional or not.

Is all Bethel music problematic?

Modern Reformation acknowledges “Not every song from Bethel, Hillsong, or Elevation is biblically unsound.” Individual tracks often express genuine worship. But stewardship questions remain. Would we write checks directly to ministries teaching error? Using their music effectively does that.

The tension is real. These musicians love Jesus. Their passion radiates authentically. Yet the theological framework they operate within distorts biblical Christianity in concerning ways.

🎯Verdict

✅ Reasons to Listen

1. Musical Excellence

The production quality is stellar. These are gifted musicians and vocalists. Jesus Freak Hideout notes “The collaborations pay off for some great tracks.” From John Wilds’ powerful opening to Brooke Ligertwood’s poetic craftsmanship, technical skill abounds.

2. Authentic Worship Atmosphere

The live recording captures genuine worship. You feel the collective surrender of thousands. For those who connect with charismatic worship styles, this delivers powerfully.

3. Many Biblically Sound Themes

Individual tracks express orthodox truths. Christ’s resurrection, God’s holiness, His provision through trials, the call to unity—these biblical themes appear throughout. The Psalm 23-based “Even Though I Walk” stands on solid scriptural ground.

4. Emotional Connection

If Bethel’s style resonates with you, this album will speak deeply. The spontaneous moments feel raw and real. For those who’ve experienced Bethel’s ministry positively, this will encourage.

5. Church-Ready Anthems

Jesus Freak Hideout predicts tracks like “If The Lord” are “bound to be sung in many churches.” If your congregation already uses Bethel music, this provides new material.

❌ Reasons to Avoid

1. Financial Support of Problematic Theology

Purchasing or streaming this album directs resources toward Bethel Church, which teaches NAR theology. Modern Reformation rightly asks whether churches should financially support ministries promoting doctrinal error.

2. Gateway Effect

Using Bethel music can lead people—especially young believers—to explore Bethel Church. There they’ll encounter teachings about modern apostles, new revelation, dominionism, and problematic healing theology. Music creates curiosity about its source.

3. Normalizing False Teachers

When we treat Bethel as just another worship brand, we minimize serious theological concerns. The pastor quoted earlier notes NAR theology isn’t merely a “secondary theological issue” but “twist[s] the Scriptures” with “dangerously wrong theology.”

4. Accountability to Scripture

Modern Reformation warns that “The lyrics and worship services from NAR-aligned ministries match their theology; we in Reformation traditions must be careful to ensure these practices don’t reshape our theology into something else.”

5. Better Alternatives Exist

Numerous orthodox artists produce equally excellent worship music without the theological baggage. Supporting them strengthens ministries built on sound doctrine.

6. Pastoral Responsibility

Church leaders bear responsibility for what they teach their flock. Hebrews 13:17 says they “are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account.” Exposing congregations to NAR-adjacent content creates accountability questions.

💭 Final Thoughts

Here’s the heartbreak. This album sounds gorgeous. The musicians pour their hearts out. The production sparkles. Many individual moments express genuine, biblical truth about God’s character and Christ’s work.

But we don’t live in a vacuum. Music doesn’t exist separate from theology. These artists operate within a movement that distorts historic Christianity in fundamental ways. Their parent church teaches that modern apostles govern God’s people, that new revelation continues, that Christians must dominate society before Christ returns.

Can we separate song from singer? Artist from institution? Music from theology?

Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 8 about food sacrificed to idols. The food itself was fine. But context mattered. Eating it could wound weaker believers or appear to endorse idolatry. Paul concluded, “If food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat.”

The same principle applies here. Individual songs may be doctrinally sound. But using them supports a ministry teaching error. It potentially leads others into theological danger. It communicates tacit approval.

The album title We Must Respond is ironic. Indeed we must respond—but not just with worship. We must respond to false teaching with discernment. We must respond to our brothers and sisters in Christ by protecting them from error. We must respond to God’s Word by upholding its authority and sufficiency.

For individual listeners already grounded in orthodox theology, listening to this album poses less danger. You likely won’t be swayed toward NAR theology. But can you honestly recommend it to new believers? Youth groups? Those unfamiliar with these issues?

Proverbs 4:23 commands: “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” Colossians 2:8 warns: “See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit.”

The music is beautiful. The theology is broken. That’s the painful truth we must acknowledge.

If you choose to listen, do so with open eyes. Understand what you’re supporting. Research Bethel’s teachings. Don’t let musical excellence blind you to doctrinal danger. And please, if you lead others spiritually, consider whether exposing them to this content demonstrates faithful shepherding.

The church deserves worship music that’s both excellent and orthodox. We don’t have to choose between beauty and truth. They should walk together. Sadly, in this case, they diverge.

May we respond to God with both our hearts and our minds, loving Him with passion and protecting His truth.

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Soli Deo Gloria 🙏
Written by A.I.
Proofread by Crossmap editors.