A Conversation: LGBT

The following conversation was given consent to share online. The name of the original person
asking these questions was changed to protect their identity (the gender-neutral "Alex" name is being used).

So the last few weeks on my social media, more specifically Instagram, I've been posting stories in or surrounding the LGBT community. Everything was pretty chill throughout those weeks until recently I had a conversation with a person who felt I was attacking the group. They had a lot of questions and I did my best to answer them all. In the end, I do believe everything was done respectfully. I removed any pronouns that would reveal "Alex's" Identity and outside of censorship none of this conversation has been edited or altered. The final conversation below was approved by both parties.
(*) means Censorship of curse words/vulgar languages and (-) means a term of endearment or pronoun.

-----------------

Alex: Yo, can we talk? you got time?

Me: Yeah, I'm just laying down, wassup?

Alex: You've been posting a lot of (****) about gay people and lgbt and I wanna kno why 😠 

Me: Hey ----. I'm not sure what you mean by that. If you think I'm targeting you I'm not.

Alex: No you're targeting everyone and that's (****)ed up.

Me: Alex, I think you're really misinterpreting my intentions.

Alex: Ok 4 example why did you post about the preacher being arrested for a hate crime?

Me: 1st, it wasn't a hate crime. 2nd I posted it because it broke my heart that the brother couldn't share the love of God because it was considered hate speech but if you look at the video it was the LGBT people that were aggressive towards despite his calm demeanor. I posted it because some people want that law here in America and if that happens a lot of believers are in trouble.

Alex: 🙄 

Alex: No one is gonna throw yall in jail for talking about jesus

Me: You sure about that? There's already plenty of people out here in America giving us a bad name so I'm sure there'd be people dying to see us behind bars. You know believers are getting murdered in other countries and continents right?

Alex: They kill gay people to

Me: It's tragic but you really want to compare the 2? Murder is murder, yes but statistically speaking more believers die for excepting Christ than people of the LGBT. We've talked about martyrs before
so you already know.

Alex: They killed 50 People in the PULSE shooting. Ya'll don't get that here!

Me: You really just said that? Really ----?

Alex: Because it's (****)ing true. Ya'll never got shot up in the states just for being in a club or being yourself.

Me: Sutherland Spring Church Shooting (26 dead), Charleston Church Shooting (9 dead) to name a few. Those people were just worshiping God or having a Bible Study.

Alex: We still got more tho

Me: 🤦‍♂️

Me: You missed the point entirely.

(A few minutes passed)

Alex: ok you right, my fault I just got heated. You're a smart guy so can I ask you a few questions? Like legit no bull(****) questions. I wanna know your point of view.

Me: Gimme a few?

Alex: Ok

(a few minutes pass)

Me: Alright, go ahead.

Alex: Do you hate gay people?

Me: I don't hate gays, bi's, trans or anyone else in that community.

Alex: I know you deep in God and all that so do you think people from LGBTQI are going to hell?

Me: I can't answer that for ANY PERSON. I don't know anyone's walk with God and it's not my place to know where they're going to spend eternity. All I do know is unrepented sin definitely puts us ALL at risk.

Alex: So being gay is a sin?

Me: The bible is very clear on that

Alex: Ya'll say it's an abomination but that was the old testament. Ya'll ain't' supposed to follow that no more.

Me: A lot of people believe that and those people are dead wrong. Jesus was very clear on the older law that it should be taken within the proper understanding and not just face value but if that's what you're going based on there are New Testament verses that touch on it too.

Alex: I notice you ain't directly answer the question.

Me: I did

Alex: You said the scripture but I wanna know what you think?

Me: In accordance with scripture and since I am a believer, yes, I believe it's a sin. Not just homosexuality but bisexuality and anything else outside of God's intended design.

Alex: But what if everyone was gay? What if the world started with gay people?

Me: Than there'd only be 2 people, they die of old age and that's it.

Alex: LM(*)O! Ayo that was actually funny. That was dumb I shouldve asked that different.

Me: You're fine lol.

(a few minutes pass)

Alex: You posted about the rainbow like a week or 2 ago, you said something about the real meaning or something like that. What you mean?

Me: In the account of Noah when the worldwide flood took place God used the rainbow as a symbol of a promise to never flood the world again. It was about a promise way before it was about pride.

Alex: Its sounds like it bothers you tho

Me: Honestly? It does. I low key get upset whenever I see the rainbow used for something it was never intended to be used for. I take it personally as they stole a symbol of God for there own purposes.

Alex: It's not even that deep tho

Me: To be fair Alex, you don't consider yourself a Christian so I don't expect you to understand.

Alex: wait a minute. I believe in God tho. That's actually a good question to, do you think you can be gay, bi, or whatever else and still be a Christian?  Cuz I know people like that.

Me: That's honestly a little harder to answer. Not because there isn't one but because of the emotional triggering it can cause. In the end, I'm not trying to hurt nobody or judge peoples walk with God. However, by definition, to be a Christian you have to be a follower of Christ. To be a follower of Christ you must then have to adhere to the mandates Jesus gave us as believers. We all sin, be it the lust of the flesh, greed, envy, etc and unrepentance is ultimately what causes the separation of God in our lives. So if we live unrepented than I don't think we can genuinely call ourselves believers. That's where people come and modify the Bible and create there own religions to accommodate how they feel. Either we're believers with a biblical world view or simply believers by a claim. Sorry for the long answer

Alex: Nah, you good. That's actually an answer I like cuz you weren't disrespectful about it.

Alex: Hold on I'm trying to think of a good question...

Me: Ok

(a few minutes pass)

Alex: Would you go to a gay wedding?

Me: That is a difficult question for me. Because in one hand I want to support my friend or family but at the same time I know being in attendance shows I also support their decision which goes against my beliefs and what I believe to be against Gods design. Not showing up can cause a rift in our relationship but then I have to consider my relationship with God as well. In the end, I have to answer to him and they won't be able to defend me as they will have to answer to God too. My answer, most likely I wouldn't and I honestly hope I'm never put in that predicament.

Alex: But love is love tho. They just following they heart.

Me: The scriptures are clear that the heart is deceitful above all things. You honestly don't have to be a believer to know that. People often say think with your head not your heart because emotions are very tricky. Just because someone or something makes you feel good inside doesn't mean that they're/it's good for you. Pizza is delicious but eating it every day 3 times a day will most likely kill you. Indulging in the desires of our heart may feel good for an uncounted amount of time but it will eventually eat away at you. Some people are just too entranced to notice.

Alex: I mean, I agree with some of that. The hearts desire (***) makes sense tho. You remember what
happened with my cousin.

Me: I know, and that's honestly a great example.

(We carried a bit into the story of Alex's cousin which didn't add to much to this conversation and
we both agreed it didn't need to be in here)

Alex: LM(*)O, anyway, I gotta go to bed soon but I just have a few more. Would you date someone from LGBT?

Me: Um...I'm straight. I don't think I can date anyone in there even if I wanted to.

Alex: Not true there's bisexuals and transexuals.

Me: No disrespect to them but I'd never date a transperson. Bisexuals, I don't think I could because it bothers me knowing if I fall in love with her and she doesn't feel the same I could lose her to a woman and I can't compete with a woman.

Alex: LM(**)O! I'm dead. B4 I keep going I just wanna say sorry for how I aggressive I got in the beginning. I was being a (****)head.

Me: It's cool. You're not the first and you won't be the last I'm sure.

Alex: You believe LGBTQ should fight in war?

Me: Your sexuality has nothing to do with your ability to fight for our country, being a law enforcement officer, etc. I don't care if your gay, bi, trans or identify as an Australian bullfrog if you saved someone's life, God bless and I salute.

Alex: WT(*)? Bullfrog 🤣
Alex: What about that. people identifying as different people?? Like genders and stuff?

Me: There are only 2 genders. Always have been, always will be. I heard one woman talk about in the "spectrum" of gender there can literally be an infinite amount of genders which to me sounds like imagination on overkill. So if I wake up one day and say "you know, today I feel like a Black, Southern Woman" I suddenly am? Because I feel like it? There's a guy who left his wife and kids to be a transgender identifying as a 6-year-old girl and it's ok because that's how he felt. We got men who think they're women because it's how they feel and then they compete in athletics where they clearly dominate because of genetics like that Texas transgender who won the high school girls wrestling title. I personally in such a weird place now that if you feel it...it's who you are and that always isn't true.

Alex: Why don't you use the pronouns? Thats real rude willy

Me: In conversation, out of politeness and respect, yes, I will use their preferred pronouns. However in debates or conversations like this where I'm asked my points of view and opinions I use what is biologically correct.

Alex: Oh ok. Does God make people gay?

Me: I don't believe so. There are so many contributing factors to a persons mindset on their sexuality but I definitely don't think God is one of them. Upbringing, Molestation, Broken Heartedness, etc. Also stereotypes like boys like blue and girls like pink create this impression that "Oh, but I like pink...so maybe I'm supposed to be a girl" or a little girl saying "I like getting dirty in the mud, playing with toy trucks instead of dolls...maybe I'm a boy." We never tell these kids that you can enjoy these things and still be the gender/sex you were born as. They're straight men with feminine qualities and there are straight women who are just tomboys.

Alex: I don't know if I can agree with that. I mean yeah I was told by my aunty that (-) are not supposed to like (-) because that means your a (-). I don't know I feel like I'd be denying who I am.

Me: See there? You're talking about feelings. Like I said feelings don't always mean something. Like I said what can't you like (-) and still be (-)? If I notice a man is good looking, I can acknowledge him like "Yo my man you looking good" and it doesn't have to mean anything romantic or sexual. We can experience that differently and still be in line with God's design.

Alex: Idk bro. I understand what you saying like forreal you got me low key thinking

Me: Alex, I got love for you regardless but if you tell me to tell you what I think about something I will, to the best of my ability, to tell what I believe the truth is.

Alex: What if it's not true for me?

Me: Personal truth is a dangerous thing Alex, because if we all have personal truths what if someone's truth says your truth is a lie?

Alex: I wouldn't care, it ain't true

Me: But that's their truth

Alex: They truth is wrong

Me: Is that statement true?

Alex WT(*)?

Me: Is what you're saying true?

Alex: Yeah

Me: Not it's not, my truth says it isn't
Alex:  😂
Alex: I see what you doing. I get it.

Me: lol. There is no your truth or my truth. Just THE truth. The beautiful part is we have the freedom to accept it or not.

Alex: Right, that's real.

Me: One of my favorite theologians once said this, and I'm paraphrasing "We have the freedom of choice but we do not have the freedom of outcome."

Alex: That Ravi guy you watch a lot right?

Me: Yeah 😆

Alex: Alright bro, I gotta go to work soon so I'll talk to you later.

Alex: My bad again for earlier

Me: You good (-), God bless Alex. Have a good night

Alex: 🤟

Faith & Fashion II: Are Piercings Bad?

And I put a ring on your nose and earrings in your ears

and a beautiful crown on your head.

Ezekiel 16:12

So, I've been thinking about getting a nose ring. Similar to the one you see in the image above. This got several questions and eyebrows raised. Oddly enough more guys were opposed to it and the girls were all for it (most anyway). This brings up a question though. Is it ok for Christians to get piercings. Now it's more than likely that if you're a woman reading this, you wear earrings and it's never been a problem for you. Heck, even a lot of Christian men wear earrings with little to no problem. However, you will run into many who condemn body piercings all together even the though bible doesn't. Let me explain because I'm sure many are going to point to Leviticus 19:28 or Deuteronomy 14:1. They say you shall not CUT yourself. As a matter fact in the CJB version of the Bible (Complete Jewish Bible) it reads "Don't cut gashes in your flesh when someone dies..." Now, I like to think gashes are a little different than a piercing. Don't you?

Christian Hip Hop Producer and 1/3 of Beautiful Eulogy
Courtland Urbano wears gauges and a lip ring. 

While so many preachers enjoy using these verses to convince people the piercings are wrong, I often point out they're using it out of context. Those verses are regarding honoring the dead or worshiping the dead. Again, we're talking about gashes and body mutilation, not a 1/8 inch hole in your ear or nose. Also think about this. If God hated the idea of piercings, earrings, etc why would he even bother using them as a metaphor for his love for Jerusalem?The written verse above this blog in Ezekiel shows exactly that. It went from God "passing by" and seeing this newborn in a pool of blood, kicking around. He declared over it "live!" and this newborn grew like a "plant in the field." As we read further we see this "newborn" is a female and grows into a beautiful women in which the Father washed her, gave her beautiful garments to wear and adorns her with jewelry which consisted of bracelets, necklaces, earrings, a nose ring and a crown. Why bother mentioning it? God could've easily said everything else without mentioning the piercings but chose not too. Now you may say "Will, that may be true but even if so, it was a woman so no man should be wearing earrings or anything of the like." Not true. We see as early as Exodus that men wore earrings. There is no gender exclusivity to this. 

Christian singer Kari Jobe wearing a nose
ring although it's difficult to see.

Really, it's not a matter of can a Christian get these piercings but should they. That is a personal matter truly between the believer and the Father. I felt no conviction in getting my ears pierced. For me it was and still is an expression of my individuality and character. I honestly feel the same with a nose ring if I get it done. Now there are those who take it to an extreme as we do see people with piercings in every inch of their face (and quite frankly it looks painful). I personally believe an over-excess of piercings can draw the wrong kind of attention. Yes, for those people who choose this extreme, they aren't bothered by the attention and may even enjoy it. However, us as believers should consider why are we getting the piercing. Is it simply because we like it? Or is their and underline? Are you looking for attention? Is your piercing going to be reflection of your pride? As in "Yeah, I got piercing. Pretty cool right?" or whatever vernacular you choose to use. Is it a symbol of rebellion against authority? your parents? In cases like these than yes, a piercing is a problem and can become detrimental to the spirit. Outside of this, much like what I said about tattoos a few blogs back, consult with the Father. Pray on it and if you genuinely feel the spirit is not convicting you, than go under your own free will. 

Sound Off:

Do you have piercings? Have people given you a hard time about it?

Should Christians get piercings?

Should piercings be limited to just ears? What about lips? eyebrows? nose?

Would you consider a piercing knowing the bible doesn't directly condemn it?

Can people truly get "carried away" with piercings? How? And does it make them less loved by God or less Christian?

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Faith & Fashion: Does The Church Have A Dress Code?

Meagan Good wife of Pastor Devon Franklin

1 Samuel 16: 7

But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.

Rapper/Poet Jackie Hill Perry was recently commented on
her fashion on Instagram stating she wished Jackie to dress
more "girly" as God's transformation should also translate
to our apparel.

Suits and ties, long dresses, vests, polished black shoes and more makes it seem like the church initially has a dress code. What's often referred to as your "Sunday's best" people take this day to dawn their favorite "church outfit." While this is no problem at all, some people believe that the dress code should be exclusive to suits, dresses, vests and the like. Many churches frown at the idea of jeans, sneakers and let's not get started on jewelry and makeup. Many cite Deuteronomy 22:5 as their bases for these views. In a nutshell that verse states women should not wear what is considered for men and vice versa. The problem when using this verse to enforce your churches dress code is that there's a historical issue. In biblical time, people initially wore the same thing. Some form of cloak or tunic was worn with the difference in women would be the length of the garment and how it was decorated (or ornamented).

 

The consensus is if a man dresses like this in Church
he must in some way highly spiritual. This is a false idea.

A lot of it stems from tradition and while it may seem unimportant and harmless, it can become a strong deterrent for those who want to attend church services. I've hear countless stories of people being told they had to remove jewelry before stepping into a church, having to change their outfit entirely, wipe of their makeup, etc. The other extreme is some churches will not allow you to enter unless you look presentable. I read a story that a young man was not welcomed to church because he was wearing a plain white shirt, jeans and sneakers. The usher told him "I know you have better clothes than that" and something to the degree of "God deserves better than that from you." That discouraged me so much because the bible is clear that God does not look at the appearance. Those people we see wearing the freshly pressed suits, shined shoes, long skirts with church hats aren't necessarily right in God's eyes. Sometimes the most beautifully dressed have the dirtiest secrets. Some use 1st Timothy 2:9 to mandate women to be "plain" by not doing their hair, not wearing jewelry etc. Paul was saying true beauty shouldn't be measured merely by outer appearance but rather the acts of the believer. This is further echoed in 1 Peter 3:3-4. We all sin, no one's exempt from that but some try fool others, themselves, and even God by how they dress. 

Small church White Tail Chapel encourages it's congregants to
come nude...so there's no issue with clothes here...

"So Will, that means we can go to church wearing whatever we want?"...No. While I do believe there's no "dress code" per se we should consider modesty. Men and Women shouldn't come in looking like their homeless (this is different if they actually are). At the very least look respectable. If you can you look stellar at a party or a night out you can certainly clean yourself up for church. We shouldn't dress with intent to seduce someone. Some women dress in form fitting outfits because they want to be stared at. Men often do the same with the hunger to have their "swag" or how the young people say "drip" recognized. Again, it's not wrong to be what society considers well dressed. You like suits? Throw em on! Long Dresses and your hair in a bun? Go 'head. However, your fashion choices aren't necessarily a reflection of God in your life because as said; you can dress great but your heart could be naked and bare. Jesus told the pharisees in Luke 11:39 comparing them to cups or chalices that outside they may look clean or presentable but inside they're wicked and ugly. Be respectable in the house of the Lord. Be considerate of what you wear. Don't cause other's to stumble (Romans 14:19-21).

What do you think?

Should Christians wear whatever they want? Even if it might cause the wrong attention?

How do you dress on a day/night out compared to church? Is their more care in the former?

While God does look at the heart, do you think He also observes your fashion choices?

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Should Christians Listen To Secular Music

Left to Right: Ariana Grande, Michael Jackson, Marshmello, Adele,  and Post Malone

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, 

whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, 

whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or 

praiseworthy—think about such things.

Philippians 4:8

It's been a question I get a handful of times throughout the year every year. Are Christians allowed to listen to secular music?. The immediate answer is yes. The better question is SHOULD Christians listen to secular music. That's where we need to do a bit of unpacking. A lot of Christians who are zealous in the faith with give a resounding "No!" as the answer. However, if we take a breathe for a second, put down the bible and pick a up a dictionary we can start there. The first two definitions of secular according to Merriam Webster is "1a. of or relating to the worldly and 1b. Not overtly or specifically religious." So here's the thing a song that contains no religious over or undertones is considered secular. You know what that means? Any and I mean ANY songs that don't specifically mention God, Jesus, the scriptures or the Christian church in a heavy matter is secular. That doesn't only mean the popular songs you  hear on radio today but that also means any song from "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" to insanely popular "Let It Go" from the Disney movie "Frozen."

Disney's smash hit film "Frozen's" lead character Elsa sings the
popular song "Let it Go" which currently has 1.7 billion views
on Youtube. 

I know what you're thinking "C'mon Will, seriously? Those songs are different than the secular garbage on the radio." Not true. Based on the definitions we've read not only does Frozen fall into that category but so does all Disney original songs, nursery rhymes, Sesame Street and even our national anthem "The Star Spangled Banner" is a secular song. So this is where we have the consider the content of the song itself. What is the song saying? If it's a love song, say, Michael Jackson's "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" is the song in itself wrong? Can a loving Christian couple or even a married couple listen to this when feeling in romantic mood? Or Do you want to be lovey-dovey while listening to "Reckless Love"? We complain of the artist who sings the song. "Their lifestyle doesn't honor God so I don't want to listen to their music." Well, what if you're in a restaurant and an Atheist or LGBT person cooked your food? Would you still eat it? What if an outfit you absolutely adored was made by a Muslim or Buddhist? Would you still buy it despite their lifestyle? And who's to say that all of our beloved Christian/Gospel artists are living righteous. When Kirk Franklin confessed his porn addiction, many still listened to his music. When Gospel Singer Tye Tribbet or Gospel Rapper Da' T.R.U.T.H. had extramarital affairs , people were still listening. 

A superstar of the early 2000's Avril Lavigne
released a faith based single this year "Head Above Water"

Now, this is no excuse to listen foul mouthed, sexually explicit, violent music. It's clear as Christians this is something we should avoid as music is indeed a powerful thing. The largest book the bible is a book of songs. The bible, as a matter fact, has songs about praise and worship (obviously) but it also has songs of love and even intimacy in the Songs of Solomon. It has songs on death and mourning in Lamentations. So music doesn't have to exclusively be praise and worship based on the structure of the Bible alone. Personally, again, personally, I believe it's perfectly fine for a believer to listen to music that isn't promoting sinful behavior. Why I say this? Because as stated, music is powerful and in it's atmosphere it can cause influence. I personally can listen a song that's full of bad language and I know I won't be influenced because I know I'm strong in that regard, however there are people, especially young people who are not. When a song plays that begs the listener to "shake it" will almost always trigger a young person to either sing along or to shake their behind. It's the influence and atmosphere that the music brings. So I will say this, if you know that certain kinds of music will trigger a fleshly impulse in you, than please, stay away from it. There are plenty of faith based alternatives if your trying to avoid mainstream music as a whole. There's Christian rap, rock, edm, pop, country, metal, blue grass, reggae, Latin, etc. It's all there for you to choose from. If you are a believer who, like me, is fine listening to mainstream music, please be considerate of those who do not understand that point of view. It may confuse and cause them to stumble. If you have friends come over who listen to only Christian/Gospel music you can pause your PrettyMuch playlist for a few hours as to not make them uncomfortable or confuse them. 

In the end. Music in itself isn't wrong or evil. God made it! Yes, the enemy may be running things behind the scenes but there is a difference between running and owning. Not all non-Christian songs are wicked, evil, 4 minutes of satanism. My dad who is a son of a Pastor and an active member of his local congregation likes Adele, My mother is lover of old school songs from the 80's and early 90's, My sister loves Ariana Grande and I have personally warned her about not all but some of her songs and to listen carefully. Me? I love everything but I know what I don't like and what's in the end not beneficial for my spiritual life. When it comes to secular or mainstream music; listen with caution or don't listen at all. Choice is yours.

What do you think?

Is all secular music wrong regardless of content?

Secular or Mainstream? What do you call it? Does it make a difference?

Even if it doesn't affect you, would you still listen to secular music that's vulgar?

Is listening to just Christian music dull, boring and repetitive?

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10 Most Influential Artists in CHH (Personal Opinion)

Lecrae Concert in Tulsa, OK

Christian Hip Hop (CHH) and all of its other variants (Gospel Rap, Christian Rap, Faith Rap, etc) have made a very unique impression in the world of hip hop and even music in general. I never thought some of the CHH artists I've heard during the early 2000s would've blown up to be some of the most respected lyricists in the game. For those of you who aren't too familiar with the sub-genre, it started back in the '80s but you can find even deeper roots with a group called The Jubailaires and their song "Noah" where it definitely sounds like rap is being used before rap was even a thing. Mind you, that group was active from the 1940s to the '50s! Even though this is the case, the Jubailares will not be on this list as "rap" wasn't a thing until the late 70's when it began to become a genre in its own right. CHH has many artists and groups that could've made this list 50 influential artists or even 100 but I don't feel like writing that much. So I did my very best to make this list as eclectic as possible. Hopefully, you'll learn a little something and if you're the type who kinda shrugged off or snubbed CHH, you may give a little more credit to these men and women.

10. Heesun Lee (Staten Island, NY)

When it comes to female rappers, they're a dime a dozen. You have Lauren Hill, Missy Elliot to Cardi B and Nicki Minaj. That group gets even further marginalized when it comes to Asian rappers, let alone female Asian rappers. Even further when it comes to female Asian rappers who declare Jesus as King. Born in Seoul, South Korea, Heesun Lee is indeed a rarity in the culture of CHH. Her mic skills could honestly put to shame to some of today's MC's (both male and female). Her album Stereotypes was her breakthrough album as it threw her name in billboard Gospel charts. A busy mother and wife, Heesun steadily pushed out 2 more projects Beauty For Ashes in 2016 and most recently Flying Cars this year. Heesun is most definitely an inspiration to many young ladies but even more so to ladies in the Asian community who desire to express their faith.

09. The 4 Horseman 
Loso (Tampa, FL) Street Hymns (Dallas, TX) Th3 Saga (Queens, NY) A. Ward (Kansas City, MO)

The next entry is a group of 4 brothers absolutely killing the battle rap scene. When you think battle rap it's more than likely you think of clubs or bars where the lines being thrown heavily involve sexual innuendos, gun violence, and profanity that would make Gordon Ramsey blush. So it's surprising to know that some of the hottest rising MC's in the sport of battle rap are truly unashamed believers. Arguably the most prominent of the 4 is Loso who has taken on some of the biggest names in battle rap including B.Dot & DNA. However, his fellow horsemen are no small potatoes as Th3 Saga who created the stable has several classics under his belt including a battle in which a rapper named Tink the Demon actually threw up before the battle even started (was this a spiritual reaction to facing Saga or drinking too much we don't know.) Street Hymns is a proud nerd whose insane rhyme schemes have kept him in the conversation. In one case his opponent never arrived at the battle which is a big no-no in battle rap. A.Ward is a passionate MC who is also climbing the ranks. According to a list created by The Source A. Ward was one of the top battlers of 2018 (1 spot above Loso). Needless to say, the brothers are making themselves known in a community where it is least expected. They're different and they're shining they're light.

08. KJ-52 (Tampa, FL)

KJ-52 is a veteran in the realm of CHH. Releasing his first solo project in 2000, the man is almost 2 decades into his musical career. KJ (real name Jonah Sorrentino) is more than a rapper. He also has taken a Pastoral role as a teacher in his home church. He is also (and more recently) become an author and has released a book "What Happened Was" chronicling his journey. KJ also has some notoriety to his name as in 2002 he released a song entitled "Dear Slim" where he's reaching out to rap icon Eminem. The song caught the attention of so many it got featured on MTV's Total Request Live. Oddly many translated this as a diss track towards the future "rap god" and fans sent hateful letters and even death threats to KJ. KJ-52 would constantly be teased as the Christian version of Eminem which is an unfortunate stigma still pinned to many white rappers. KJ believes however Eminem did respond to the track 9 years later in his song "Be Careful What You Wish For." As polarizing as KJ may have been at the time, similar to Shady, KJ continues to push forward has since amassed 12 albums, collabed with some CHH's top such as Lecrae, Derek Minor, This'l, TobyMac, KB and countless others. At 43 years old it seems KJ still has a lot more bars in him and he seems to only get better with age. 

07. Danny "D-Boy" Rodriguez (Dallas, TX)

It's more than likely that if you're a current fan of CHH you may not have ever heard of D-Boy. During CHH's infancy, there weren't a lot of people out there doing it. Danny Rodriguez was signed to Frontline Records, a label centered on faith-based modern rock, pop and hip hop. D-Boy often used to the term "street poet" as opposed to rapper. He's also regarded as one of the first in the sub-genre to utilize sampling in his records. The reason Danny makes this list, however, is a more saddening one. Danny is regarded as Christian Hip Hops first martyr. Rodriguez was shot in his apartment in 1990. No official cause for the shooting has ever been released. According to his mother, the reasons varied from mistaken identity to attempted robbery but no one really knows. It's without hesitation we'd say Danny left believing in the God he earnestly rapped about. As far as commercial success Danny's album "Lyrical Strength of One Street Poet" landed number 35 on Billboards CCM charts but received little radio play as at the time, Christian radio wasn't ready for the "raw" rap sound of Danny. His story is a reminder that we should always try to live for Christ and if it happens, to be ready to ultimately die for him. "Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it." Matthew 10:39.

                                                                             06. Beautiful Eulogy (Portland, OR)         

(from left to right) Courtland Urbano, Odd Thomas, & Braille)

When you think of rap you probably wouldn't think of 3 white dudes from Portland, Oregon. Beautiful Eulogy, however, brings an incredibly clean cut kind of rap to the table. Longtime rap veteran Braille and Odd Thomas joined forces with producer Courtland Urbano (former known a DJ Xperiment) to create a truly unique sounding group. They have been called Experimental Hip Hop, Hipster Hip Hop and even Coffee House Hip Hop. One thing is certain, they bring their love for the Messiah and proper theology to the forefront of their music. Their not aiming for billboard accolades, awards or earning spots in our top 10 lists but rather to see souls not only won for the Messiah but souls to fall in love with him. The trio is a part of the Humble Beast roster a non-profit record label who gives their music away freely (although to purchase is an option and donating is as well). They have expanded their label to more than music. Humble Beast also deals with art, books and has even begun (albeit a short-lived) coffee distribution. Needless to say, Beautiful Eulogy is, in my opinion regardless of its 501 status is a CHH powerhouse. Both Braille and Odd Thomas have been regarded as some of the best rappers in the history of the sub-genre based on skill alone. 

05. Jackie Hill Perry (St. Louis, MO)

Spoken word artist, MC, Speaker, Author, and Instagram Comedienne (I'm not kidding) Jackie Hill Perry is an amazing walking example of God's grace. Her poetry will draw you in like a deer who didn't know it was thirsty to a lake. You'll want to hear more. Subject matter ranging from Marijuana to Homosexuality, Jackie brings a confidence to the mic and that the holy spirit only amplifies when conviction comes to the listener. Jackie Hill is well known for being an ex-lesbian who became a God fearing woman who abandoned her desires to seek God. This echoes the heart of Jeremiah 17:9 (read it). In 2014 Jackie released her first rap album entitled "The Art of Joy" to the #6 spot on the Itunes Rap/Hip Hop chart. This will be a good time to let you know Jackie is signed to Humble Beast records. Yeah, if you read the entry above than you know that's the non-profit record label that gives music out for free. That should tell you loads about her influence and the support of her fans. Jackie is also a part of the largest spoken word tour in the world "Poets in Autumn" where she along with several other spoken word artists travel around the country performing their poetry. As mentioned, Jackie left her lesbianism and the details of her story can be found in her book "Gay Girl Good God" which can be purchased here. Jackie released her sophomore project last year "Crescendo" which also sat pretty in the charts. Jackie is married to fellow spoken word artist Preston Perry and has two daughters Eden and Autumn. 

04. The Cross Movement (Philadelphia, PA)

The Cross Movement (From left to right): Ambassador, Earthquake,
Phanatik, Cruz Cordero, John Wells  (Tonic),  T.R.U.-L.I.F.E.)

Arguably one of the pillars of CHH is philadelphia's own Cross Movement. This group and label started in 1996 and their first album in 97'. For a lot of today's MC's the Cross Movement was either heavily influential or gave a them a lauching pad. Veterans such as Lecrae, Da' T.R.U.T.H. and FLAME all had their start with Cross Movement. Andy Mineo has stated during his early on career that Ambassador was his favorite rapper. It's almost accurate to say without these gentleman offering their ministry, studio time, help and platform that we may have never seen a blow up in CHH the way we have now. In 2009 founding member Juan "Enoch" James passed away due to a heart attack at the young age of 35. Enoch has been honored by many in the CHH community including battle rapper Street Hymns. The influence of the movement cannot be denied. They went on several solo ventures notably Ambassador who's earned several nominations throughout. In 2016 the group was awarded the Legacy Lifetime Award for their contributions to the community, sub-genre and their service to the Messiah. The Cross Movement made it clear however, it's never about the awards or accolades but rather fulfilling their purpose in Christ and reflecting that love to others. And that is truly a legacy worth keeping alive.

03. T-Bone (San Francisco, CA)

Since 1993 T-Bone has been dropping lyrics for the glory of God but has been active since 89'. T-Bone's story is saturated in gang violence with the on going war between Crypts and Bloods. After seeing his friend get shot and killed "over a color" he began to redirect his life towards Christ. T-Bone trail blazed through CHH and even made crossover appeal. T-Bone collaborated with mainstream artists such as Mack-10, KRS One and Chino XL. T-Bone hosted several music video based shows on GMC, TBN & JC-TV. He also would see himself sharing the big screen with Cuba Gooding Jr. and "the queen" Beyonce in the film "The Fighting Temptations." T-Bone also appeared in the 2013 film "I'm in Love with a Church Girl" along with rap veteran Ja Rule. T-Bone has now since become a singer in the pop genre, specifically Latin Gospel Pop.  However, T-Bone released his final hip hop album "Broken English" after 10 years. T-Bone when interviewing other rappers who cited to listen to his work would "challenge" them to recite the lyrics to Lyrical Assassin, a classic track of his. Although at times some of his songs came across as braggadocious there's no denying T-Bone is grateful for where the Lord has taken and continues to take him. T-Bone has shown that a person who adhere's to the faith can certainly become successful without compromise and that there's more to life than what the world is offering. 

02. Pastor Stephen Wiley (Muskogee, OK)

Stephen Wiley is most likely the reason any of these people are here. Stephen Wiley was a Jazz drummer and local DJ. He is also regarded as the 1st artist to ever record a full Christian rap album. In 1985 he released his cassette "Bible Break." The song of the same title would reach number 14 in 86' on Christian radio. Stephen released 5 more projects before laying down the mic. Stephen founded and Pastors Praise Center Family Church in his home town. He is also the Assistant Vice President, Director of Christian Ministries and Assistant Professor of Religion, at Bacone College where he teaches full-time. T-Bone has acknowledged the work of Wiley in his song "Our History." Social Club Misfits (when they were simply known as Social Club) also gave a nod to Stephen Wiley in the their song "Art Vandelay" from their free project "Summer of George." Stephen Wiley is also in the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame. We believe Stephen is certainly in line for a Legacy award or some sort of recognition from today's CHH community. Thank you Pastor Wiley!

01. Lecrae (Houston, TX)

Arguably one of the most polarizing figures in the sub-genre. However you look at Lecrae one thing's for certain, the man is truly influential in the genre. Where to start? As mentioned Lecrae started with the Cross Movement and his first few big hits were songs like "Prayin' For You" and of course "Jesus Muzik" with Trip Lee. Lecrae wouldn't explode until a little further down the road when his 3rd studio album "Rebel" came out in 2008. It was Lecrae's first album to hit the billboard 200 charts (at #60). Thanks to his song "Don't Waste Your Life" Lecrae could no longer go unnoticed. He was making noise. His next album "Rehab" catapulted him to #17 on the Billboard and the song that truly earned Lecrae a spot on larger stages was his song "Background." On a personal note, Lecrae has made reading the scriptures relevant for me. He made it "cool" to get into the word. As I did so, I realized it wasn't "cool" but rather necessary for my growth and I will always be grateful for that.  Fast forward to his Church Clothes mixtape release and now mainstream hip hop is on notice. His 2012 album "Gravity" seen stellar production, art direction and collaboration with mainstream artist Big K.R.I.T. It seems Lecrae began to echo the success of T-Bone but to a much larger scale (No disrespect to T-Bone). Today Lecrae  has a total of 12 projects. His music has been featured in reality shows, films and even Disney. But Lecrae is more than music. He's taken countless trips to the 3rd world countries and brought hope to those in need along with getting his hands dirty. He's persistently pushing against injustices (especially those of race), he's written pieces regarding the culture, he's challenged men (especially men of color) to be present and better fathers to their children. Lecrae may be polarizing to some but at the end the Lord sees his heart. If you don't like him, fine but pray for him. Lecrae is the co-owner of reach records who hosts a roster of talented artists (Trip Lee, Tedashii, Andy Mineo, Gawvi, KB, 1k Phew, and WHATUPRG), he's a New York Times best selling author, he's a leader and has helped redefine the sub-genre.  Lecrae has reached over to a place that few aspiring CHH artists may never see. That shouldn't make us jealous or spiteful but rather celebratory as someone is shining a lot in the dark space we cannot get too. 

Why is Success in Christian Music Polarizing?

Lauren Daigle has crossed over to mainstream success to both the praise
and jeers of believers

For those of you that have been lost in the excitement CCM artist Lauren Daigle has taken the music world by storm. Daigle's 3rd studio album, Look Up Child, sat pretty at #3 in the Billboard 200 which (for those who don't know) covers EVERY genre of music. To achieve this she sold over 115,000 units (pure album sales, streams, etc). It's the highest selling Christian album since Hard Love by NEEDTOBREATHE in 2016. It's also the highest-charting Christian album by a woman since LeAnn Rimes You Light Up My Life back in 97'! Her album beat the likes of Drake and even pop sensation Ariana Grande in the charts at the time of its release. There are plenty more accolades. Lauren has since then caught the attention of mainstream media being covered by the likes of Rolling Stone and Entertainment Weekly amongst others. Lauren also has performed on several mainstream (or if you're super conservative "secular") platforms which where some of the backlashes comes in.

Lauren Daigle with Ellen DeGeneres after her performance

Lauren recently performed on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Ellen is arguably the world's most famous LGBTQ celebrity and if you're a believer, you know that lifestyle isn't one that's agreed within the Christian belief. However, this did not stop Lauren from doing an absolutely stellar job on the show but many people felt the need to bash her for being on such a "wicked" platform. Lauren's response was simple. In a nutshell, she simply stated that if we begin to draw lines on who we can and cannot associate with we "miss the heart of God entirely" which in all honesty, I totally agree with. In terms of Christian artists (Worshippers), the initial goal should be to reach as many people as we can with the good news of the Gospel. If we just stick to the 4 corners of the church we'll never really get any traction going. It'll be like shining a flashlight in a well-lit room. In my opinion, Lauren is adhering to the scripture where it speaks of the great commission. In the end, her music will not save anyone (or any Gospel/Christian music for that matter). That ability solely belongs to Jesus but it can LEAD people to Christ. Why is it though we constantly choose to attack our family in the faith when they become noticed by the system of the world and begin to be on their stages, their concerts, their events, etc? Shouldn't we be happy that there's someone in the midst of that mess spreading the message of the Gospel?

Lecrae & Tori Kelly performing their song I'll Find You on
Good Morning America

Gospel music veteran Kirk Franklin shares the stage with
Chance the Rapper at the 2017 Grammy's

Is it a sense of jealousy? Are we mad because it's not us? Is it concern because there is temptation in the world and we fear the person in question may go astray? I think it's a mix of both. There are always going to be people jealous of what God does and who he chooses. That includes people in the church, especially those in worship. Though we know the goal is always to lift the name of God up many do desire full-time ministry and to be able to live off that work. When we see people like Lauren Daigle, Lecrae, Skillet, Kirk Franklin, TobyMac, Kim Walker, David Crowder, Kari Jobe, Andy Mineo and more not only succeed but thrive in their positions we begin to wonder what deals did they make or what's going on behind the scenes to get them where they're at and suddenly success in Christian music becomes "ungodly." I understand the other side, the concern. Just as we can influence others to come to Christ it's also very possible for those on "the other side" to influence us if we're not spiritually prepared. Fame, sales, sold out shows can certainly inflate one's ego and no matter how spiritual your songs may be, you're still most certainly susceptible to sin and fall. Problem is when we see a well-known artist of the faith fall we're so quick to kick dirt in their eye instead of praying for them, rebuking them in love or even accepting their humanity. They're in the flesh just as much as we are. There's already a lot of pressure when you become "famous" as your life is now examined under a microscope and people are watching everything you do and say on camera, online, on radio and of course social media.

I'm not saying I always agree with what some of these artists do but I'm never upset or jealous that they're on "the other side" because, well, we need them there. Let's face facts. It's likely that not every single worshipper who desires full time will ever meet the likes of Adele, Bruno Mars, Drake Or Ariana Grande. We should focus on where we are NOW and if the Father opens the doors for a larger platform, great! To his name be the glory. When it's NOT you but rather somebody else, rejoice! And if that person is able to cross over into the mainstream, CELEBRATE them and cover them in prayer. Don't harbor jealousy, hate or envy.

What do you think?

Was Lauren wrong for being on The Ellen Show?

Should Christian/Gospel artists stay away from Mainstream/Secular venues?

Should Christian/Gospel artists share the same stage as Mainstream artists?

Is there a difference between artists and ministers or can artistry and ministry blend seamlessly?

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It's Full of Hypocrites: The Worst Excuse Not To Go To Church

And let us consider how to stir up one another

in love and good works, not neglecting to meet together,

as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another,

and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Hebrews 10:24-25

Roughly 34% of Americans go to church every week or at least once a week. The rest vary. One of the biggest reasons (or excuses) people use to not go to church is the famous "It's full of hypocrites" statement. For years I've heard people use this statement to justify not going to church and I always just accepted it. It made me sad sometimes but I understood where it was coming and when I realized where it came from that's when it struck me. Why does it matter what other people do? You go to church for God not them. As I got older I realized further that's one of the worst excuses you can give to not go to church. Why? Because when you say you don't go to church because it's full of hypocrites you're ultimately saying you want to go to a church where there are perfect people because guess what? The church is made for broken, messed up people including the hypocrite!

We all have something dirty about us, regardless the church
should welcome all. 

You may have heard at one time or another the church is like "a hospital for the sick" and it truly is. As long as you and I are on this earth, we're still in the flesh and hold the probability to fall to our sinful nature. The church does not (at least it shouldn't) reject people who are sinners because if they did...there would be no church. The church isn't a collection of perfect people although some believers like to make it seem that way. No, you come as you are regardless of your struggle. Porn addict? You're welcome to the church. Struggling with Alcohol? Yep, you too. Anger issues?
Welcome! Hypocrite? there's a spot for you too. We're not perfect but constantly seek out a perfect God to give us strength in our struggles until we ultimately overcome them and in turn create testimonies of deliverance. If we honestly let the actions of others dictate our congregating we may never go to church and while it's not a specific mandate of the Gospels it is encouraged to do so as written in the scripture above this blog. I don't know about you but if I believe the holy scriptures to be the true word of God, I might wanna do what it's encouraging me to do.

Listen, if you don't want to go to church. Don't. No one can force you and God won't either. However please do not use the lame excuse that it's full of hypocrites because again, you're basically saying you'll go to a temple if the congregants there are without fault. If you don't want to go to church because you've had bad experiences in the past let me assure you that not all believers are the same.
Not all of us are "holier than thou" (in the context of "I'm better than you"). I apologize if you've been hurt by them. We don't have it all together nor do we have it all figured out. Please don't let the hurtful and sometimes hateful actions of certain "believers" distort your view of God. We're not him and he's not us. He's perfect. We're not. I encourage you, find a bible based church that teaches the word of God that you feel comfortable in. No church should ever make you feel awkward or like an oddity.

Sound off!

Can you still be a genuine believer without going to church?

Is Church attendance necessary for Salvation?

Is hypocrisy the only reason people avoid church?

What would you tell a person who refuses to go to church because of hypocrisy?  

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