Malachi: A Decade as God's Messenger

Abstract

John Bonow chronicles the history of Malachi, the first official Christian rock band in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS), formed in 1983 at Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Pewaukee, Wisconsin. Named after the Hebrew word for “messenger,” Malachi aimed to share the gospel with youth through contemporary Christian music (CCM). The essay details the band’s mission, musical evolution, congregational support, and outreach efforts, including concerts, albums, and counseling partnerships. Bonow also explores the theological debates surrounding CCM within WELS, highlighting both criticism and defense of Malachi’s work. The band’s commitment to doctrinal purity and youth ministry earned it recognition and controversy, culminating in a synodical resolution affirming Christian freedom in musical expression. After a decade of ministry, Malachi faced challenges in membership but left a lasting legacy of faithful service and gospel proclamation through music. Abstract generated with the assistance of Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).