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Former American Idol stars Clay Aiken, George Huff, Mandisa Hundley all have been open about their faith, particularly now that they've moved on from Idol. For that matter, Carrie Underwood's star-making single after winning the competition was the prayerful, award-winning single "Jesus Take the Wheel."

The faith brigade continues this season as well. At least half of the 12 finalists seem to be Christians—some professing their faith clearly, others more subtly.

Jordin Sparks has garnered the most attention in CCM circles. The daughter of former NFL player Phillippi Sparks, she regularly performs at her home church, was a finalist for the Gospel Music Association's Seminar in the Rockies, and even opened on tour for Michael W. Smith, who gives his endorsement.

Melinda Doolittle is a graduate of Nashville's Belmont University, a Christian school, and has sung backup for the likes of CeCe Winans, Denver & The Mile High Orchestra, and Aaron Neville. She's not only impressed everyone with her vocal prowess, but also her humble attitude—friends describe her as a "really strong" Christian woman and a prayer warrior.

Chris Sligh, the son of missionary parents, has attended three different Christian colleges in the last ten years. Lately he's served as a worship leader at his home church while fronting his own band, Half Past Forever. On Idol, he's already performed songs by Mute Math and dc Talk.

They're not alone. Phil Stacey has attended two Christian universities and is a minister of music at his home church in Jacksonville, Florida. LaKisha Jones has the support of her friends and family from her home church in Michigan, who say that "her faith is important to her." Her new friend Stephanie Edwards apparently shares similar values, praying to God for his will before her performances.

I don't entertain any ideas that American Idol is a Christian show, any more than a company that employs Christians is necessarily a Christian company. Some would argue that it does no good if Idol contestants can't voice their faith during the broadcast (previous contestants have been asked to downplay their faith on air). But is it still possible that the show can be used according to God's purposes?

When you get down to it, both types of shows—Idol and the Christian alternatives—can glorify God. Either one is capable of being used by the Lord.

A show like Gifted may glorify God because it's more intentional in its display of praise, even if it's ultimately a talent contest with a niche audience. It may not been seen by the millions who watch Idol, but I don't think the Christian alternatives are necessarily about reaching the masses. They're primarily shows by Christians, about Christians, and for Christians—and there's value in "preaching to the choir."

It could be that the point is to work on a smaller level—filling a need rather than becoming a phenomenon. Such programs are not too unlike the local church when they put on a talent show or fellowship event.

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