Does Eminem Get the Gospel?
Legend has it that The Times once sent an inquiry to famous authors, asking the question, “What’s wrong with the world today?”
To which G.K. Chesterton responded:
“Dear Sir,
I am.
Yours, G.K. Chesterton.”
Eminem’s 2013 smash hit, Monster, topped the charts in no fewer than twelve countries.
Featuring guest vocalist Rihanna, the heart-thumping rhythms and hard-driving vocals were greeted by worldwide applause and assault.
Many within the Entertainment industry applauded Monster, while many in the Christian community assaulted Monster.
Admittedly, his lyrics are often filled with images that ignore much of what those within the Christian community hold dear.
Yet, his lyrics also remind us of the hunger and thirst that both shape and direct desires.
It’s these desires that cause us to form and fashion a bevy of New Year’s Resolutions every time January rolls around.
Eminem isn’t the first to expose the truth that the human heart is fueled by desire. Many of the world’s most prolific poets, artists, theologians, and musicians who’ve come before him have as well.
In fact, desire is a topic Jesus often addressed.
In that way (identifying what lurks within), Eminem gets part of the Gospel right.
It’s not all of the Gospel, mind you.
But, it is part of it and it’s a part of the Gospel that many of us wish to ignore!