Man, I respect what you did. You educated yourself. One you see it, you can’t unsee it. Some of the things that you questioned was some of my questions. All I wanted to see was evidence for said claims, but they fell flat. Pastors told me you have to believe it by faith, I said, na I’m good. Y’all can have this!!! Glad you made it out, journey well.
The Scriptures say the apostles went around preaching the word everywhere and God CONFIRMING the word through signs and wonders. You know the word but now you need to experience it for yourself to know it is true. Maybe find a church that doesn’t just preach the word but lays hands on people and heals the sick, casts out demons, prophesies. Somewhere you can get hands laid on and be baptized with the Holy Spirit and see for yourself whether this Holy Spirit spoken of in the Bible which Jesus told us about is true or not. And you will find my brother that it’s all true praise God. Scripturally that’s your confirmation not anything not any type of ‘education’ nope. God’s power is at work today and everyday and if the gospel wasn’t true then how could that be. Hope you find Him bro🙏🏾❤
Respect what you did and I appreciate you for opening up and sharing your experience conversations like these are important it’s sad that when you question anything it is looked down upon by people who probably have the same questions and every answer is to have faith because that’s probably what someone told them but in reality everyone is just repeating what someone told them wether it was passed down verbally or written!
Fell into this exact boat in 2015 (3 years into my marriage). As a previous pastor myself, your words and speculations resonate hard with me. I also called myself an agnostic. Praying God reveals himself to you as He did for me though. I once opened up a show for you in Kansas City, at a church called Christian fellowship. You had a big impact on me with your music in Life By Stereo, and even lent me your phone number at the time. Much love for you Courtney. God bless you.
Hey Courtney, first off, I’m genuinely glad to hear you’re doing well, especially with your mental health. I’m sure the language of those diagnoses probably helped; it did for me when I was diagnosed with onset PTSD. I also appreciate you sharing your journey and the questions that led you away from faith. I’m so bummed that folks didn’t have answers for you when you needed them. I’m glad your white friends told you they don’t support police brutality. Many of us, myself included, have also consistently spoken out against it. As for Trump, while some fringe Christians saw him as 'God's man,' most who voted for him did so because they viewed him as the 'lesser of two evils.' That’s debatable, but it's different from the narrative often portrayed. In reality, 40% of white evangelicals didn’t vote at all, and only about 48% actually voted for Trump, showing a much more nuanced picture than the '80% of evangelicals' narrative. Now, let’s address the other concerns: 1. The Creation Story: Many Christians see Genesis as a narrative about God, humanity, and our brokenness rather than a scientific account, which is why interpretations vary within the faith. 2. God 'Sanctioning' Rape, Torture, and Slavery: These Old Testament passages are descriptive, not endorsements. They reflect the harsh realities of ancient times, and the Bible progressively reveals God’s heart for justice, mercy, and compassion, which culminates in Jesus. 3. Suffering and Evil: The central message of Christianity is that God entered our suffering through Jesus. The cross stands as the ultimate example of God taking on pain and injustice, offering hope and redemption. 4. Historical Proof of Biblical Events: There are substantial findings, like the Tel Dan Stele discovered in 1993 that mentions the 'House of David,' supporting key events and figures. Dismissing them holds the Bible to an unrealistic standard compared to other ancient history. 5. Church History and Corruption: Yes, history is messy, but Jesus’ teachings on love, humility, and justice remain uncorrupted. Every human institution has flaws, and the actions of imperfect people don’t negate the purity of Christ’s message. 6. The 42 Laws of Ma'at: These Egyptian principles predate the Bible, but as Romans 2 states, even those without the written law have a law unto themselves, showing that God’s moral truth is evident across different cultures. 7. The Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus is one of the best-supported events in ancient history, even acknowledged by many skeptical scholars. Here are four widely agreed-upon facts: (1) Jesus died by crucifixion, (2) His tomb was found empty, (3) His disciples genuinely believed they saw Him alive, and (4) The rapid growth of Christianity, despite persecution, was fueled by this belief. The transformation of Paul, a former persecutor, and James, Jesus' skeptical brother, into bold leaders of the early Church, adds weight to the claim. They wouldn't have risked everything for what they knew to be false. I know you’ve moved on, but I hope this provides some of the answers you didn’t get before. I’m always here if you want to continue the conversation.
The moment I stop taking parts in the bible (especially the creation account) literally, is where all the cards fall. Did sin enter the world literally through Adam? Why are there human-like species the existed before homosapiens (Adam & Eve) on the fossil record? I think mentioning that there are various interpretations of the creation account in Christianity doesn’t do much for a truth seeker.
@@timlewis9650but one can argue it was were never meant to be taken hyper literally. Whether that’s an old earth view, the gap theory, or theistic evolution. Christians have historically held a wide range of views. Taken genesis hyper literally is an option but it’s not the only option. Nor does it hold to church history or the poetic nature of the first few chapter. To answer your question, yes Adam and Eve were literal people and yes sin (as in transgression against God’s word) entered through Adam. But that doesn’t mean a literal 6 days of creation is cornerstone to the faith 😂😂😂 assuming it is, is a relatively modern option. Right along with the dispensational rapture.
I deconstructed from Christianity after believing in it for most of my life. Along the way, I discovered numerous historical, psychological, and philosophical issues with the religion. Deconstructing wasn’t easy, but I’ve never felt freer since making this choice, and I don’t regret it for a moment. Don’t let Christians gaslight you into believing you’re lost or broken. You are capable of making your own decisions, and I know how hard this journey can be. Trust yourself-you’re finding your own path, and that’s something to be proud of.
Greetings from East St. Louis! So happy to see dear brothers like you extracting themselves from totalizing lie we have been given. It is hard when the entire U.S. culture (& so much of Black culture) supports it. [insert matrix metaphor]😂I can’t wait to see what you make artistically going forward. ❤
I’m going to be honest, I’m trying to make it to the end of your video but… I keep hearing you trying to find reasoning with how the Church and main stream Christians operate and how that coincides with world tragedies. You’ll never be able to make sense of that because all of that deals with humans and their desires. So… the real question is does God exist? And so you need to ask yourself, have you ever experienced Him? When did you decide Christianity was the way for you? Most Christians, even those that were born into it have experienced God themselves where from that experience no one can convince them He doesn’t exist. If you don’t know or have that then this is why you are where you are. History and science essentially prove that God exists and highlight the events of the Bible. I’m sorry you’ve been traumatized and your illness further convolutes your quest for truth but I think you should reflect back on how you knew God existed then or did you ever believe.
Yup. I almost did the same thing. But when you peel the fruit back layer by layer the root of all my frustration was HUMAN PERFORMANce. That's why I thank God that my hope is in Jesus not mortal imperfect humans. 😊
Man, it's really heartbreaking to see the number of folks who keep falling from the faith increase. I don't even know what to say, but will surely pray. God loves you so so much, bro 💕
Congrats on this new stretch of your journey! I've been here for 20 years and still learning. It is wonderful to experience the wide world which has so much to teach you and to venture unafraid to the heights of your body and mind. I wish you the best!
Bro, it’s absolutely insane that I went down almost the exact same path. For me I started to see that dichotomy with the Stockley case in 2017. And the earnest studying of my faith started to bring me to conclusions that people around me were uncomfortable with. But when one theological pillar falls, so do the rest, like a house of cards. But as you said I’m the exact same person I always was, I just had to reintroduce me to myself. I’m so glad to hear you are doing well. I appreciate you for taking time out to show me some of the things you knew musically. ✊🏽
Your spiritual journey is just that….yours. It’s not surprising that many have responded with “you’re wrong” and “you’re going to return.” Thus, not respecting your decision. Trust your soul because it’s not steering you wrong. Also, once you start peeling back the layers of it all, it’s hard to return to what was. Continue to take care of yourself (mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually). Peace be the journey 🕊️❤️
Lot of ppl not gone understand this! I went thru the exact same thing during the stuff that happened in 2020 and the aftermath. Seeing ppl who I went to church with and served with, say insane things on Facebook regarding the plight of black people was eye opening. Keep praying and seeking, sir
I know a young man that has the confidence, power and resilience to make it through this time of trial. Don't underestimate yourself, you'll get through this. It makes my heart ache to hear the sadness in your voice. Church politics will steal your joy. I know that for a fact. God is good and you know that. This will pass. Remember all you've been through and are still here. Please don't despair and I pray for your healing. Love you much
JR! What's good My G, this is Azriel (from KC). Just watched and wanted to tell you I appreciate your courage for sharing your heart and expressing the multitude of struggles you've been enduring. Although we land on different sides of the Christian label, please know and understand there's no love lost at all on my end. You're my brother always. I share similar mental illness struggles and stand in solidarity with you brother. I have some of the same concerns and questions per the spectrum of culture, faith, religion, and society especially through the nuanced lens of a person of color. I hear your heart my G. I hear the pain and resolution as well in your voice. We're on this journey in life and various seasons and struggles await us all yet, with breath in our lungs on this side of eternity, we're still on that journey. I love you My G, always and forever. Keeping you lifted. My #'s the same if you ever need to reach out, process, or just talk as men, husbands, dads, in this journey.
Bro, youve always kept it 💯 with us. I appreciate your transparency. Its been a minute since we've spoke. Just want to say thank you for helping me build character, musicianship and extending your platform to me over the years. I love you brother, and i hope i see you soon! Hope all is well with the wife and kids too.
THANK YOU, COURTNEY, FOR WHAT YOU GAVE TO THE CHH COMMUNITY AND BELIEVERS WORLDWIDE FOR YEARS AND YEARS!!! THANK YOU FOR SUCH A GRACIOUS ANNOUNCEMENT! THANK YOU!!
You did a song with Swift called Smile that solidified CHH for me and you were my absolute favorite artist. I’ll be praying so deeply for you that even though you may have let go of Jesus, He won’t let go of you. Leaves the 99 for the 1.
To this day, I still listen to Life by Stereo on a regular basis. Outside of that, I’ve enjoyed all the music you’ve come out with. Your talents and music genius is crazy man. It’s all love over here as you are going through your journey and I wish you much peace. Can’t wait to hear what’s next and please keep us up to date on live performances. Salute
Thank you for your authenticity. My family has so much love for you and your family. Our love for you will continue. Real love is not phased by where your journey is taking you; it is not phased by what you decided.
This breaks my heart. It is indeed a recurring theme these days in the community and it bothers me to my core. However, i respect your new convictions. I pray for your mental health. And most importantly, I acknowledge your pain. You are more loved than you will ever know by a God who intricately made you. Injured brain and all ❤️. I know you don't believe that anymore. But I trust that in His timing, you will rediscover it. Thank you for your contributions to CHH and music as a whole. Be well brother.
Please read!!! When I was 19hears old turning 20 something happened to me. I lived in Atlanta my days then looked like chilling in the hood with my friends,I would work and as soon as I get off work we smoke weed ,drink,party and repeat daily for years. I lived at home with my Dad and step mom. One day one of my friends randomly popped a pill and that was my first time seeing that and I took one as well. I was hooked just like that on ecstasy. Around this time my girl friend got pregnant and this is where things started to take a turn. One day I was in my room just kinda bored and I was flipping through the channels and I saw Debo(yes the actor from Friday) he was on some channel talking so I stopped and listened. He started talking about Jesus,he went on to say you young men smoking weed and living in sin need to stop and that Jesus loves you… etc I felt like he was talking directly to me😂😂😂. Few days went by and I picked up my Bible and flipped to the back and just looking at words and I read the definition of a sinner(it said wrong doing,evil etc and that you sin against God. Then I read another word it said repent:to ask for forgiveness and turn to God. Reading that speed a seed. Maybe a month after that,I got fired from my job(long story there) At the same time my girl pregnant,I got fired and then my step mom kicked me out the house because I was just smoking weed ,leaving beer cans around and not contributing to anything. I found myself with a bag of clothes sleeping behind a house in my neighborhood. That night I was depressed and felt lowwwe that night I felt a peace over me like all will be well. BIG EVENT!!! After that I moved to a city where my sister lived,that night I stayed in a motel. I remember “rolling on a bean” which is I popped pills and was high that night. During that night I remember something happened to me,I felt there was a war for my soul taking place,I felt an impression (a voice saying I’ll give you money,fame and everything you want,then I heard a small voice said “I LOVE YOU” that’s all God said this was the first time I heard Him and I knew immediately it was Him and I made a move toward Him. After that I moved in with my sister and I started to read the Bible then one day I was in my room and I started crying out to God,asking Him to forgive me for my wrongs because I felt sorrow and bad about my actions. I started just crying out for what felt like hours man. On my knees I started feeling my heart become lighter,in that moment I felt my soul lift out of a dark pit. I knew something happened but I didn’t have words for it. After crying and pouring out so much I fell asleep. Then something woke me up. I couldn’t move guys,this presence filled me and I was scared then a peace and sudden calm came over me. I felt a heat like fire. Not being in church I didn’t have a word for it. Now I know it was the Holy Spirit and I was slain right then. I remember crying man and went down stairs and telling my sister and her boyfriend “God is real,God is real” my sister started crying. After that over the next few months after work I woukd literally lock myself in my room and fed on the word of God. Daily I started walking and talking with Jesus. I started telling co workers about Jesus. I didn’t go to church,I wasn’t in church at first. Much like JR I started seeking the TRUTH!!! I found it,my faith started to grow,my knowledge started to grow,my hunger for Jesus started to grow,I started to worship through music deeply. Every day all I thought about was JESUS. Then I got into a local church. Long story short God gave me gifts and talents. I started picking up the guitar and started to learn and sing songs. As that grew I would eventually lead worship at open mics,at church etc. I stared to rap about Jesus thought he music etc. Until now I do that. I’ve messed up and sinned and called short since then but I always always seek God out and talk to Him. This video is one of the scariest videos I’ve watched because of what o believe is true and I know it’s true then essentially what you’ve done is sealed your fate in Hell😢 by denying Jesus as lord and savior but there is hope because you’re still alive and can still repent and turn back to God. Bro I listen to your music and was a big fan,you were one of my favorite artist frfr. That’s why I shared this looong story😂😂😂. Love you my brother. Ain’t nothing changed I’ll still check out your music when you drop I just pray you come back Home JR.
Love you man. Been a fan for a minute. Praying that God reveals himself to you like never before. I choose to believe that your glass is half full, rather than half empty. 2 Timothy 2:13 ESV If we are faithless, he remains faithful. 🙏🏽💪🏽
What’s crazzzy is I left religion almost 20 years ago…but I’ve been rocking the “METAMORPHOSIS” Album lately..My Soul Still Vibes to this..Great music…Still positive Energy💯💣🔥🙌
I. FEEL. YOU! I no longer subscribe to Western Christianity, neither do I call myself Christian based on the truth my spiritual journey has revealed to me. My travels around the world especially to the Middle East and West African nations opened my eyes to so much and caused me to delve into so much studying of history, cultures, traditions and non-Christian schools of thought. Bro, it's been an emotional, mental and spiritual rollercoaster ever since! Howbeit, my belief in Yahushuah HaMashiach is totally by personal spiritual revelation and NOT by the Bible or religion or tradition. I have encountered YHWH. Western religion did not give me that. The Holy Spirit revealed Herself to me and the truth and has been my guide on this journey. Your music was a blessing to me in a part of my journey where I was seeking to get closer to YAH. It helped. ❤ I thank YAH for the light of your gift and your journey. My prayer is that your journey brings you to a suopernatural encounter with YAH that will heal you and deliver you completely from the impositions, manipulations and brainwashing of Imperialsitic, Eurocentic Western Religion and Western Intellectualism. It's all dead. There is no Spirit in it. There is no life. That's why the West looks the way it does and leaves carnage and destruction everywhere it touches. Our African and indigenous ancestors understood and honored YAH/the great Spirit/the Creator, the spiritual part of our existence and the Earth though many of our people are lost and have strayed away as well. I pray you get the opportunity to connect to that truth and that part of your identity. Long live truth and the seekers of it! Blessings and revelations to you, Courtney! 🙂🙏🏼💫
Healing will take time and I am so glad you are taking the time to be honest with yourself and not just sweeping everything under the rug of Jesus. Constantly taking responsibility for your healing and growth. Kepp is the good work. The work is never ending.
You're loved bro❤ I know I'm another comment in a vast sea of conversations. I normally wouldn't type this, but I just felt led to. God loves you, I don’t know you, but He does and because of that, there's deep love for you as well. I pray you get through everything you're in, health wise, emotionally, and spiritually in Jesus name I pray from the bottom of my heart that you find Joy in Jesus again ❤
Been blessed by your life and ministry since Metamorphosis. Chopped it up with you briefly at an event at Covenant Theological Seminary in Creve Cour when I was a student there. When it's all said and done the intellectual arguments for faith have their place, but ultimately that old adage old church folks use to say about knowing the Lord rings true. His hand has been and still on your life. In your testimony. Blessings 🙏🏿
I’m🙏🏾4 you and your Family God knows the heart of man. He created you, You’ve been dealing with a lot and that’s normal and you’re still here, but not by your power. I feel your pain and it is very valid so I believe you come on through it all and get the answers you can’t fathom in your mind. 🙏🏾up I know He hears me. Your name shall ring @ the throne where Jesus sits making intercession day and night✌🏾
I love Metamorphosis. Definitely one of my favorite albums and a classic. Funny, one of the songs played in my head yesterday and I just heard about your deconversion today. I can't forget closer to you, cry no more, and open my heart. So talented! I wonder why people never research The Bible and Christianity before giving their lives to the Lord so to speak. I thought Life by Stereo, had a secular sound and figured you would crossover, but not leave the faith. I thought about falling away, yet God keeps pursuing me including satan. I have nightmares often, but when I say, "The Blood of Jesus." the demons flee. After all these years, I just can't say God of the Bible doesn't exist. These are the days when we pray for the prodigals. I believe most will return again.
From your East St.Louis , I will always keep you in my prayers. My favorite concert is your methamorphisis concert. I wish you could have had a Life by stereo concert! Love you brother!!!!
Courtney, I love you bro and I appreciate your transparency on this video. I know you’ve been through so much over the past ten years or so; more than anyone could imagine (and I’m sure I don’t know the half). Just know that, wherever you stand, true family loves you regardless and true faith in Christ sees you as more than our favorite singer, producer, pastor, etc… True faith sees you as a human; broken yet beautiful, flawed yet strong like all the rest of us! I’m sure we’ll bump into each other at some point and I’ll tell you how much I love you to your face! (no Diddy 🤣) Praying for you Fam! 💪🏾❤️🙏🏾
Hey Courtney! Thanks so much for your openness and honesty as to your struggles. I'm also diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and know all too well the struggle with faith from a critical perspective. Through my years of investigation I collected my research into a small book on the historical evidence behind Jesus and the resurrection in particular. If you would love to have a nose through, just let me know, and I'd love to send it to you.
Nothing surprises me anymore. The Bible that he is denying is now fulfilling himself. Yes, I said “himself(John 1:1 explains why I said “himself) Understand that there will be a lot of people that will start to give up/fall away from the faith because it was told to us that this will happen in the last days. That’s how you know time is getting close to Christ return. If you believe in our Lord and Savior Jesus, please guard your mind, especially in this hour. All it takes is just one seed to be sowed(by hearing) to make you start to second guess and eventually deny what you believe. Always remember unbelief is just like Faith. If Faith comes by hearing, so does unbelief. Satan(the Devil) works just like God, just in the opposite. If we don’t think alike according to the Word of God, we can’t hangout/fellowship point blank period. How can 2 walk together except that be agreed? 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3 Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him, That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; All in All….if you are looking for an excuse to deny God in this hour, he himself will allow you to get several. He’s just weeding out people and they have no clue. How can I believe in a person that I have never seen, but yet I have so much hope? Once you receive his Holy Spirt, you will understand. Don’t just receive Salvation, receive the Holy Ghost. It’s no mistake you are reading this. Jesus Christ is real and he still loves you 😊🙏🏾
Mann, I know a lot of people are going to try to give you answers and I am sure there are going to be some good ones. I will say however that religion today does not represent God's heart in a lot of situations. I would only say continue to ask those questions. I too went through a period much like you are describing, and all roads led back to Christ. Just not in the way the culture taught. I started reading things for myself and seeing that Jesus didn't move like a lot of us move in the Christian faith. I pray you to continue to seek the truth. I will tell you even some of the things you have mentioned that you currently believe you will soon find lack evidence and require just as much faith as it took in Christianity as you continue to journey down that road. The Bible being taught without context and with selfish motives is dangerous and confusing. I will hold you in my prayers for sure. Love you, bro! You have been a blessing to me and I pray one day I can return the favor!
This hurts my heart so bad. I wore out your CD. I have a had my lowest of lows where I thought I couldn't hold on to Jesus but he holds on to us. He told me to stay strong that he's with me. I pray that you know Jesus is still with you now.
Happy for you! Even happier to see that there’s a growing community of thinkers like ourselves. My biggest hurdle in a relationship is that o can’t be with a Christian.. but everyone is a Christian lol. We need network of like-minded individuals so we can speak freely with each other
Let me say this. Courtney you have always been a bright star and will always be. This alone shows that you lead without trying. And I dare anyone to question your dopeness and your dedication to your fam. Humans are beautifully flawed. My prayer for you it to use it, create with it, face it nose to nose, find you in it all and then show them who the F you are. Period. See the thing is no matter what we are going through we are still from the same source of light. Seek your truth fam. Blessings to you, your wife and fam. T.
My one question when people rely on their logical analysis (which will always be limited), to either denounce OR ANNOUNCE Christianity: Have you ever received the Holy Spirt? And if so, how do you explain that? If you can logic your way in, you can logic your way out.
Being raised in the church most of us didn't get the chance to logic our way into the religion. Sure I "felt" what you would call the Holy Spirit, spoke in tongues did all that but in reality I was just in mass hysteria with a group of believers. There is no "Holy Spirit" its just emotions
@@afroskeptic speak for yourself. I experienced the holy spirit before I even really knew what it was. And that was after I "logiced" my way out the church I was raised into believing. You personally may have experienced hysteria. Not me.
JR, my guy, I am so proud of you! We spoke about you eventually doing this some time ago and it is so amazing to see you boldly standing on the truth. Life and love bro!
Keep seeking the truth bro. I believe Jesus is the truth so if you're looking for the truth I believe you'll end up truly finding Him. But the journey is yours to take...praying for you.
@@warrenchristianvision2314 the truth is the opposite of what you believe to be true.. Revelation 13:18 Let he who has wisdom calculate the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is six hundred and sixty-six." You worship the 666(beast).
"The just shall live by faith." Since Metamorphosis, I have closely followed your music and story. It seemed hard. I empathize. "Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him." Nothing makes sense apart from the person, life, and ministry of Jesus Christ. *** The just shall live by faith. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
Booboo its okay u denied Jesus and made your decision. He will deny you to the father when u see him on judgement day. No hard feelings, we all have free will and you made your decision
Brother this was sad to watch. you are completely lost. you need to study more. Hearing the things you are saying in this video its clear that you are not informed. reading the Bible and understanding the Bible are two completely different things. all of these questions have been answered and these “theories” have been debunked. Jesus is the Truth. He is God. the Bible is His Word. If you need someone to talk to you can ask me anything.
Some people need religion as therapy. Some people need religion as a moral compass. Some people need it simply as a confidence booster. Some use it to prop up whatever makeshift philosophy they've created while sitting in their comfort. At the end of the day, the brass tacks message to receive is to "do right by others and increase the goodness in the world". Whatever force leads us to this point in time, the only worthwhile purpose with our brief lives is to increase the quality and quantity of people that can do good things for even more people. Goodness is not as obscure or arbitrary as people make it out to be. So, do as much good in your life and others as possible. Religion or not. 💪🏾
There’s a brother named G Craig Lewis with EX Ministries that’s EXTREMELY knowledgeable in a lot of what you just mentioned. Check some of his messages out you may be intrigued by what you hear. He has a series called The Truth Behind Hip Hop that’s deep and backed up with A LOT of Facts. Take care of yourself 🙏🏾❤️ JR I truly loved your music and appreciate your gifts!
Courtney, I used to listen to you, heavy in 2011... literally I've gone through what you're going through being diagnosed with depression, ADHD, and I told them I'm not accepting the Bipolar diagnosed. I want to encourage you to PLEASE! Don't give up on the Bible. Absolutely leave and get as far away as you can from Christianity... but ALL of the answers are in BIBLE. Our perceptions were changed due to the cult you and I were once part of, Christianity. I hope you find your answers, and they are out there.... TRUST ME!
Not sure if this will have any impact or meaning but bro we know in part and prophesy in part...your heart and quest fr knowledge is definately in the right path, You wont believe this but I'm sure God is in this, A week or 2 i had a heavy nurge to look fr you and your work and couldn't find anything(been a fan of Both production and work, still is) I got soo restless lookin for you and your staff and ddnt knw why, coz i rarely get soo worked out, My heart kept on feeling an inexplicable feeling when i couldnt get nun and when this popped, i thanked the Lord Jesus, Hang in there, keep seeking the truth with a humble mind and some things only the Holy spirit can make them be, The work of the Holy Spirit in us, That one cant be explained by logic, when it hits it hits and you knw it, I love you bro and got you in my prayers still,
Search brother, search until your heart is full. I still jam Metamorphosis and Life By Stereo til this day. My children will know your music. You were head and shoulders above the rest in the CHH genre. I still don’t think they all really knew what they had in you. But I saw it! Praying you find the truth you seek. Ever since the Evangelical/Trump stuff I got sent on a wild ride myself and learned a lot from the Ancient Near Eastern understanding of religion and it has blown my mind. The stuff we get here in the West is of absolutely no comparison at all. And has done just as much damage as good in my opinion. I know I’m just a random person commenting on your video but I’d love to share my findings with you if you ever have any other questions that your friends/mentors/brothers couldn’t answer. And not even on an attempt to bring you back to faith, but just simply to answer the questions along your journey. Again, I’m a random stranger (except for meeting you at Sam O’s wedding), but I feel like I’d just want to help in any way that I can in return for the blessing your artistry has been on so many lives. Blessings 🙏🏽
@@notgnisae The Pagan Religion has twisted Christianity by promoting a false image of who you ignorantly call Jesus. Let’s look at how he is described in the Bible: Revelation 1:13: "And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle." Revelation 1:14: "His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire." Revelation 1:15: "And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters." They push the wrong name because there was no letter J until the 1500s. Proverbs 30:4: "Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?" They promote a Holy Trinity, which is not in the Bible. If they were the same person, explain this scripture: How is the Son meeting the Father? Daniel 7:9: "I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire." Daniel 7:13: "I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him." They support LGBTQ; they say the truth is for everyone and every nation, and that the Lord died for everyone. That’s a lie and not biblical; he died for his people only. Acts 5:30: "The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree." Acts 5:31: "Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins." They say we are saved, but that’s not true. The deliverance is a physical one for God's chosen people. Jeremiah 8:20: "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved." And they don’t break down any biblical prophecy. These pastors are sent to school to learn how to hypnotize the people. You can look this up, and this is why they have hurt this man. He left because Christianity does not make sense with current events or the struggles we face with our oppressors, who whitewash everything and steal our history, and you are keeping the lie going. 1 Maccabees 3:48: "And laid open the book of the law, wherein the heathen had sought to paint the likeness of their images."
The LORD is getting out of the Christianity Pagan Devil Ideology THESE PASTORS WILL BE JUDGED Jeremiah 23:1 Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD. Jeremiah 23:2 Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.
There is actually evidence for the things that you brought up fam. Even secular scholars would attest to some of the historical realities. Praying for you bro 🙏🏽
Just because there are some historically accurate details in the Bible, doesn't mean that god exists, Jesus was raised from the dead, or any of the miraculous stuff.
@@DouglasFresh8181 that’s a fair point. Even though I’ve been an agnostic/atheist for 20 years, I wouldn’t say there’s “no” evidence. I do say there’s “no good evidence.”
@CharlesPayet guess it depends on the definition of evidence. IMO there can't be evidence for things that didn't happen, it's impossible. Like if I didn't eat a cookie there can be no evidence that I ate a cookie.
@Courtney Orlando, Beloved, I hate to hear this. The early 2000's was lit with CM, Reach, etc. While you'll probably never be able to quantify the lives you touched through your music (Im one of them), its important to understand that I personally feel like you should've sat on this and wrestled with it a while longer. Why? Because this is going to have a negative impact especially on those who are still young in the Faith think Matthew 18:6. I won't condemn you because that's not the job of a disciple, but I will ask this, is that something you really want to deal with God on after this is over? Look to creation. The Universe which He measured with the span of His hand Isaiah 40:12. The World. The lives we have. We cannot control who lives or dies correct? He does, and whether we want to acknowledge his existence or not does not mean He will cease to exist. Consider this; truly give Him one year, just one, and if you still feel the same then cool, but don't throw Him away bro, I've been there, read Hebrews 6:4-6. Many of our walks as believers are eclipsed by Western culture false belief systems and errant traditions God never co-signed. That is NOT His fault. Every CEO of every company will have at least ONE bad employee, that does not reflect the moral values of that CEO. Please reconsider, I love you bro.
Interesting how all these artists from the CHH have deconstructed their beliefs because the world has shifted to extreme individualism and reasoning. It’s become so individualistic with the technology we hold in our hands. It seems that when I have my personal opinion which is not shared with someone with another opinion, tribalism is extracted from ideologies. He doesn’t like Trump for his own personal reasons but I think it’s obvious Trump handled his presidency with the greater good of the American people in mind. You don’t have to agree but we are given the individuality to have an opinion or biased view about anything and everything coming from our worldview. I don’t see black people or racism as the focus of what Trump is trying to accomplish, and this is coming from a person of color or the minority group. In fact, my peoples’ voice isn’t as loud as the black community but that’s okay. Contentment is great gain! However, there are a plethora of problems coming from the evangelistic approach to Christianity. For one, I think sola scriptura is debatable. In fact, sola scriptura seems to cause much confusion and division within the church because we live in this age of reasoning as we’re trying to figure everything out and have answers for everything. However, we cannot fully comprehend the ways of God. We have forsaken the sacraments and the gifts God gives His Bride, the church, and replaced it with music. I believe this is the reason many are leaving the faith because faith isn’t something tangible other than feeling it in the aroma of emotional highs in music. Jesus gave us his body and blood. That is the true test of faith - believing the bread and the wine as being the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus! We become participants with the Lord Jesus as we ingest his body and blood into our own bodies. Baptism has become symbolic or a profession of faith. That is not what Jesus taught it to be nor did the apostles view it this way. They believed it was water connected with the word to wash, restore, and regenerate someone to saving faith. Then, the Lord Jesus also gave us the church, and even a magisterium to operate under. However, since scripture is seen as our constitution, we don’t feel the need to be in favor or compelled to be under the authority of the church. So, yes, this man will leave the church and has made himself open to the enemy who has snatched him away. He wandered from the fold of God and his protection, and now his family is dismayed at the reality of his foolish reasoning. Hell, his own son is getting married and he can’t even see the significance of how this ceremony or sacrament demonstrates Jesus and the church. I pray and hope he realizes how his individualistic expression of reasoning can be a stumbling block for everyone around him, especially to the people he loves. That’s what’s very tragic about this whole episode. He’s pretty conceded only thinking of himself and is blinded by the color of his skin as the world turns a blind eye.
For Christ Jesus, I speak this, preach this In hopes that for some of y'all, I might reach this And elect Christ as your personal President Rule forever with no impeachment The world can't stand us, so what I can't stand when the world return to their own throw-up Meaning they claim Christ when their so-called life is nice Paper-chasing for Satan, then mad at God if He don't show up? He's not your personal genie He's not a dictator like Mussolini He's the Almighty Father Jehovah Rapha These streets, the beats The rap-styles don't mean nada... - Tre-Z aka Todd Bangz
good moral laws that were written before moses shows people know how to choose good behavior. God put it in us to know these things. Look at like this as well, a hip hop artist who never read the bible, never been to church, never heard a gospel serman can make a morally good song.
Another black atheist, love to see it! Welcome to life unburdened by delusions and contradictions. 9 year old me would always get hype when I saw a J.R feat on a lecrae, trip lee, flame etc tracklist haha Goodbye and Eyes Open will forever be bangers still lol
He’s a non-christian now. Nothing wrong with learning and growing with where you were and where you want to be. It’s serving him now so let’s continue to support him on his journey.
Sadly he doesn't seem mentally or spiritually well. Seems like his music career didn't take off as well as it could which caused him to get despondent and look elsewhere outside of God. Seeing him post Pro-Weed, Pro-Trans, Pro-etc. on his Instagram says it all.
@@AoD78RThat those things bother _you_ says it all. Also, it's incredibly uncharitable to question his motivations for leaving, as if he didn't spend years thinking about and reading about these issues before coming to a conclusion. This such a common Christian response to someone leaving, it's a well-known near cliche in ex-Christian communities. We've all had our motivations and character immediately questioned when we leave. It sucks, and it's judgemental, and it's unhelpful, and it's generally untrue.
I think you asked the right questions to the wrong people. There were many flood stories in antiquity. The Bible gave a different perspective . The Tower of Babel - that was a ziggurat, a common structure in the Mesopotamian world. And the Christ story , if you know the real story , it makes perfect sense, from OT to NT. Some just preach it wrong . This western “gospel” can’t save anyone . Get to know the Messiah, the only hope for this crazy world!
@courtneyorlandotv7599 Per your decision to walk away from Christianity (Jesus Christ), what if you’re wrong? Then what? Are you prepared to face the consequences of turning away from the only true God….?
Give yourself time. All your questions for the existence of Jesus have been more than adequately responded to. I’ll give you one that we can readily show to be weak. The Kemet negative confessions- “I have not uttered lies” but God says…am I a man that I would lie?” He already told us we have all lied and to deny it would be a lie. The Bible can be more than adequately intellectually proven. Everything you brought up has been more than adequately answered. Listen to PHD debates …that’s the easiest way…listen to the people on your the side of your new beliefs then listen to the defenders of the Biblical narrative. It’s night and day. The Bible is easily proven. Going back to the negative confessions those are attempts by men to claim self righteousness upon themselves whereas the 10 commandments are an indictment that we all fall short and need Jesus brother. You’ll be fine.
Had all the same questions. Many of them, you just haven’t researched well, others you just don’t like. We all have questions, but your demand for answers-or-else, mentality is immature. No one has all the answers…right now. Jesus is who he said he is, and proved it. You haven’t proved anything.
Just based on the description, this looks to be a sad video. You were so talented as J.R., the most creative and fresh hip-hop artist in Christian music hands-down. It always seemed like you were going through some issues after your music really wasn't being released and then how it seemed like the sinful world was creeping in with the artists you were working with. And now seeing "deconversion" makes me very sad if it's you no longer being a Christian. Another casualty that the devil won over. I hope I'm wrong. But if I'm not, you're only going to fade into obscurity even more and even less people will watch your videos and listen to your content.
Thank goodness his life doesn’t depend on your faith. Christians kill me. Quick to condemn another instead of pray for a brotha. Do you not remember Jobe? I’m never worried about the person who shares his truth. I worry about the people like you who hide what they do.
@@kulatheproducer745 “Be helpful to all who may have doubts. Rescue any who need to be saved, as you would rescue someone from a fire. Then with fear in your own hearts, have mercy on everyone who needs it. But hate even the clothes of those who have been made dirty by their filthy deeds.” Jude 1:22-23 CEV
Man, I respect what you did. You educated yourself. One you see it, you can’t unsee it. Some of the things that you questioned was some of my questions. All I wanted to see was evidence for said claims, but they fell flat. Pastors told me you have to believe it by faith, I said, na I’m good. Y’all can have this!!! Glad you made it out, journey well.
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The Scriptures say the apostles went around preaching the word everywhere and God CONFIRMING the word through signs and wonders. You know the word but now you need to experience it for yourself to know it is true. Maybe find a church that doesn’t just preach the word but lays hands on people and heals the sick, casts out demons, prophesies. Somewhere you can get hands laid on and be baptized with the Holy Spirit and see for yourself whether this Holy Spirit spoken of in the Bible which Jesus told us about is true or not. And you will find my brother that it’s all true praise God. Scripturally that’s your confirmation not anything not any type of ‘education’ nope. God’s power is at work today and everyday and if the gospel wasn’t true then how could that be. Hope you find Him bro🙏🏾❤
@@tinashe_cfd Try again
Respect what you did and I appreciate you for opening up and sharing your experience conversations like these are important it’s sad that when you question anything it is looked down upon by people who probably have the same questions and every answer is to have faith because that’s probably what someone told them but in reality everyone is just repeating what someone told them wether it was passed down verbally or written!
@@Charieldeleon 🎯
Fell into this exact boat in 2015 (3 years into my marriage). As a previous pastor myself, your words and speculations resonate hard with me. I also called myself an agnostic.
Praying God reveals himself to you as He did for me though.
I once opened up a show for you in Kansas City, at a church called Christian fellowship. You had a big impact on me with your music in Life By Stereo, and even lent me your phone number at the time.
Much love for you Courtney. God bless you.
Hey Courtney, first off, I’m genuinely glad to hear you’re doing well, especially with your mental health. I’m sure the language of those diagnoses probably helped; it did for me when I was diagnosed with onset PTSD. I also appreciate you sharing your journey and the questions that led you away from faith. I’m so bummed that folks didn’t have answers for you when you needed them.
I’m glad your white friends told you they don’t support police brutality. Many of us, myself included, have also consistently spoken out against it. As for Trump, while some fringe Christians saw him as 'God's man,' most who voted for him did so because they viewed him as the 'lesser of two evils.' That’s debatable, but it's different from the narrative often portrayed. In reality, 40% of white evangelicals didn’t vote at all, and only about 48% actually voted for Trump, showing a much more nuanced picture than the '80% of evangelicals' narrative.
Now, let’s address the other concerns:
1. The Creation Story: Many Christians see Genesis as a narrative about God, humanity, and our brokenness rather than a scientific account, which is why interpretations vary within the faith.
2. God 'Sanctioning' Rape, Torture, and Slavery: These Old Testament passages are descriptive, not endorsements. They reflect the harsh realities of ancient times, and the Bible progressively reveals God’s heart for justice, mercy, and compassion, which culminates in Jesus.
3. Suffering and Evil: The central message of Christianity is that God entered our suffering through Jesus. The cross stands as the ultimate example of God taking on pain and injustice, offering hope and redemption.
4. Historical Proof of Biblical Events: There are substantial findings, like the Tel Dan Stele discovered in 1993 that mentions the 'House of David,' supporting key events and figures. Dismissing them holds the Bible to an unrealistic standard compared to other ancient history.
5. Church History and Corruption: Yes, history is messy, but Jesus’ teachings on love, humility, and justice remain uncorrupted. Every human institution has flaws, and the actions of imperfect people don’t negate the purity of Christ’s message.
6. The 42 Laws of Ma'at: These Egyptian principles predate the Bible, but as Romans 2 states, even those without the written law have a law unto themselves, showing that God’s moral truth is evident across different cultures.
7. The Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus is one of the best-supported events in ancient history, even acknowledged by many skeptical scholars. Here are four widely agreed-upon facts: (1) Jesus died by crucifixion, (2) His tomb was found empty, (3) His disciples genuinely believed they saw Him alive, and (4) The rapid growth of Christianity, despite persecution, was fueled by this belief. The transformation of Paul, a former persecutor, and James, Jesus' skeptical brother, into bold leaders of the early Church, adds weight to the claim. They wouldn't have risked everything for what they knew to be false.
I know you’ve moved on, but I hope this provides some of the answers you didn’t get before. I’m always here if you want to continue the conversation.
❤
Beautifully laid out.
The moment I stop taking parts in the bible (especially the creation account) literally, is where all the cards fall. Did sin enter the world literally through Adam? Why are there human-like species the existed before homosapiens (Adam & Eve) on the fossil record? I think mentioning that there are various interpretations of the creation account in Christianity doesn’t do much for a truth seeker.
@@timlewis9650but one can argue it was were never meant to be taken hyper literally. Whether that’s an old earth view, the gap theory, or theistic evolution. Christians have historically held a wide range of views. Taken genesis hyper literally is an option but it’s not the only option. Nor does it hold to church history or the poetic nature of the first few chapter. To answer your question, yes Adam and Eve were literal people and yes sin (as in transgression against God’s word) entered through Adam. But that doesn’t mean a literal 6 days of creation is cornerstone to the faith 😂😂😂 assuming it is, is a relatively modern option. Right along with the dispensational rapture.
Thank you for this, Ruslan 🌼
I deconstructed from Christianity after believing in it for most of my life. Along the way, I discovered numerous historical, psychological, and philosophical issues with the religion. Deconstructing wasn’t easy, but I’ve never felt freer since making this choice, and I don’t regret it for a moment.
Don’t let Christians gaslight you into believing you’re lost or broken. You are capable of making your own decisions, and I know how hard this journey can be. Trust yourself-you’re finding your own path, and that’s something to be proud of.
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Greetings from East St. Louis! So happy to see dear brothers like you extracting themselves from totalizing lie we have been given. It is hard when the entire U.S. culture (& so much of Black culture) supports it. [insert matrix metaphor]😂I can’t wait to see what you make artistically going forward. ❤
Hey Courtney, thank you for sharing where you are, I know making this video must have been tough to do. I wish you the best in your journey.
I’m going to be honest, I’m trying to make it to the end of your video but… I keep hearing you trying to find reasoning with how the Church and main stream Christians operate and how that coincides with world tragedies. You’ll never be able to make sense of that because all of that deals with humans and their desires. So… the real question is does God exist? And so you need to ask yourself, have you ever experienced Him? When did you decide Christianity was the way for you? Most Christians, even those that were born into it have experienced God themselves where from that experience no one can convince them He doesn’t exist. If you don’t know or have that then this is why you are where you are. History and science essentially prove that God exists and highlight the events of the Bible. I’m sorry you’ve been traumatized and your illness further convolutes your quest for truth but I think you should reflect back on how you knew God existed then or did you ever believe.
Yup. I almost did the same thing. But when you peel the fruit back layer by layer the root of all my frustration was HUMAN PERFORMANce. That's why I thank God that my hope is in Jesus not mortal imperfect humans. 😊
This was very well said.
Man, it's really heartbreaking to see the number of folks who keep falling from the faith increase. I don't even know what to say, but will surely pray. God loves you so so much, bro 💕
Congrats on this new stretch of your journey! I've been here for 20 years and still learning. It is wonderful to experience the wide world which has so much to teach you and to venture unafraid to the heights of your body and mind. I wish you the best!
Bro, it’s absolutely insane that I went down almost the exact same path. For me I started to see that dichotomy with the Stockley case in 2017. And the earnest studying of my faith started to bring me to conclusions that people around me were uncomfortable with. But when one theological pillar falls, so do the rest, like a house of cards. But as you said I’m the exact same person I always was, I just had to reintroduce me to myself. I’m so glad to hear you are doing well. I appreciate you for taking time out to show me some of the things you knew musically. ✊🏽
Miss you at the Journey. I’m believing for your healing in all aspects.
😊
Your spiritual journey is just that….yours. It’s not surprising that many have responded with “you’re wrong” and “you’re going to return.” Thus, not respecting your decision. Trust your soul because it’s not steering you wrong. Also, once you start peeling back the layers of it all, it’s hard to return to what was. Continue to take care of yourself (mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually). Peace be the journey 🕊️❤️
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Lot of ppl not gone understand this! I went thru the exact same thing during the stuff that happened in 2020 and the aftermath. Seeing ppl who I went to church with and served with, say insane things on Facebook regarding the plight of black people was eye opening. Keep praying and seeking, sir
I pray for you, J.R. God doesn't leave us. We leave him. Jesus is the way the truth life.
I know a young man that has the confidence, power and resilience to make it through this time of trial. Don't underestimate yourself, you'll get through this. It makes my heart ache to hear the sadness in your voice. Church politics will steal your joy. I know that for a fact. God is good and you know that. This will pass. Remember all you've been through and are still here. Please don't despair and I pray for your healing. Love you much
@deborahsmith-wommack1442 Thank you ma 😊
The Lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.
Exodus 14:14 (NLT) (keep praying & believing)
JR! What's good My G, this is Azriel (from KC). Just watched and wanted to tell you I appreciate your courage for sharing your heart and expressing the multitude of struggles you've been enduring. Although we land on different sides of the Christian label, please know and understand there's no love lost at all on my end. You're my brother always. I share similar mental illness struggles and stand in solidarity with you brother. I have some of the same concerns and questions per the spectrum of culture, faith, religion, and society especially through the nuanced lens of a person of color. I hear your heart my G. I hear the pain and resolution as well in your voice. We're on this journey in life and various seasons and struggles await us all yet, with breath in our lungs on this side of eternity, we're still on that journey. I love you My G, always and forever. Keeping you lifted. My #'s the same if you ever need to reach out, process, or just talk as men, husbands, dads, in this journey.
AZRIEL I STILL BUMP YPUR CD DAWG
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Bro, youve always kept it 💯 with us. I appreciate your transparency. Its been a minute since we've spoke. Just want to say thank you for helping me build character, musicianship and extending your platform to me over the years. I love you brother, and i hope i see you soon! Hope all is well with the wife and kids too.
@@andrewbethany2840 Drew!!! Thank you brother, it’s been one hell of a ride and I’m glad to have shared it with you and others. Love you too! 🖤💪🏾
Your honest is truly refreshing. You didn’t have to share these realities-tender and beautiful-with us but I’m grateful you did. With love 💪🏾
@@michael_x252 💯💪🏾
THANK YOU, COURTNEY, FOR WHAT YOU GAVE TO THE CHH COMMUNITY AND BELIEVERS WORLDWIDE FOR YEARS AND YEARS!!! THANK YOU FOR SUCH A GRACIOUS ANNOUNCEMENT! THANK YOU!!
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You did a song with Swift called Smile that solidified CHH for me and you were my absolute favorite artist. I’ll be praying so deeply for you that even though you may have let go of Jesus, He won’t let go of you. Leaves the 99 for the 1.
To this day, I still listen to Life by Stereo on a regular basis. Outside of that, I’ve enjoyed all the music you’ve come out with. Your talents and music genius is crazy man. It’s all love over here as you are going through your journey and I wish you much peace. Can’t wait to hear what’s next and please keep us up to date on live performances. Salute
Thank you for your authenticity. My family has so much love for you and your family. Our love for you will continue. Real love is not phased by where your journey is taking you; it is not phased by what you decided.
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This breaks my heart. It is indeed a recurring theme these days in the community and it bothers me to my core. However, i respect your new convictions. I pray for your mental health. And most importantly, I acknowledge your pain. You are more loved than you will ever know by a God who intricately made you. Injured brain and all ❤️. I know you don't believe that anymore. But I trust that in His timing, you will rediscover it. Thank you for your contributions to CHH and music as a whole. Be well brother.
Please read!!!
When I was 19hears old turning 20 something happened to me.
I lived in Atlanta my days then looked like chilling in the hood with my friends,I would work and as soon as I get off work we smoke weed ,drink,party and repeat daily for years.
I lived at home with my Dad and step mom.
One day one of my friends randomly popped a pill and that was my first time seeing that and I took one as well. I was hooked just like that on ecstasy.
Around this time my girl friend got pregnant and this is where things started to take a turn.
One day I was in my room just kinda bored and I was flipping through the channels and I saw Debo(yes the actor from Friday) he was on some channel talking so I stopped and listened.
He started talking about Jesus,he went on to say you young men smoking weed and living in sin need to stop and that Jesus loves you… etc I felt like he was talking directly to me😂😂😂.
Few days went by and I picked up my Bible and flipped to the back and just looking at words and I read the definition of a sinner(it said wrong doing,evil etc and that you sin against God. Then I read another word it said repent:to ask for forgiveness and turn to God.
Reading that speed a seed.
Maybe a month after that,I got fired from my job(long story there)
At the same time my girl pregnant,I got fired and then my step mom kicked me out the house because I was just smoking weed ,leaving beer cans around and not contributing to anything.
I found myself with a bag of clothes sleeping behind a house in my neighborhood.
That night I was depressed and felt lowwwe that night I felt a peace over me like all will be well.
BIG EVENT!!!
After that I moved to a city where my sister lived,that night I stayed in a motel. I remember “rolling on a bean” which is I popped pills and was high that night.
During that night I remember something happened to me,I felt there was a war for my soul taking place,I felt an impression (a voice saying I’ll give you money,fame and everything you want,then I heard a small voice said “I LOVE YOU” that’s all God said this was the first time I heard Him and I knew immediately it was Him and I made a move toward Him.
After that I moved in with my sister and I started to read the Bible then one day I was in my room and I started crying out to God,asking Him to forgive me for my wrongs because I felt sorrow and bad about my actions.
I started just crying out for what felt like hours man. On my knees I started feeling my heart become lighter,in that moment I felt my soul lift out of a dark pit. I knew something happened but I didn’t have words for it.
After crying and pouring out so much I fell asleep.
Then something woke me up. I couldn’t move guys,this presence filled me and I was scared then a peace and sudden calm came over me.
I felt a heat like fire. Not being in church I didn’t have a word for it. Now I know it was the Holy Spirit and I was slain right then.
I remember crying man and went down stairs and telling my sister and her boyfriend “God is real,God is real” my sister started crying.
After that over the next few months after work I woukd literally lock myself in my room and fed on the word of God. Daily I started walking and talking with Jesus. I started telling co workers about Jesus.
I didn’t go to church,I wasn’t in church at first.
Much like JR I started seeking the TRUTH!!!
I found it,my faith started to grow,my knowledge started to grow,my hunger for Jesus started to grow,I started to worship through music deeply. Every day all I thought about was JESUS.
Then I got into a local church.
Long story short God gave me gifts and talents. I started picking up the guitar and started to learn and sing songs.
As that grew I would eventually lead worship at open mics,at church etc.
I stared to rap about Jesus thought he music etc.
Until now I do that.
I’ve messed up and sinned and called short since then but I always always seek God out and talk to Him.
This video is one of the scariest videos I’ve watched because of what o believe is true and I know it’s true then essentially what you’ve done is sealed your fate in Hell😢 by denying Jesus as lord and savior but there is hope because you’re still alive and can still repent and turn back to God.
Bro I listen to your music and was a big fan,you were one of my favorite artist frfr. That’s why I shared this looong story😂😂😂. Love you my brother. Ain’t nothing changed I’ll still check out your music when you drop I just pray you come back Home JR.
Love you man. Been a fan for a minute. Praying that God reveals himself to you like never before. I choose to believe that your glass is half full, rather than half empty.
2 Timothy 2:13 ESV
If we are faithless, he remains faithful.
🙏🏽💪🏽
This ❤
Christianity can be summed up in one word brother, Humility.
I pray He softens your heart and you're able to come back to him.
What’s crazzzy is I left religion almost 20 years ago…but I’ve been rocking the “METAMORPHOSIS” Album lately..My Soul Still Vibes to this..Great music…Still positive Energy💯💣🔥🙌
🖤
I. FEEL. YOU! I no longer subscribe to Western Christianity, neither do I call myself Christian based on the truth my spiritual journey has revealed to me.
My travels around the world especially to the Middle East and West African nations opened my eyes to so much and caused me to delve into so much studying of history, cultures, traditions and non-Christian schools of thought. Bro, it's been an emotional, mental and spiritual rollercoaster ever since! Howbeit, my belief in Yahushuah HaMashiach is totally by personal spiritual revelation and NOT by the Bible or religion or tradition. I have encountered YHWH. Western religion did not give me that. The Holy Spirit revealed Herself to me and the truth and has been my guide on this journey.
Your music was a blessing to me in a part of my journey where I was seeking to get closer to YAH. It helped. ❤ I thank YAH for the light of your gift and your journey.
My prayer is that your journey brings you to a suopernatural encounter with YAH that will heal you and deliver you completely from the impositions, manipulations and brainwashing of Imperialsitic, Eurocentic Western Religion and Western Intellectualism. It's all dead. There is no Spirit in it. There is no life. That's why the West looks the way it does and leaves carnage and destruction everywhere it touches.
Our African and indigenous ancestors understood and honored YAH/the great Spirit/the Creator, the spiritual part of our existence and the Earth though many of our people are lost and have strayed away as well. I pray you get the opportunity to connect to that truth and that part of your identity.
Long live truth and the seekers of it! Blessings and revelations to you, Courtney! 🙂🙏🏼💫
Healing will take time and I am so glad you are taking the time to be honest with yourself and not just sweeping everything under the rug of Jesus. Constantly taking responsibility for your healing and growth. Kepp is the good work. The work is never ending.
😊🎯
You're loved bro❤
I know I'm another comment in a vast sea of conversations. I normally wouldn't type this, but I just felt led to.
God loves you, I don’t know you, but He does and because of that, there's deep love for you as well.
I pray you get through everything you're in, health wise, emotionally, and spiritually in Jesus name
I pray from the bottom of my heart that you find Joy in Jesus again
❤
Been blessed by your life and ministry since Metamorphosis. Chopped it up with you briefly at an event at Covenant Theological Seminary in Creve Cour when I was a student there. When it's all said and done the intellectual arguments for faith have their place, but ultimately that old adage old church folks use to say about knowing the Lord rings true. His hand has been and still on your life. In your testimony. Blessings 🙏🏿
Have mercy on him Lord! Have mercy! Help him like you helped me! In Jesus name!
"What I read in the scriptures... in the face of objective reality, don't hold water" Agreed 🤝🏾
I’m🙏🏾4 you and your Family God knows the heart of man. He created you, You’ve been dealing with a lot and that’s normal and you’re still here, but not by your power. I feel your pain and it is very valid so I believe you come on through it all and get the answers you can’t fathom in your mind. 🙏🏾up I know He hears me. Your name shall ring @ the throne where Jesus sits making intercession day and night✌🏾
I love Metamorphosis. Definitely one of my favorite albums and a classic. Funny, one of the songs played in my head yesterday and I just heard about your deconversion today. I can't forget closer to you, cry no more, and open my heart. So talented! I wonder why people never research The Bible and Christianity before giving their lives to the Lord so to speak. I thought Life by Stereo, had a secular sound and figured you would crossover, but not leave the faith. I thought about falling away, yet God keeps pursuing me including satan. I have nightmares often, but when I say, "The Blood of Jesus." the demons flee. After all these years, I just can't say God of the Bible doesn't exist. These are the days when we pray for the prodigals. I believe most will return again.
@@srobinson2855 ❤️❤️❤️
@courtneyorlandotv7599 ❤️❤️❤️
From your East St.Louis , I will always keep you in my prayers. My favorite concert is your methamorphisis concert. I wish you could have had a Life by stereo concert! Love you brother!!!!
😊😊😊
🤔
Courtney, I love you bro and I appreciate your transparency on this video. I know you’ve been through so much over the past ten years or so; more than anyone could imagine (and I’m sure I don’t know the half).
Just know that, wherever you stand, true family loves you regardless and true faith in Christ sees you as more than our favorite singer, producer, pastor, etc… True faith sees you as a human; broken yet beautiful, flawed yet strong like all the rest of us!
I’m sure we’ll bump into each other at some point and I’ll tell you how much I love you to your face! (no Diddy 🤣)
Praying for you Fam! 💪🏾❤️🙏🏾
Hey Courtney! Thanks so much for your openness and honesty as to your struggles. I'm also diagnosed with bipolar disorder, and know all too well the struggle with faith from a critical perspective. Through my years of investigation I collected my research into a small book on the historical evidence behind Jesus and the resurrection in particular. If you would love to have a nose through, just let me know, and I'd love to send it to you.
Nothing surprises me anymore. The Bible that he is denying is now fulfilling himself. Yes, I said “himself(John 1:1 explains why I said “himself) Understand that there will be a lot of people that will start to give up/fall away from the faith because it was told to us that this will happen in the last days. That’s how you know time is getting close to Christ return. If you believe in our Lord and Savior Jesus, please guard your mind, especially in this hour. All it takes is just one seed to be sowed(by hearing) to make you start to second guess and eventually deny what you believe. Always remember unbelief is just like Faith. If Faith comes by hearing, so does unbelief. Satan(the Devil) works just like God, just in the opposite. If we don’t think alike according to the Word of God, we can’t hangout/fellowship point blank period. How can 2 walk together except that be agreed?
2 Thessalonians 2:1-3
Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,
That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.
Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;
All in All….if you are looking for an excuse to deny God in this hour, he himself will allow you to get several. He’s just weeding out people and they have no clue. How can I believe in a person that I have never seen, but yet I have so much hope? Once you receive his Holy Spirt, you will understand. Don’t just receive Salvation, receive the Holy Ghost.
It’s no mistake you are reading this. Jesus Christ is real and he still loves you 😊🙏🏾
Amen & Amen 🙏🏾
Mann, I know a lot of people are going to try to give you answers and I am sure there are going to be some good ones. I will say however that religion today does not represent God's heart in a lot of situations. I would only say continue to ask those questions. I too went through a period much like you are describing, and all roads led back to Christ. Just not in the way the culture taught. I started reading things for myself and seeing that Jesus didn't move like a lot of us move in the Christian faith. I pray you to continue to seek the truth. I will tell you even some of the things you have mentioned that you currently believe you will soon find lack evidence and require just as much faith as it took in Christianity as you continue to journey down that road. The Bible being taught without context and with selfish motives is dangerous and confusing. I will hold you in my prayers for sure. Love you, bro! You have been a blessing to me and I pray one day I can return the favor!
Man this one hurts alil because man your work got me thru alot especially as a young believer. From J.R to Courtney Orlando.😢 much love
This hurts my heart so bad. I wore out your CD. I have a had my lowest of lows where I thought I couldn't hold on to Jesus but he holds on to us. He told me to stay strong that he's with me. I pray that you know Jesus is still with you now.
Mr Orlando Bless Up King....... You are in my prayers.
🦾
He gets to it at the 25:38 mark
Happy for you! Even happier to see that there’s a growing community of thinkers like ourselves. My biggest hurdle in a relationship is that o can’t be with a Christian.. but everyone is a Christian lol. We need network of like-minded individuals so we can speak freely with each other
Let me say this. Courtney you have always been a bright star and will always be. This alone shows that you lead without trying. And I dare anyone to question your dopeness and your dedication to your fam. Humans are beautifully flawed. My prayer for you it to use it, create with it, face it nose to nose, find you in it all and then show them who the F you are. Period.
See the thing is no matter what we are going through we are still from the same source of light. Seek your truth fam. Blessings to you, your wife and fam. T.
😂❤💯
My one question when people rely on their logical analysis (which will always be limited), to either denounce OR ANNOUNCE Christianity:
Have you ever received the Holy Spirt? And if so, how do you explain that?
If you can logic your way in, you can logic your way out.
Being raised in the church most of us didn't get the chance to logic our way into the religion. Sure I "felt" what you would call the Holy Spirit, spoke in tongues did all that but in reality I was just in mass hysteria with a group of believers. There is no "Holy Spirit" its just emotions
@@afroskeptic speak for yourself. I experienced the holy spirit before I even really knew what it was. And that was after I "logiced" my way out the church I was raised into believing. You personally may have experienced hysteria. Not me.
You’re literally asking a question so subjective that the answer doesn’t matter. Your religion doesn’t even agree on what having the holy spirit is.
@@timlewis9650 not really. You're just complicating the question. You either think you've received it or you don't. Or you're unsure
I can also think it’s silly and false. So who’s thought is true?
It starts at 16:33
Bless you
JR, my guy, I am so proud of you! We spoke about you eventually doing this some time ago and it is so amazing to see you boldly standing on the truth. Life and love bro!
Definitely have been inspired by your music. Definitely will keep up with you through your journey. Praying for you.
Keep seeking the truth bro. I believe Jesus is the truth so if you're looking for the truth I believe you'll end up truly finding Him. But the journey is yours to take...praying for you.
Regardless of the sin of sinners. Jesus is the way, truth, and the life.
Well I disagree
@@timlewis9650 that is well within your right
One day the truth will be revealed. This ain’t it tho bro
@@89thebestever what’s the truth ?
@@warrenchristianvision2314 the truth is the opposite of what you believe to be true..
Revelation 13:18
Let he who has wisdom calculate the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is six hundred and sixty-six."
You worship the 666(beast).
Salute 🫡 for your courage and boldness for following the evidence where it leads 👏🏾 👏🏾 👏🏾 Love you bro 💪🏾
🦾🦾🦾🦾🦾
"The just shall live by faith."
Since Metamorphosis, I have closely followed your music and story. It seemed hard. I empathize.
"Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise Him."
Nothing makes sense apart from the person, life, and ministry of Jesus Christ.
***
The just shall live by faith.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
I relate to every single word. Wishing you the best 🙏🏾
Booboo its okay u denied Jesus and made your decision. He will deny you to the father when u see him on judgement day. No hard feelings, we all have free will and you made your decision
Salute to you bro
🙏
Brother this was sad to watch. you are completely lost. you need to study more. Hearing the things you are saying in this video its clear that you are not informed. reading the Bible and understanding the Bible are two completely different things. all of these questions have been answered and these “theories” have been debunked. Jesus is the Truth. He is God. the Bible is His Word. If you need someone to talk to you can ask me anything.
Parable of the sower. Word to the wise, listen CLOSELY to where his really problem started.
Link.
Some people need religion as therapy. Some people need religion as a moral compass. Some people need it simply as a confidence booster. Some use it to prop up whatever makeshift philosophy they've created while sitting in their comfort.
At the end of the day, the brass tacks message to receive is to "do right by others and increase the goodness in the world".
Whatever force leads us to this point in time, the only worthwhile purpose with our brief lives is to increase the quality and quantity of people that can do good things for even more people.
Goodness is not as obscure or arbitrary as people make it out to be. So, do as much good in your life and others as possible. Religion or not. 💪🏾
🎯
Love you bro, you still big bro to me man.
🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
There’s a brother named G Craig Lewis with EX Ministries that’s EXTREMELY knowledgeable in a lot of what you just mentioned. Check some of his messages out you may be intrigued by what you hear. He has a series called The Truth Behind Hip Hop that’s deep and backed up with A LOT of Facts. Take care of yourself 🙏🏾❤️ JR I truly loved your music and appreciate your gifts!
Trust me when I say he’s well aware of who he is.
@@Jquarles1973 I figured he might. 🥹
Salute to you King. Welcome to The Path...
Then you never were off the faith. The great falling away. There is no more sacrifice for you. God have mercy on you.
You need to repent for your heart posture.
15:35-39 😢 that part!
I'm happy for u fam 💯.
Love you cuzzo!
I so relate to you J
What does your former stage name J.R. stand for?
what up bro
Johnny Red, lol.
@@HHH_Hymnal Hey friend 👋🏽.
@@courtneyorlandotv7599 Oh Ok cool. God Bless!
Courtney, I used to listen to you, heavy in 2011... literally I've gone through what you're going through being diagnosed with depression, ADHD, and I told them I'm not accepting the Bipolar diagnosed. I want to encourage you to PLEASE! Don't give up on the Bible. Absolutely leave and get as far away as you can from Christianity... but ALL of the answers are in BIBLE. Our perceptions were changed due to the cult you and I were once part of, Christianity. I hope you find your answers, and they are out there.... TRUST ME!
@@alwaysbroke5372 😊
Not sure if this will have any impact or meaning but bro we know in part and prophesy in part...your heart and quest fr knowledge is definately in the right path,
You wont believe this but I'm sure God is in this,
A week or 2 i had a heavy nurge to look fr you and your work and couldn't find anything(been a fan of Both production and work, still is)
I got soo restless lookin for you and your staff and ddnt knw why, coz i rarely get soo worked out,
My heart kept on feeling an inexplicable feeling when i couldnt get nun and when this popped, i thanked the Lord Jesus,
Hang in there, keep seeking the truth with a humble mind and some things only the Holy spirit can make them be,
The work of the Holy Spirit in us,
That one cant be explained by logic, when it hits it hits and you knw it,
I love you bro and got you in my prayers still,
How do i connect with you … I want to share my story.
Search brother, search until your heart is full. I still jam Metamorphosis and Life By Stereo til this day. My children will know your music. You were head and shoulders above the rest in the CHH genre. I still don’t think they all really knew what they had in you. But I saw it!
Praying you find the truth you seek. Ever since the Evangelical/Trump stuff I got sent on a wild ride myself and learned a lot from the Ancient Near Eastern understanding of religion and it has blown my mind. The stuff we get here in the West is of absolutely no comparison at all. And has done just as much damage as good in my opinion.
I know I’m just a random person commenting on your video but I’d love to share my findings with you if you ever have any other questions that your friends/mentors/brothers couldn’t answer. And not even on an attempt to bring you back to faith, but just simply to answer the questions along your journey. Again, I’m a random stranger (except for meeting you at Sam O’s wedding), but I feel like I’d just want to help in any way that I can in return for the blessing your artistry has been on so many lives.
Blessings 🙏🏽
Also the reason why it seem confusing is because you are the Israelites of the Bible Christianity has twisted everything
Can you please elaborate on that? Christianity twisted what exactly?
@@notgnisae The Pagan Religion has twisted Christianity by promoting a false image of who you ignorantly call Jesus. Let’s look at how he is described in the Bible:
Revelation 1:13: "And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle."
Revelation 1:14: "His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire."
Revelation 1:15: "And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters."
They push the wrong name because there was no letter J until the 1500s.
Proverbs 30:4: "Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? Who hath gathered the wind in his fists? Who hath bound the waters in a garment? Who hath established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell?"
They promote a Holy Trinity, which is not in the Bible. If they were the same person, explain this scripture: How is the Son meeting the Father?
Daniel 7:9: "I beheld till the thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne was like the fiery flame, and his wheels as burning fire."
Daniel 7:13: "I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him."
They support LGBTQ; they say the truth is for everyone and every nation, and that the Lord died for everyone. That’s a lie and not biblical; he died for his people only.
Acts 5:30: "The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree."
Acts 5:31: "Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins."
They say we are saved, but that’s not true. The deliverance is a physical one for God's chosen people.
Jeremiah 8:20: "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved."
And they don’t break down any biblical prophecy. These pastors are sent to school to learn how to hypnotize the people. You can look this up, and this is why they have hurt this man. He left because Christianity does not make sense with current events or the struggles we face with our oppressors, who whitewash everything and steal our history, and you are keeping the lie going.
1 Maccabees 3:48: "And laid open the book of the law, wherein the heathen had sought to paint the likeness of their images."
All love bro. 🤲🏽
The LORD is getting out of the Christianity Pagan Devil Ideology THESE PASTORS WILL BE JUDGED
Jeremiah 23:1 Woe be unto the pastors that destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.
Jeremiah 23:2 Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the pastors that feed my people; Ye have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.
Seems it was always doubt.
There is actually evidence for the things that you brought up fam. Even secular scholars would attest to some of the historical realities. Praying for you bro 🙏🏽
Just because there are some historically accurate details in the Bible, doesn't mean that god exists, Jesus was raised from the dead, or any of the miraculous stuff.
@CharlesPayet I just responded to the statement he made about there being "absolutely no evidence", but go off 👍🏽.
@@DouglasFresh8181 that’s a fair point. Even though I’ve been an agnostic/atheist for 20 years, I wouldn’t say there’s “no” evidence. I do say there’s “no good evidence.”
@CharlesPayet guess it depends on the definition of evidence. IMO there can't be evidence for things that didn't happen, it's impossible. Like if I didn't eat a cookie there can be no evidence that I ate a cookie.
@thetruest7497 Yet, if there's crumbs and cookie residue on your lips then...
@Courtney Orlando, Beloved, I hate to hear this. The early 2000's was lit with CM, Reach, etc. While you'll probably never be able to quantify the lives you touched through your music (Im one of them), its important to understand that I personally feel like you should've sat on this and wrestled with it a while longer. Why? Because this is going to have a negative impact especially on those who are still young in the Faith think Matthew 18:6. I won't condemn you because that's not the job of a disciple, but I will ask this, is that something you really want to deal with God on after this is over? Look to creation. The Universe which He measured with the span of His hand Isaiah 40:12. The World. The lives we have. We cannot control who lives or dies correct? He does, and whether we want to acknowledge his existence or not does not mean He will cease to exist. Consider this; truly give Him one year, just one, and if you still feel the same then cool, but don't throw Him away bro, I've been there, read Hebrews 6:4-6. Many of our walks as believers are eclipsed by Western culture false belief systems and errant traditions God never co-signed. That is NOT His fault. Every CEO of every company will have at least ONE bad employee, that does not reflect the moral values of that CEO. Please reconsider, I love you bro.
Interesting how all these artists from the CHH have deconstructed their beliefs because the world has shifted to extreme individualism and reasoning. It’s become so individualistic with the technology we hold in our hands. It seems that when I have my personal opinion which is not shared with someone with another opinion, tribalism is extracted from ideologies. He doesn’t like Trump for his own personal reasons but I think it’s obvious Trump handled his presidency with the greater good of the American people in mind. You don’t have to agree but we are given the individuality to have an opinion or biased view about anything and everything coming from our worldview. I don’t see black people or racism as the focus of what Trump is trying to accomplish, and this is coming from a person of color or the minority group. In fact, my peoples’ voice isn’t as loud as the black community but that’s okay. Contentment is great gain! However, there are a plethora of problems coming from the evangelistic approach to Christianity. For one, I think sola scriptura is debatable. In fact, sola scriptura seems to cause much confusion and division within the church because we live in this age of reasoning as we’re trying to figure everything out and have answers for everything. However, we cannot fully comprehend the ways of God. We have forsaken the sacraments and the gifts God gives His Bride, the church, and replaced it with music. I believe this is the reason many are leaving the faith because faith isn’t something tangible other than feeling it in the aroma of emotional highs in music. Jesus gave us his body and blood. That is the true test of faith - believing the bread and the wine as being the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus! We become participants with the Lord Jesus as we ingest his body and blood into our own bodies. Baptism has become symbolic or a profession of faith. That is not what Jesus taught it to be nor did the apostles view it this way. They believed it was water connected with the word to wash, restore, and regenerate someone to saving faith. Then, the Lord Jesus also gave us the church, and even a magisterium to operate under. However, since scripture is seen as our constitution, we don’t feel the need to be in favor or compelled to be under the authority of the church. So, yes, this man will leave the church and has made himself open to the enemy who has snatched him away. He wandered from the fold of God and his protection, and now his family is dismayed at the reality of his foolish reasoning. Hell, his own son is getting married and he can’t even see the significance of how this ceremony or sacrament demonstrates Jesus and the church. I pray and hope he realizes how his individualistic expression of reasoning can be a stumbling block for everyone around him, especially to the people he loves. That’s what’s very tragic about this whole episode. He’s pretty conceded only thinking of himself and is blinded by the color of his skin as the world turns a blind eye.
The Bible is too powerful for someone to make up. God doesn’t owe us every explanation either.
JESUS STILL LOVES YOU AND STILL WANTS U!!
🫡 Salute. Wishing you well on your journey.
For Christ Jesus, I speak this, preach this
In hopes that for some of y'all, I might reach this
And elect Christ as your personal President
Rule forever with no impeachment
The world can't stand us, so what
I can't stand when the world return to their own throw-up
Meaning they claim Christ when their so-called life is nice
Paper-chasing for Satan, then mad at God if He don't show up?
He's not your personal genie
He's not a dictator like Mussolini
He's the Almighty Father
Jehovah Rapha
These streets, the beats
The rap-styles don't mean nada...
- Tre-Z aka Todd Bangz
good moral laws that were written before moses shows people know how to choose good behavior. God put it in us to know these things. Look at like this as well, a hip hop artist who never read the bible, never been to church, never heard a gospel serman can make a morally good song.
Another black atheist, love to see it! Welcome to life unburdened by delusions and contradictions. 9 year old me would always get hype when I saw a J.R feat on a lecrae, trip lee, flame etc tracklist haha Goodbye and Eyes Open will forever be bangers still lol
dude ... what are you talking about?
He’s a non-christian now. Nothing wrong with learning and growing with where you were and where you want to be.
It’s serving him now so let’s continue to support him on his journey.
Sadly he doesn't seem mentally or spiritually well. Seems like his music career didn't take off as well as it could which caused him to get despondent and look elsewhere outside of God. Seeing him post Pro-Weed, Pro-Trans, Pro-etc. on his Instagram says it all.
@@AoD78RThat those things bother _you_ says it all.
Also, it's incredibly uncharitable to question his motivations for leaving, as if he didn't spend years thinking about and reading about these issues before coming to a conclusion.
This such a common Christian response to someone leaving, it's a well-known near cliche in ex-Christian communities.
We've all had our motivations and character immediately questioned when we leave. It sucks, and it's judgemental, and it's unhelpful, and it's generally untrue.
@@AoD78Rlooks like he's doing what it takes to be well. 1st dropping the toxicity of Christianity
@@trey5609 😊
🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾
I think you asked the right questions to the wrong people. There were many flood stories in antiquity. The Bible gave a different perspective . The Tower of Babel - that was a ziggurat, a common structure in the Mesopotamian world. And the Christ story , if you know the real story , it makes perfect sense, from OT to NT. Some just preach it wrong . This western “gospel” can’t save anyone . Get to know the Messiah, the only hope for this crazy world!
@courtneyorlandotv7599 Per your decision to walk away from Christianity (Jesus Christ), what if you’re wrong? Then what? Are you prepared to face the consequences of turning away from the only true God….?
My Dawg 👏🏿✊🏿💯🔥
💯💯💯💯💯
There’s answers to everything you asked Lord willing I will ma a lesson on them
Give yourself time. All your questions for the existence of Jesus have been more than adequately responded to. I’ll give you one that we can readily show to be weak. The Kemet negative confessions- “I have not uttered lies” but God says…am I a man that I would lie?” He already told us we have all lied and to deny it would be a lie. The Bible can be more than adequately intellectually proven. Everything you brought up has been more than adequately answered. Listen to PHD debates …that’s the easiest way…listen to the people on your the side of your new beliefs then listen to the defenders of the Biblical narrative. It’s night and day. The Bible is easily proven. Going back to the negative confessions those are attempts by men to claim self righteousness upon themselves whereas the 10 commandments are an indictment that we all fall short and need Jesus brother. You’ll be fine.
💪🏾💪🏾🔥🔥
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Had all the same questions. Many of them, you just haven’t researched well, others you just don’t like. We all have questions, but your demand for answers-or-else, mentality is immature. No one has all the answers…right now. Jesus is who he said he is, and proved it. You haven’t proved anything.
Talk to God, he will answer and reveal Himself to you. Your seeking History not God.
Just based on the description, this looks to be a sad video. You were so talented as J.R., the most creative and fresh hip-hop artist in Christian music hands-down. It always seemed like you were going through some issues after your music really wasn't being released and then how it seemed like the sinful world was creeping in with the artists you were working with. And now seeing "deconversion" makes me very sad if it's you no longer being a Christian. Another casualty that the devil won over. I hope I'm wrong. But if I'm not, you're only going to fade into obscurity even more and even less people will watch your videos and listen to your content.
Don’t curse the man, pray for him.
Thank goodness his life doesn’t depend on your faith. Christians kill me. Quick to condemn another instead of pray for a brotha. Do you not remember Jobe? I’m never worried about the person who shares his truth. I worry about the people like you who hide what they do.
You're so far off bro.... but have a blessed day
@@kulatheproducer745 “Be helpful to all who may have doubts. Rescue any who need to be saved, as you would rescue someone from a fire. Then with fear in your own hearts, have mercy on everyone who needs it. But hate even the clothes of those who have been made dirty by their filthy deeds.”
Jude 1:22-23 CEV
This was in no way loving or helpful; I hope neither were your intention.
Smh