_0.jpg)
Michael Cochren, lead singer of Cochren & Co., talks about the need for accountability in the Christian music industry.
"Deeply disturbing things have come into the light and some are questioning the integrity of our entire corner of the world," says Cochren on Instagram. "I do believe that these things being exposed serves as clear evidence that God is not done with Christian music. He prunes the trees that belong to him."
Cochren is referring to the recent allegations against Michael Tait, former frontman of Newsboys for 15 years.
"In His grace, He has brought what was hidden into the light so that victims may receive healing, and abusers may receive their consequences and repent."
Another Christian artist spoke up about this whole situation, the frontman from Tenth Avenue North, Mike Donehey.
"Many of you know I don't live in Nashville," says Cochren. "I live in a small town in Indiana. I serve at my local church. I am known by my church family, my small group, my neighbours, at the gas station - not because I'm Cochren & Co - but because I'm Michael, or Mrs. Cochren's husband."
Cochren and his group have been in the music scene for just over a decade, and therefore speak from experience.
"Sure, we can be 'famous' and known by thousands of people for what we do, but are we known for who we are? Are there people in your life that have an inside view into your heart, and can speak truth to you, and hold you accountable to the standard and faith you profess to live by?"
Can the words 'Christian' and 'Celebrity' coincide?
Cochren says that within the past few years, many well-known pastors and now Christian artists have had scandals brought to light. He thinks the problem is actually a bigger underlying problem in the Christian world.
"We weren't meant for 'celebrity.' We weren't meant to be in positions of authority and influence without systems of accountability and Biblical community. We all need people in our lives that we give permission to look behind the curtain of our souls and say 'something's not right here.' That's not the same thing as having band mates or tour personnel who are hired by you."
"We weren't meant to be loved and not known."
Cochren says that there's a barrier when it comes to employees and bosses in terms of speaking openly and honestly.
"We need non-transactional relationships with godly people who have nothing to gain from us. Jesus tells us to remain in the vine. When we cut ourselves off from Him and His body, we are weakened, vulnerable, and susciptible to any attack from without or within."
Cochren explains that the music industry and the music that shares the gospel can be two different things, unfortunately.
"I love Christian music. I love the people who write it, sing it, and listen to it. Christian music changed my life. I did all this for free before I ever made a living, and I'll do it again for free when the time comes."
Cochren encourages other artists in the end of his post, with a call to action.
"For anyone reading this who has made themselves an island, please don't continue living that way. There's too much at stake and the world is watching."