Los Angeles, CA – Lil Nas X’s upcoming single “J Christ” has already sparked controversy among Christian rappers before its release. The rapper recently shared an image preview for the song on social media, featuring himself as Jesus Christ on the cross, with a group of people pulling it into place. He also included a GIF of himself as Jesus on a golden cross, which transforms into angelic armor. The provocative imagery immediately drew criticism from Christian rapper Bryson Gray, who accused Lil Nas X of mocking Christianity and Christ. Gray called on other Christians to denounce the rapper and his actions.
Gray expressed his belief that Lil Nas X is a reprobate, as described in Romans 1, and accused him of using Christian imagery to mock Christianity for the sake of gaining attention and clicks. Gray emphasized the need for Christians to react and condemn Lil Nas X’s behavior. He also criticized the music industry as a whole, labeling it as “demonic” and against Christianity.
Another Christian rapper, Holy Gabbana, shared Gray’s sentiments about Lil Nas X’s offensive imagery but suggested showing the rapper grace and forgiveness due to his ignorance. Gabbana acknowledged that Lil Nas X’s actions were offensive to those who genuinely love Jesus Christ but highlighted the need for love and forgiveness in response.
Lil Nas X faced backlash in 2021 for his use of satanic imagery in his music and merchandise. His music video for the song “MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)” featured provocative scenes of him pole dancing and giving Satan a lap dance in Hell. He also released a line of sneakers with satanic symbols and claimed to have included a drop of real human blood in them.
In conclusion, Lil Nas X’s upcoming single “J Christ” has caused a stir among Christian rappers, with Bryson Gray and Holy Gabbana offering differing opinions on how to respond. Gray called for outright condemnation, while Gabbana advocated for extending grace and forgiveness. These conflicting perspectives highlight the ongoing debate within the Christian community regarding how to address controversial and offensive actions.