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Win This War--Various Artists February 4, 2008 By Ann Ahrens The compilation CD “Win
This War,” with songs by artists such as Matthew
West, Michael O'Brien, Mike Weaver, and others, is a unique collection of 12
songs that deal with sin, repentance, cleansing, and worship. The CD was
released to coincide with the publication of Fred Stoeker's book “Tactics,”
which explains why “sexual sin is so addictive and why guys battling in the
trenches to stay pure still struggle.” Stoeker's focus is directed, as seen in his selection of songs
and artists represented on the album. He states that he desires to go beyond
abstinence by developing “an enthusiasm for purity.” Addressing the needs of a
generation that is struggling to live with purity, or even see that as possible,
Stoeker states, “The cost of sexual sin is enormous, but young people don't
always recognize the danger. What seems like freedom soon becomes a prison of
destructive desires and behaviors.” Emotions are Another Level The idea of a CD with a targeted message and audience is one
that I, personally, would like to see more often. I have noticed that many
Christian artists are moving toward songs that contain a positive message, but
are devoid of any direct reference to God, Christ, or other related topics,
which would undoubtedly link them to the Christian message. A project like this
is ideal for songs of this type, as it clearly states its purpose through the
title, liner notes, or association with a particular group or project. So where does the idea of presenting this message in a musical
format come in? Stoeker states, “There is simply no way to steward this message
well unless I also set this message to music. I can reach another level of a
guy's soul with the music. The books reach his logic and intellect, but the
music can reach the other half of his brain with that same message of purity.”
In other words, reach the emotions and you reach the heart and thus, transform
the mind more completely. The Music, The Message As far as style, the CD is mostly in the rock, guitar-driven
style along with some songs of worship and, finally, a few contemplative songs
in the slow, contemporary style. Being a big fan of Michael O'Brien, I was
excited to see his name on two songs. The other artists, Chuck Dennie (former
lead singer for By the Tree), Mike Weaver of Big Daddy Weave, Downhere, Matthew
West, By The Tree, Lee Spoken, and Aaron Blanton of By The Tree, were, until
now, unknown to me. If you are a fan of any of these, you should consider this
CD. Carrying a powerful message, each song is specifically focused
on sin, cleansing, repentance, or worship. Especially helpful are the CD liner
notes, which contain comments on each song by Stoeker--a great reason to
purchase the CD as opposed to downloading. I was forced to pause and
contemplate his comments on several songs. Believe me, Stoeker is serious in
his mission. Standout songs include:
Stoeker comments: “When it comes to God's mercy,
we must never, ever separate “forgiveness” from “restoration.” God didn't stop
short with mere forgiveness. He sent Jesus so that we could be restored
completely. 'Your sins are forgiven,' then, 'Go and sin no more.'”
“God of all Mercy is followed by three more
beautiful prayer songs, “Let Your Healing Come,” “Destiny,” and “Love of
Christ.” There are many standouts on this CD, and a style to please
all; this would make an effective ministry tool for youth groups. I agree with
Stoeker that using music as a tool to promote purity to young men (and women!)
who would never read a book is important. Hopefully this is the first of many
such projects. Be sure to visit the
website to
listen to samples of all the songs and read more on Stoeker's vision for
purity. © 2008, Ann Ahrens ---------- Ann Ahrens teaches at Gateway College of Evangelism and Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis where she pounds the ivories for a living. In addition to teaching she also enjoys history, travel, Cardinals baseball, her cat Mama and spoiling the cutest niece in the world, Miss Alli Jo. |
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