Although the Bible has been contested and open to many interpretations, there should be no dissention on the basics of the gospel. If we allow ourselves to do whatever we want "in the name of Jesus," we can also unknowingly promote a false gospel through movement. Just because someone decides to call something "gospel" or "holy" does not make it so. Labeling something "praise dance" also does not validate it as such.
If we are left wondering if we heard "God" or "Jesus" or anything remotely connected to the Scriptures after a dance piece, then we have to wonder what type of dance it was. Many styles of dance can be used to glorify God. When approaching "radical" movement styles, we must be sure that the Lord is leading us, and not a rebellious attitude. What God ordains, He maintains. Inspirational songs may be encouraging, but if the words of the song are not supported by the Bible, it does not qualify as dance ministry. Our message must continue to be clear and without compromise.
Beyond the overt message we are trying to convey, we must also be careful to watch for any subliminal messages that we may send. Some things may not be labeled "sin," but are nevertheless very distracting and self-centered (which leads to sin). If our garments reveal more of us than they should, people may pay attention to what we are wearing and miss the message. Artistic hairstyles may be trendy, but if we get more inquiries about our tresses than the ministry, we may want to reconsider self-expression during ministry times. We all do not have to fit into the same mold and embody the dance ministry stereotype. As long as all that we do can be supported Biblically and is Spirit-led, we are free to move in Him.
1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (NKJV)
Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.
2 Corinthians 11:3-4 (NKJV)
But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!
Galatians 1:6-7 (NKJV)
I marvel that you are turning away so soon from Him who called you in the grace of Christ, to a different gospel, which is not another; but there are some who trouble you and want to pervert the gospel of Christ.
James 3:16 (NKJV)
For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.
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