“As surely as I live, says the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness.” (Ezekiel 33:11 NLT)
Alice Cooper is known as the “Godfather of Shock Rock.” He is known for his outlandish costumes, makeup, and theatrical performances. His stage shows feature guillotines, fake blood, snakes, and electric chairs. He helped shape the sound and look of heavy metal. Over his long career, he has sold more than 50 million records. Like many musicians from the 70’s, Alice Cooper also liked to have a ‘good time’ with his friends. This involved alcohol, cocaine, women, and materialism. After a few decades of the proverbial rock-n-roll lifestyle, he came to the following realization:
“When you get out there you realize that you’ve had every car, you’ve had every house and all that, you realize that that’s not the answer, that there’s a big big nothing out there at the end of that.” (Alice Cooper)
In the late 1980’s, Alice Cooper shocked his fans when he committed his life to Christ. He had tried worshiping everything else and found it empty. For years, he justified his behavior by telling himself that he did more good than bad. But eventually, he saw through his own delusions. His religious awakening was a turning point. He quit drinking and doing drugs. He thought about quitting his career but decided he could help others by remaining in the industry. He influenced other heavy metal artists like Dave Mustaine to also change their life and turn to Christ.
The Lord does not take any pleasure in the destruction of depraved people. He wants everyone to turn from their wicked ways and turn to Him. No one is irredeemable. Jesus sacrificed Himself for all of humanity. Repentance is the first step. Once we turn from evil, we are on the path of recovery that leads to restoration. As we walk with Jesus, we may have the privilege of guiding others to reevaluate their lives. What an honor to be an influencer for Christ!
Lord, forgive us our sins. Help all of us to turn away from depravity and return to You. May our life choices positively influence others to grow closer to You.
The big nothing. A good life to avoid.