The Music and Ministry of Petra
Petra has been one of the biggest musical influences on me ever. They were the first Christian Rock band that I ever had the privilege of listening to. They are still my favorite. Petra has done so much musically, and they are set apart from most other bands because of the exceptionally Biblical content in their songs. To end this letter, I would just like to briefly list some of my favorite Petra songs and the themes that they encompass.
Whole World (from Back to the Street-1985) - This song is about God's control and sovereignty in the world regardless of how things look from our perspective as humans.
Right Place (from No Doubt-1995) - Believers must trust in God in all circumstances especially when they seem hopeless, because He is faithful and will rightly lead you through all things.
Creed (from Beyond Belief-1990) - Statement of Christian faith, taken from the Apostles Creed.
For Annie (from Never Say Die-1981) - This is a song about suicide and the need to show genuine concern for those who are reaching out for love, and about the urgency of sharing the Gospel before it becomes too late.
Rose Colored Stain Glass Windows (from More Power To Ya-1982) - Many times people who are lost feel unwelcome in the Church. Christians should not attempt to keep people out because they may be different or have problems that we do not want to deal with, instead we should go to the world and draw people in so that Christ through the Holy Spirit can regenerate them and make them into new creatures just as He has done in us who already know Christ.
Perfect World (from Jekyll and Hyde-2003) - About the care and redemptive work God is performing on all creation. God loves it all.
It Is Finished (from Beat The System-1984) - This is about the atoning work of Christ on the Cross and has a very powerful Message.
He Came, He Saw, He Conquered (from This Means War-1988) - This is another song about the victory that has come as a result of the death of Christ.
Fools Gold (from Back to the Street-1985) - About not caring what the world thinks of us proclaiming the truth of God. We are not to be ashamed of the Gospel, because as the song says, "I'd rather be a fool in the eyes of man, than a fool in the eyes of God."
This list could go on for quite some time, but I will stop here with the songs. For those of you who are fans of worship music, you should check out the albums, Petra Praise 2: We Need Jesus, and Revival. If you like the heavier stuff pick up Jekyll and Hyde, On Fire, and Beyond Belief. For the mellow fans, listen to Double Take, God Fixation, and No Doubt. And for some good old rock and roll, hear More Power to Ya, Beat The System, Petra, Wake-Up Call, and Petra Praise. I hope there music will bless you, encourage you, help you think more deeply about the faith, and draw you closer to the Lord as it has me.