On February 4, Steve Green held a concert at the Howard Performing Arts Center. Steve Green has been in the Christian music industry for over 30 years. Throughout these years, he has touched the hearts of people around the world. For my generation, he is most famous for putting tunes to memory verses. Many times throughout my childhood, in my home and school, I listened to Steve Green’s music. I especially remember listening to “When I Am Afraid I Will Trust in You,” which is from the scripture of Psalm 56:3-6.
At the concert, the first half was all songs he had handpicked. He even sang a few memory verse songs with the Ruth Murdoch Elementary and Village Church School kids. The concert's second half was the crowd picking songs for him to perform. Many people were able to make a request for one of his many songs, which he would then sing from memory. They were second nature to him. After the concert, he greeted everyone in the lobby with a warm smile and a listening heart. I had the wonderful opportunity to sit with him for a short interview.
The Steve Green Interview:
LD (me): There are many different types of ministry. So, what drew you to do music ministry?
SG (Steve Green): Right! So, I grew up in Argentina. My parents were missionaries. I had no idea that music was even a possibility until I came back to the States for college. And it was in college that I was singing in a choir. The music professor, the music department chairman, just sort of heard me, took me under his wing, and taught me voice lessons. And I had no vision of music, but he did for me. And that’s what started me was a professor that took the time to just draw it out of me.
LD: I love that! I have heard you spent some of your life in Argentina because your parents were missionaries. How do you think this shaped your life and career?
SG: My parents really knew the Lord, loved the Lord, and so their lives were marked with a genuine faith. And right after that, it was important that I grew up in another country, because I became what they call a third culture kid. And it gave me this sense of knowing that the body of Christ is not American. And it was really important for me to have a sensitivity to the nations.
LD: That’s wonderful! So, I am a big fan of “Prayer Bear” and grew up watching it on DVD. You dealt with a lot of different mediums such as music, film, and concerts. Is there any particular work that you’re most proud of?
SG: I would say the "Hide Them In Your Heart" projects probably have lasted the longest. You know, probably now the 3rd generation are using those songs. Because it’s Scripture, it lasts. I am really thankful. I wouldn’t say proud because it wasn’t my idea, but I was invited to be part of it, and I’m really thankful for that.
LD: Wow! That’s wonderful! Did you enjoy your time here at Andrews?
SG: Of course! I was surprised at the number of people who came. Good crowd. And then everyone has been so kind to us. So, yeah, it was a real blessing to be here.
LD: What advice do you have for the Andrews University students?
SG: Mmmm… well, you’re growing up and going out into a very difficult world. Where the claims of Christ are going to be increasingly not just unpopular but contentious, and so, I would say two things. Hold fast to God’s word and do not deviate from that. But then I would also say we live in an age where the gospel of Jesus is being deconstructed. And the deity of Jesus. The substitutionary death of Jesus on the cross. Things that are just vital, critical elements of our faith. So I would say, hold to Christ and nothing else! Don’t add something to Jesus. He is sufficient in all that he’s done for us. And look to him, trust in him, hold to him, so he is the focus of our lives.
I must say I was moved by how calming Steve Green’s speaking voice is. He carried himself with such grace and kindness that all my nerves just disappeared. Steve Green has written and sung some incredible songs, all about the love God has for us. I would highly recommend listening to his music if you haven’t already!
The Student Movement is the official student newspaper of Andrews University. Opinions expressed in the Student Movement are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors, Andrews University or the Seventh-day Adventist church.