FAQ

Short answers to the questions churches and artists ask first.

Q: What makes a song a Scripture Song?

A: A song whose lyrics are drawn word-for-word from an approved Bible translation, without alteration to meaning.

Q: Does certification mean SSCA theologically endorses the song?

A: No. Certification verifies textual accuracy to Scripture. It does not endorse doctrine, denomination, theology, popularity, or musical quality.

Q: Can a worship song that only references Scripture be certified?

A: Not for Scripture Song certification. The published standard requires word-for-word accuracy against an approved translation. A song that only alludes to Scripture does not meet that bar.

Q: How long does review take?

A: Reviewers compare every certification lyric line to the cited NASB 2020 verses before they record a decision. SSCA has not published a guaranteed turnaround time.

Q: What if I disagree with a certification decision?

A: An artist may open one formal appeal within 14 days of a rejection. A second, independent reviewer handles the appeal. The original rejector cannot decide it.

Q: Does SSCA publish the NASB 2020 text?

A: NASB 2020 is copyrighted by The Lockman Foundation. SSCA names it as the approved source text. Public pages do not reproduce NASB verses, and this site does not claim a published Lockman license grant. Read the legal notice for the current status.