Springfield Church of the Brethren Message of the Week 11/17/19 Sins of the Father

This week we’re looking at Ezekiel 18, relating to how God deals with sin, grace and forgiveness and how the church treats new believers. For an illustration, I am looking at the way some in the media and social media, Christian and non-Christian are reacting to the conversion of Kanye West.

Kanye West…

Okay, full disclosure, I can honestly say I am not sure I have heard a single Kanye song. No negativity intended, I’m just not a rap guy. That being said, I am having a really hard time with the posts I have been seeing. Evidently Mr. West has converted to Christianity and the “inter-webs” are full of opinions on it. Is he sincere? Is this just a move to advance his career? I have to admit I am frustrated. A man has given his heart to Christ. We should be rejoicing. The angels are. Instead, so many are questioning his motives. To me, it’s out of bounds. Maybe it’s just because I am a guy who saw the light after a pretty bad struggle with alcohol, being suicidal, etc., but who are we to question anyone’s conversion? Granted, I’m kind of a nobody and he’s a household name, but he deserves the benefit of the doubt and more, he deserves our prayers.

Let’s say for a moment that his conversion is totally sincere. He has had a full on saving experience with Christ. Those of us who have come to Christ, know how hard those days after conversion can be. Most of us, especially those who have had more radical experiences, will tell you, the enemy cranks up the heat in those days. Now imagine you can’t even be happy about the miracle Jesus ha done in your life, because a million of your alleged brothers and sisters are dragging your motivations through the mud… a million people who are posting nasty things about your conversion. Can you imagine how hurtful that is to him? Can you imagine how negatively you reflect the cause of Christ, not just to Mr. West, but to his legions of fans. I think we need to take a hard look at how we are treating this new brother.

Here’s the thing. Kanye’s conversion is between him and Jesus. Our opinions are irrelevant. His conversion is none of our business. If it turns out your worst suspicions about the man are true, that’s also between him and Jesus. If, on the other hand, our attitudes cause him or his fans to stumble, that’s on us. So here’s what I have to say to a man who will likely never read this. Welcome to the family, brother Kanye. I’m praying for you.