This world renown multi-million dollar rapper/singer/song writer stood up on the stage surrounded by a gospel choir, almost eliminating his stage presence. From the moment he spoke, words of scripture emanated from his mouth. To say he has been criticized is an understatement, from Christians that doubt his sincerity to previous music followers who denounce his current beliefs.
I have heard many doubt his conversion as a public ploy. Today I can tell you that I felt the Holy Spirit come down upon the LeConte Convention Center. God was with over 12,000 students present, making it one of the largest gatherings of Christian teenagers in America to date. I cried with his sincerity, with his desperate pleas that God will strengthen his legs to stand. The conference emphasized that the messages given were meant to be taken, not just for a moment, but for eternity.
There was once another conversion who turned people’s heads, Saul, a renowned Jewish leader that actively killed, jailed and persecuted Christians. Acts 9:1-2 states, “Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples.” One experience with Christ on the Damascus Road turned his life in a 180-degree path in Acts 9:3-9. I would venture to say that God transforms lives with astounding circumstances today, just as He did in Paul’s time. Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday, today and forever” Hebrews 13:8. God often uses the most unlikely suspects to spread the gospel. Zacchaeus was a thief, Moses for a murder, and Kanye West is a rapper - but it is not about us, but God.
The world will mock, doubt and discourage, but I pray that God will strengthen Kanye West, his family (Kim Kardashian West) and his ministry. His humility, God-given talent, and immersion of the Word was surreal. Matthew 7:1 states, “Do not judge, least you be judged.” I praise God that He allowed Christ to cover my sins with His blood so that I will not be judged as I should by this sinful life. I pray that God will strengthen His chosen ones and bring the gospel to the world, despite our sin and unworthiness. After all, it is about God’s glory, not ours.