An Interview with Bob Hartman

By Scott Shiffer

 

Normally this section is devoted to teaching Christians how to think Christianly about a particular aspect of life and how it relates to art.  But this month as a special treat, it will be the transcript of an interview that recently took place with Bob Hartman, the founder and guitar player for the first Christian Rock Band--Petra.  I hope you are blessed as you read this, and that you are able to see how an artist himself thinks about art, culture, and faith.

 

(My questions occur first, and then Bob's answers appear in Bold)

 

1. Petra has been a pillar of the Christian rock community for 33 years now. How would you describe the influence that Petra has had on the industry, and what are some of your favorite memories with the band?

 

I would prefer to let others describe what influence we have had on the industry. We have never made it our goal to influence the industry. We always seemed to make the best decisions when we approached things from the perspective of "What would God have us do" rather than "What is the industry doing".

 

I think the recording of More Power To Ya is a special memory because of the unique setting of the studio in the desert. But many of my favorite memories of the band occurred it the last three years after coming back on the road. India stands out as well as our European tours. And of course the entire Farewell tour!

 

2. Many bands that label themselves as "Christian" sing about issues that are important or moral, but do not center their lyrics around the Scriptures. For as long as Petra has been around you have always focused your message on the Word of God; often times listing out the references alongside the lyrics. How do you view the role of Scripture in the songs that you write, and why have you always written songs that are so focused on Biblical doctrines and narrative? Do you think that music is something that should teach us about faith, theology, and life? If so, in what ways?

 

I wrote songs the way I did because of my background in Theology. My lyrics were a result of my need to be a teacher through song. There was not a big master plan here, but rather what naturally flowed from my background. I also believe that there is Life in the Word of God. It will "...not return void". I know God has taken His Word in our songs and used it to touch many lives.

 

3. Petra has changed over the years in many ways, both musically and in regards to its members. What are some of the particular songs or albums that you have most enjoyed recording? Is there any one style that you would consider a favorite?

 

More Power To Ya, as I mentioned. But Jekyll& Hyde stands out as well because of the freedom I was given to work on guitars on my own. I had lots of fun experimenting. Favorite style, well I like to rock! The style of Jekyll & Hyde stands out but maybe just because it is recent.

 

4. My Newsletter is geared towards helping people evaluate art in the framework of a Biblical Worldview. How do you view the role of Christianity in art? What impact do you believe Christians have had and should have on Western Culture through art?

 

I believe God owns art. I have always thought that the satisfying feeling of writing a song was closely akin to God creating the world and saying "It is good". God is the creator and we are made in His image. I believe Christians should express ourselves artistically as much as we can and if we are faithful to who we are in Christ, our art will reflect our Christian world view. I believe Western culture needs our view to survive.

 

5. Do you see "popular" art in our culture as being separate from Christian art, or do you believe that Christians should actively engage the culture through art? If the latter, how do you believe that Christians should go about this process?

 

I think Western culture can sense the difference between honest art and propaganda. In my thinking, it is just as dishonest to withhold the Truth from our art as it is to use art merely as a tool for propaganda. The Gospel is engaging and provocative. If we are honestly reflecting our worldview, it will engage and provoke.

 

6. Would you describe some of the thoughts and feelings that you have concerning the Petra Farewell Tour?

 

I have both sadness and joy. Sadness, because I will miss so many things, but joy in having had the privilege to represent my faith in such a wonderful way for so many years.

 

7. Do you have any plans for the future now that Petra is officially disbanding? Any solo projects, instrumental albums, or producing on the horizon?

 

I'm not sure what I want to do yet. I have some offers to produce that I am considering but I want to take some time to get my bearings before plotting any course for the future.

 

8. Would you be willing to share your testimony with us, letting us know how God used events and circumstances in your life to draw you to salvation? What has God done in your life since you became a believer and how has He used you both in Petra and apart from the band.

 

I think the Kent State shootings had a deep effect on me. I was attending Kent at the time and I remember it caused me to start seeking answers. But God providentially brought an old friend back into my life to share the Gospel. It was a very private and real experience that I had with God when I was 20 years old. After finishing college, God called me to go to Bible school. That was a major turning point in my Christian life that led to the formation of Petra. Being asked to teach theology at that school was another. Teaching theology allowed me to learn theology, and that foundation became the well from which all of my songs were written. God was preparing me for what lay ahead.