Rhett & Link Open Up About Their Evolving Religious Beliefs, Regrets & Reveal Michael Buckley Story

[@hibiscusicedtea]

this clip starts off with no context and i was so confused...

[@Talkqueen16]

I would have needed the quetions first, too

[@dixierae6063]

I'm very confused to Jessica. I clicked off and went looking for the beginning of the interview.

[@beesbrownies]

Yeah im just using context

[@theal5529]

Yep. Same

[@CometAura]

full podcast is in the description

[@addiefowler396]

These guys are a lot smarter than people give them credit for. It’s not where you come from it’s where you take yourself. Thank you Rhett and Link for saying the things you said and giving a perspective of change. It gives me true genuine hope that maybe there are some people who will be more accepting in the future.

[@jessica-tq1sf]

Addie Fowler Well said. I wish other content creators would/could be as transparent as Rhett and Link are sometimes.

[@GrowingPothos]

I didn't know people thought they weren't smart

[@vaibhavguptawho]

They're incredibly intelligent people. If people think their GMM personas are how they actually are, I strongly recommend checking out their podcast Ear Biscuits, where they can unwind. In one episode, Link specifically mentions that he told his youngest son how he played up for comedic effect being hurt by Shepard (Rhett's son) kicking him in the groin. He goes on to explain how he saw his son's understanding of him changed. That paragraph was atrocious but the conversation was really good. Highly recommend it.

[@GrowingPothos]

For me, perversion is a god that places more value on sexuality than kindness, selflessness and love. I don't like your god, and i don't believe in it.

[@TiffanyMaryJean]

They are very intelligent. They both have engineering degrees. Their speaking skills are way above average..

[@thaumatomane]

It is wonderful, as a gay man myself, to hear these two wonderful jesters who I so enjoy, being candid and supportive straight allies. And it was so powerful to hear the story of coming to terms with their own upbringing. It is so special during this time to hear of people growing and having the self reflection to deconstruct themselves and growing.

[@stepmothercity]

My older brother was gay in a time when the church was way more open about having a problem with it. I saw so many people use religion to back their own bigotry. That was a huge catalyst for me leaving the religion. I’m glad that at least my own parents still treated my brother’s boyfriends and gay friends with respect, even if they were wrongheaded about it in principle. Ironically the spirit of love is what ultimately pushed me away from the church. lol

[@thaumatomane]

Tawie Mhandu Yes, I know that. I don’t see how that relates?

[@RyanBird49]

It is great to see these guys kinda explain how they got from one place to another. Im sure there are people who are struggling with feeling horrible for thinking they're suppose to hate the gay community but are scared to let go of a belief that's been instilled in them. I'm sure this will help some people through that growth

[@pinstripe4254]

@Grandslade X He doesn't think they are gay he just is glad that they support the LGBT community and he respects their ability to accept other views.

[@isabellemalott9976]

Grandslade X He called them straight allies what are you saying?

[@Crucis119]

"the belief I was ingrained with didn't allow me to sincerely hug the guy". Thank you. Thank you a million times. Before I let go of a lot of Fundamentalist and Evangelical beliefs, I had this crisis many times.

[@ArcusDraco]

But that isn't Christianity. As we see in Luke 7:36-50, Jesus is not afraid of letting a "sinful woman" do the intimate act of washing his feet. To say that your Christianity won't allow you to hug a gay person is extremely sad and, according to this passage, flatly unbiblical. We are supposed to emulate Christ and in Scripture we constantly see Jesus interacting with sinners. While Jesus acknowledges that they are sinners, he does not shy away from them or outright cast them away. Moreover, Christianity isn't always what you interpret it to be. If one thing is causing you to stumble in your faith in Jesus, your beliefs can change. It sounds to me like Rhett and Link's inability to hug a gay person was not Christian and it was unbiblical. Simply because someone is a sinner does not and should not mean we should reject them. Everyone needs the Gospel and everyone needs caring, biblical love.

[@isabellemalott9976]

ArcusDraco I still don’t think homosexuality should make somebody a sinner just based off that alone, though

[@ArcusDraco]

@@isabellemalott9976 What? What am I saying makes homosexuality sinful?

[@DaemonDrummer33]

@@isabellemalott9976 I'm not religious at all anymore, but those beliefs are clearly backed by their scriptures. You'd have to be doing some incredible mental gymnastics to suggest otherwise. See for example, Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, 1 Corinthians 6:9-11. That belief is backed by many verses in both Old and New Testament.

[@Misunao23]

It’s a really affirming and valuable viewpoint to understand. No matter if Conservative or Liberal or anything in between, beliefs are learned an engrained. It’s scary to take a step outside of what you know and believe is the ultimate truth. Rhett and Link probably had to go through a lot of that. One step at a time.

[@Cadency]

the part where rhett said "cant you see youve already lost this argument, history is going to leave you behing" that was honestly powerful, it made me tear up really

[@OrcBaneScape]

I literally read this as he was saying it haha

[@wartrix6046]

That seems kind of scary

[@brandonwells3713]

@@wartrix6046 What part of that was scary?

[@wartrix6046]

@@brandonwells3713 the "history will leave you behind" part.

[@ArcusDraco]

How have they lost the argument, though? Rhetts seems to view history as somehow continually evolving to an improved state improving, which seems to be a common belief, but that is not how history works. In ancient times, homosexuality was widely practiced by the Greeks and Romans. With Greeks in particular, another common occurrence was pederasty, which is where an older man does sexual things with a teenager. These behaviors, however, were shunned as wrong by later peoples. Even today, pederasty would be highly discouraged and considered immoral. Were the Greeks and Romans, then, always on the right side of history because of their views on homosexuality? How could they be on the right side when they were shunned as immoral for a millennia afterwards? So I ask, who determines what is the right and wrong side of history? Who is to say that this "right" side of history won't become a wrong side afterwards?

[@jonathannixon5391]

Back when I was still a kid in a solidly Christian household and before I had even figured out I was gay, I loved these guys. And this was even way back before they were making GMM which is wild to think about (anybody remember the shoes they sold?). These guys were the first KZbinrs I fell in love with and getting to know them during their early days in GMM especially, I knew these guys were standup dudes. And part of my excuse to my dad that these guys were cool, was I knew they mentioned that they were christian. Years later now, I'm and adult and have been out of the closet for just under a year. I haven't quite kept up with them as much over the last 4-5 years, but even falling out of the loop with them, I still had a massive amount of respect for them and their work and who they were as people. And being where I am now, openly gay and in love with another man, and dealing with my dad who doesn't like that, seeing these guys who I basically grew up admiring, talk about stuff like this is just so heartwarming and makes me love them even more

[@ThisIsTori_]

Jonathan Nixon I’m glad you have love. I’m sorry your dad isn’t understanding. I hope he’ll come around one day. ❤️

[@eekeey]

Thanks for sharing your story.

[@JChannel_]

Of course everyone's got to agree with, cottle and comfort you. You should like them regardless of their views. If you want people to just tell you what you want to hear just say so, they'll gladly oblige.

[@davidholmes3619]

@@JChannel_ Dude, who hurt you? Do you need to talk for a minute? You seem tense.

[@PoeLemic]

Jonathan: I feel for you, and I understand your plight. I came out of the closet too, but it wasn't about sexuality; it was about Religion to my father. My family is very soft-core (but once hard-core) religious people, and I came out to them as a non-believer. Yes, I grew up in Religion, and I can explain Scriptures from morning until night. But, I woke up one day and realized -- that I don't believe and think it is all "man-made hogwash". And, my Dad sure didn't like that. He's passed now, but we eventually came to terms with it. Yet, it was where we just didn't talk about God, Jesus, etc. He just was not capable of trying to understand what I learned about Christianity through reading. Don't read Dr. Richard Carrier ever. Your views will change very, very fast.

[@naotohex]

Its funny because Rhett is right. Religion is usually behind when it comes to a lot of stuff and it basically takes the culture as a whole to change it which is honestly sad. Hearing how Link was having trouble with hugging a Michael just because of how they were raised is crazy to me. This is a really good clip.

[@EllaShartiel]

i think you got rhett and link mixed up

[@FriendlyToons]

@@EllaShartiel what do you mean he said that right

[@PurpleNothing]

@@FriendlyToons their comment is edited so it might have been mixed initially. It is correct now, yes.

[@EllaShartiel]

@@PurpleNothing yep

[@JChannel_]

It's all matter of bias opinion. It'd be easy for everyone just to say do whatever the f🚫 you want who cares right?! Right?! There's nothing wrong with sin or misbehavior or this that or the other It's all just relative let's go back to living like animals and doing what animals do. How bout dat. The problem Link had was just that a PROBLEM LINK HAD! Anti-Religious people just like to throw $hit at religion all day, everyday. It's a hobby for many people. I can make a hobby of demonizing, dehumanizing and delegitimizing secular dolts too. It's okay to dismiss other views until It's your own then you got a problem with it! Huh. Typical normies.

[@awesomebacon1075]

Haven’t seen Rhett and Link in 5 years. I come back, and it seems they switched hairdos

[@puckerings]

In a sense, their moving to LA did help their deconversion. Not in the sense that they were around a bunch of godless hippies, but in the sense that they moved outside of their bubble. The bubble is VERY important for maintaining faith, and it becomes much more difficult to do so if you move outside of it and encounter more and more people who do not share your beliefs.

[@Harlequinn750]

puckerings respectfully I disagree with your bubble theory. growing up in a Godless society pushed me towards Christianity. There was so much evil around me all the time. I have, now as a Christian, encountered many people who don’t share my beliefs and I think what it comes down to is respect and being respectful. We don’t have to agree in order to respect one another.

[@nunpho]

@@Harlequinn750 what was evil?

[@megablaziken9669]

@@nunpho nothing

[@officerpoopnugget9989]

I live in NYC, and up until recently I really didn't think much of the diversity with this place, where there are so many Jews, Muslims, Christians, Buddhists, Hindus and so many more. It's very important I agree to get out of the bubble where you think your respective religion is the only way, the only truth out there like Rhett said. Having different perspectives gives you the chance to improve your own faith. Questioning your religion, having doubts and such is something that is natural and integral to being a person of any faith. In Islam it's called jihad, the struggle of a person and their faith. In Judaism they study the Torah and "wrestle with God." In Christianity we don't necessarily have a name for it but it's central to the belief. So, tldr, I agree lol

[@pinstripe4254]

@@Harlequinn750 I don't think that they meant that you cannot find faith within a non religious group. I think that they meant that if you aren't surrounded by people who share your beliefs then it is a lot harder to sustain those beliefs. It's not impossible but it is definitely more difficult.

[@tbscutetbs]

I love that Phil just sat back and let them speak.

[@HotStrange]

For real. That’s a sign of a great interviewer and conversationalist.

[@3izzy0]

This went deeeeeeeeep and only made me appreciate Rhett and Link more.

[@insertname442]

eliza gerbig you should listen to ear biscuits

[@nunpho]

Yeah, ear biscuits is my favourite

[@MrPretzel6000]

But if they would come out as a republican you would have a Karen meltdown

[@crobeastness]

It's not that deep. I don't know why they think Christians have to hate gays and they never explained why "hate the sin not the sinner" is a bad saying. The problem with the protestant and by proxy evangelical world is some of the good lessons they learn is not backed up by reason and logic. Most of the go to answers are "because of God". Well if it is because of God who made a rational and reasonable world, it would be true for a secularist and you should know how to explain that for such an audience. This isn't really really a problem in the catholic world. Being against gay marriage is easily explained through natural law (not to be confused with if gay acts are natural or not. Natural law is a real philosophical view point).

[@dead1966]

@@crobeastness it’s deep to certain people. like me (sorry that’s irrelevant) but it’s awesome to hear my favorite youtubers be supportive of the community i’m apart of, LGBTQ+

[@keons2969]

i never even knew about their religious upbringing or of any homophobia. i’ve been a casual fan of theirs for years and i’m glad they can talk about this now. it really would have meant a lot for younger me to see something like this from my favorite creators. this interview is so so important and so well done

[@LunatheMoonDragon]

You should check out their deconstructing religion episodes of their podcast Ear Biscuits. They each have their own episode and talk for a very long time about what their religion and beliefs used to be, how their minds started changing, how difficult it was, and how it changed their outlook on life. This really only scratched the surface!

[@meredithsobel5223]

I admire them so much. It's truly inspiring to hear such humility and honesty

[@CaleeFree]

"...it was also, people could tell we were different because...we're uptight. I think we are judgemental..." "...the belief that I was ingrained with, didn't allow me to sincerely hug the guy...and that was upsetting..." This is such an incredible conversation.

[@HotStrange]

It’s a very incredible conversation and that level of self-awareness is incredible as well. If everyone possessed the ability to see inside themselves that deeply, there would be a lot less sucky people in the world.

[@zoroarkking18]

This is why I don't want to pass judgment on anyone who struggles with accepting certain cultures. Link wanted to hug that man because he saw him as a person first. As long as people with prejudiced beliefs can be made to see the person first, they can learn to open their minds.

[@oliviamurphy9482]

love this

[@Kilroy487]

Yes. I'm a straight, white, cis man, and I grew up in a fundamentally christian household, and this is how I felt for so long. I am currently agnostic and very supportive of my sister's happy marriage to a trans man and open bisexuality, because it isn't the problem that my upbringing made me think it was. I don't care if people say that I'm a "dirty liberal", because I'm proud to be a liberal egalitarian. It's who I am because of my experiences.

[@FourDozenEggs]

As a conservative, hell yeah man.

[@Andrew-yl7lm]

Isn't straight and cis the same? Or not?

[@isabellemalott9976]

Curtainfall No, because you could be a cis lesbian or gay man too.. it just means your gender is your biological gender that you’re born with!

[@tyrakristiansen7188]

@@Andrew-yl7lm Straight refers to your sexuality, that you only love the opposite sex. Cis refers to your gender, that you're the exact gender you were born with! :)

[@Andrew-yl7lm]

Ok so cis is all about who you are and being straight is what you're attracted to. I realise 'cis' is literally the opposite of 'trans' in Latin now. Thanks.

[@CapTheNPC2]

This podcast was probably my favorite you've done. The subject matter is so hard-hitting. This episode was completely mesmerizing for me.

[@levimata9053]

As a Christian and as a person of faith I love these guys, even still outside of their faith they took all the good things that being a person of faith is and ran with it. I was once a pentacostal/evangelical christain as they were, and I eventually lost my faith like they did, but what I realized is that I didn’t lose my faith, I just got so caught up in religion and the rules & regulation that I had lost my actual relationship with God. Religion is the enemy of faith, religion is what Jesus stood against and is one of the main reasons he was killed. I’m sad to see that they couldn’t find what I found, but I’m so glad to see that they’re still sharing the love that Jesus offers, just in their own way.

[@sydneypierson733]

levi mata you said this so perfectly. hopefully they find Him in a way that you did once again.

[@jacobaguado8928]

Wow, very well said. I'm also a Christian and realized that I was also going through that same thing once upon a time and now I'm rebuilding my end of my relationship with God. On another note, I pray that maybe one day Rhett and Link can find a life in Christ an be able to spread a message of truth on a platform like they have and show that just because you're gay or have made bad decisions in your life, you still deserve love from God and that is what He will provide.

[@IceMetalPunk]

@@shadow4040 Redefining what a "true Christian" is every time someone points out a terrible part of Christianity is just moving the goalposts. It's actually a fallacy that's so common it has a formal name: the No True Scotsman fallacy. And it's even HARDER to defend in the case of an Abrahamic religion: you can't claim the Bible is the word of an all-knowing, infallible deity, then decide you're going to pick and choose to ignore parts of it.

[@letty5515]

Well said. Thank you. I needed to read this. My congregation could use your comment. It feels stagnant.

[@devingraves8044]

I alwasy think its interesting how on the show Rhett is always more outgoing, but outside the show environment, Link takes control

[@jessica-tq1sf]

This interview is so important. I grew up within thirty minutes of a big city, and I was lucky enough to be exposed to all kinds of people from a young age, however I know many weren't. I hope Rhett and Link's story of transitioning between small town, Christian upbringing to big city, openly accepting influencers opens more peoples eyes. Being religious and being accepting of all people can coexist. This is a conversation that needs to happen more. I am so proud of these two for being strong in their identity and bringing this to light.

[@orlandomonroy7877]

This is really cool. Rhett and link bring so much happiness. I’m not LGBTQ+ but none the less it’s wonderful to see their journey to acceptance... of others, and themselves.

[@InsaneInsomniac1]

When you’re raised in a religion, it is very hard to remove those viewpoints and religious values from your way of life. I was VERY lucky that I had a very loose religious upbringing despite being in the South (my grandparents regularly attended church, my parents both considered themselves Christian but we never went to church and never really spoke about religion). It allowed me and my siblings to form our own opinions on religion and make our own choices. I’ve always been able to tell that Rhett and Link were great guys, and you could tell that they have strong morals and are very logical.

[@condyshares]

For whoever is confused Rhett & Link recently opened up to speak for the first time about their previous Christian faith and bwing hardcore into I believe the Baptist church and being missionaries. Just a couple months back on their main channel they make about 4 podcasts speaking on each of their "spiritual reconstruction" and "lost years" as they're titled. They are very long but they are so in depth and worth every minute - I learned so much about the both of them despite being a fan for 11 years now.

[@alexanderb4818]

Oh. Babtist? I didn't know that. That explains a lot. Babtists and Catholics are the worst that I've met personally.

[@ItsJimbo]

This explains everything. For years I have been feeling uncomfortable and almost upset over how very scared they've seemed of physical contact, always resisting every form of touch from each other and you could almost tell it was from internalized homophobia. I'm very happy for them that opening up like this is something that they are big enough people to do.

[@thaumatomane]

Everything you just wrote resonated with me completely.

[@manicpixiedreamdango]

I’ve noticed that too, especially from their earlier content. It’s clear that they want to show their affection for each other, but it’s almost painful to watch them completely brush it off or act disgusted sometimes. I’m so happy that they’re evolving and growing as humans.

[@graywolf8017]

Not wanting to be touched doesn't necessarily correlate to being homophobic.

[@stonecake313]

Gray Wolf that’s true, but there is an issue with a lot of western men being taught it’s weird or kinda gay to be physical/verbally affectionate with their male friends. Men never used to be like this, poets used to write intense loving tales about their male friends, mentors, etc. It’s in our nature to want physical contact from friends and family, but these days a lot of men don’t even like hugging each other. And u can say it’s just “preference”, but that’s the case only because we’re not socialized to want that while growing up. It’s an isolating “preference” that goes against what we biologically need to be mentally healthy and happy. At least in my opinion, you probably feel differently

[@alexanderb4818]

It takes more intelligence to admit you were wrong than it does to insist you were right. I have to give Rhett and Link props for this. They are such great, intelligent, empathetic people.

[@alecsnow5514]

ngl i feel like Rhett got way funnier about a year after moving to LA. little easier to relax and say what you want to say without all those rules from on high :p

[@ariehouston7209]

Alec Snow both of them just really opened up and became themselves rather than walking on mental eggshells all the time. It’s so nice to see them just be themselves on gmm and stuff.

[@maricosgrove2490]

They definitely had big Youth Group Leader vibes for a bit, which makes sense now that I know their religious background haha

[@aurora78]

I was raised with the same fundamental beliefs. It has taken a lifetime to unwind that trauma. Especially as a bi woman. I honestly see a lot of religion as child abuse

[@jennymck7320]

aurora78 ❤️❤️❤️

[@ThisIsTori_]

aurora78 I’m sorry you had to deal with that. Not fair to you or anyone else that has dealt with that.

[@aurora78]

@@ThisIsTori_ thank you. 💜

[@stardustpan]

I'm sorry you had to go through that. I've always gone to church and don't rember ever learning that "gays are bad" so I really had no problem with coming out to myself on that front. Now it's been over a year I've been out, Christian and proud! I hope you find a community that supports and encourages you! Bless you.

[@mikekelly3814]

aurora78 bi doesn’t exist. You are gay or you aren’t

[@ElazulsCore]

Rhett and Link are too pure, too good for this world. Which is why we need them so much.

[@kate_6436]

I’ve been watching them since I was 13 and I’m 24 now and I’m gay myself and it’s just so nice to see them talk about this stuff

[@cloudofreverie786]

Tawie Mhandu no shit

[@bandamani]

@Tawie Mhandu wtf lol

[@isabellemalott9976]

Grandslade X you can be straight and be nice to gay people

[@eddie8409]

@Grandslade X They are not implying that Rhett and Link are gay they are just happy becuase Rhett and Link are accepting from my understanding

[@sl0wku43]

The only thing that bothers me about this video is that GOD.DAMNED.FIGURE!! It’s in such a weird position!!!

[@karenaqualey4700]

The spirit evolves and these two have evolved in a graceful and amazing way. If you don't grow, learn and evolve then the world will pass you and your archaic ways behind.

[@dclarkmusic]

My mom mentioned your “rejection of God” and I couldn’t believe it was actually news. How did it even leave KZbin lol? I grew up in a fundamentalist household, and I applaud your journey for truth. It seems that as time goes on, and you’re presented with the complexities and diversity of people you encounter, your worldview must grow, and you inevitably can’t stay fundamentalist. It’s too small a box.

[@franticranter]

one of the greatest failings with the church right now is the way it has handled homosexuality, and whilst this handling obvs varies from church to church, so much of the church is unaccepting of gay people, and this has hurt people like me. and even if they are accepting, like my church is, they are often silent on the issue, meaning you don't know where they stand and so you are scared to come out. we can and should reconcile the bible with homosexuality because God loves all of us, whether we are gay, straight, black, white, tall, short, male, female, trans, blue-eyed or brown-eyed; and he died for all of us, every single one. but not all of the church is judgemental in this way, and the church can also be an accepting place. knowing that God loved me for who I am and made me the way I was helped me so much when I realised I was gay. the church's role in peoples lives as a positive force shouldn't be written off just because we've failed so much as a church on this matter. the church is made up of humans, and so it fails sometimes and makes mistakes. but god is perfect, and having a relationship with him is the best thing I have in my life, and the church's purpose is to love, and it sometimes fails, but it is overall a force for good and for love

[@fodonzor6847]

Can I like more than once?

[@scrapperk8399]

thou ist, thank you for saying this so well as well being so loving and forgiving but not accepting the status quo...hmmm, sounds a lot like Jesus to me! 💕

[@hawkensanimations2516]

damn nice one! but i am very disappointed for what the current status of the church and religion in general has done, christianity in its core has never been mentioned to be a religion in the bible and it never was just like cultural appropriation we humans have bended that word to suit our understanding back then. the whole basis of God is that he is so powerful that even we can't comprehend his power and wisdom and were not supposed to once you start studying the word the more it loses its overall meaning tho i am a christian the lgbtq+ community always had my respect yes lgbtq+ is a sin in the bible that is true but above that you love your neighbour despite of that. im sorry if this offended anyone, this is just my opinion in the matter good day y'all

[@gracehall9186]

Something I love about these guys is that they are very funny but know when to be serious and be open about some of there not strongest moments.

[@gpeddino]

I've been watching their content since 2014-ish and it's really noticeable how their demeanor changed as the years went by. There was a moment in which they seemed uptight, almost aggressive at times. Now they seem so laid back and comfortable with themselves, with each other and with their crew.

[@libertyerichsen3904]

Link described the picked apart thing so perfectly these guys have always been a favorite and this genuinely made me cry

[@DedikateSSB]

I've loved rhett and link for years, i think they were the first youtubers i ever got into and loved watching. Now that i watched this, i love them even more.

[@josephrodriguez3548]

I honestly love there points of view I’ve had the exact same experience as link did and ive felt what he has word for word.

[@SB-oh7hw]

11:05 I think there's an important distinction between losing something and outgrowing something. It's not that they lost something, they just outgrew the idea that being gay is something bad

[@wildcherries4287]

I was raised in a really strict Christian house, they pressured me into believing being gay would end you up in hell. My mother still believes that when the "rapture" comes, whoever isn't following god will get sent to hell.

[@mashleyden]

Tayah yeeeah my entire community believes that

[@wildcherries4287]

@@mashleyden Damn that sucks

[@JSDGDesign]

I am sorry that same-sex attraction was condemned in that way in you upbringing. As to you second point, you mother's belief is a pretty orthodox, if coursely worded, understanding of Christian thought.

[@lens_hunter]

I was raised in the same way, however my parents also taught me to never disrespect or treat anyone poorly. So to this day there are certain things that bother me, but I always treat everyone I meet with respect and generally try to be a nice person.

[@zekewalston6267]

I come from the same exact type of background as these guys and to hear that other people shift their view points on things like this is honestly so refreshing to hear.

[@datsvewynice]

this is very heartwarming to me. it means a lot that even though that grew up in the conditions they did, they can still grow and love people who that used to have different views on. they really give me hope for humanity and truly show that’s people can change and as time goes on people are becoming better and more supportive of eachother🏳️‍🌈💞

[@aarontokay1463]

Tawie Mhandu did anyone ever say they were?

[@peteisfanatic]

Growing up, I was constantly surrounded by Christianity and certain views routed in hate that even now I’m still wary when I hear anything Christian because that caused so much trauma

[@briellahill4260]

PeteIsFanatic i’m sorry you experienced that. as a christian, it breaks my heart how people feel so negatively towards christianity because they were raised in abusive households or taught that it was harmful to others. i completely understand how some people have trauma from it and it hurts my heart. that’s not what it’s supposed to be. christianity is love. His love. I hope you are doing good and I hope you can find a good christian community in the future that is loving and won’t hurt you. I’m so sorry you had to go through that. christianity is not about what you can and can’t do, it’s about how He will love you no matter what. :)

[@empyrreann]

It’s the same with me. I experienced so much hatred, anger and bigotry when I was christian. I’ve been much happier ever since I stopped being christian, when I was about 14. The pursuit of love and happiness is what made me leave. It caused me a lot of self hatred and trauma, so anytime I hear about anything relating to christianity I also get wary.

[@tinytarakeet]

loved this episode! important, intimate and really affirming!

[@TheFinalWagon]

link brave af for telling this story

[@reidturing9208]

So glad that they're on record saying this.. They're truly being their mythical best

[@badgers48]

As an active catholic Christian. I don’t ever plan to turn away from Jesus. Now I love Rhett and link, and man do we share our religious and political differences. Now, I am in no room to judge their religious beliefs. But at least these two men are able to put a smile on everyone’s face, and I know the lord has faith in them that down the road they will find him in peace at middle ground. I feel that society would work better if people from different sides were always able to find a middle ground

[@Misunao23]

These guys are a great example of Southerners who grew up in a Conservative culture and religious upbringing who learned to live outside of their bubble. There’s gonna be a lot of kinds of hurt. Hurt of knowing ppl will judge you, hurt of knowing your beliefs from your upbringing hurts others, and the hurt of trying to figure out how to understand and be yourself while knowing your beliefs hurt others. It’s ultimately a long journey.

[@emilyjackson8736]

You can tell they genuinely feel bad about how they used to be. the way they speak they’ve grown and opened their eyes. I love that so much.

[@RedColdRitsu]

I love these two dudes. Nothing but respect for them.

[@GrantDances2Live]

I love how Introspective they both are

[@CatchingStarlight]

god this is. really interesting and really. relatable? i'm lgbt, but i grew up in the deep south like rhett and link. i used to have that same internalized lgbtphobia that link sort of touches on... even though i was lgbt. and it was because of the environment i grew up in. like rhett and link, i also ended up moving to a more liberal area (new york) and encountered thoughts and ideals that i had never heard of or experienced before. this is a good viewpoint from those who grew up in the south i think. i really appreciate rhett and link and their support of the lgbt community, and i appreciate that they grew, learned, and became more open. it's nice to hear and makes me feel even better about supporting them and being a fan.

[@BlueFlameCremation]

This is why despite me being religious and believing in God that I don't walk into churches. My religious views won't get in the way of how I treat people, I was raised to treat everyone kindly and I'm gonna do that. I can live in God's light without disrespecting the one's who don't believe in what I believe in.

[@BlueFlameCremation]

@@minuscaseus Religion can be twisted and it really gives a bad rep. I believe faith is the ultimate key. My way of expressing that is being kind to everyone, some people seem to have an elitist attitude after reading into any religion, which is why I don't go to churches.

[@_lil_lil]

That's kinda what Jesus preached too, interestingly enough. Church was not supposed to be a place of gathering but a place of being and acting. (And obviously megachurches are the antithesis of what Jesus stood for)

[@froliciouspanda]

I have so much respect for someone who can publicly admit they are wrong and express how they have grown!!!!

[@aidanjackson3885]

Rhett basically pointing out that social conservatives are on the wrong side of history is one of the most beautifully worded points I’ve ever heard in my life. The people who are against gay marriage today are the same types of people who 100 years ago were against interracial marriage and it only goes on from there. Beautifully worded.

[@darcybhaiwala7057]

Rhett and Link have probably introduced a good chunk of America to cultures and foods from around the world in a really funny and loving way. You have to be innately open minded to do this

[@rosannashe6313]

I wish we had an expanded interview here. this is so important for people from every walk of life. It speaks to how, when we open our eyes, and hearts to different ways of thinking and living we expand ourselves, our minds and our love for each other. We need far more of this in the world. I had the same limited exposure growing up and thought conservative christianity was the only way. Once I became an adult and began to travel the world and meet many people with various beliefs and lifestyles could I finally truly appreciate others as well as myself. I am no longer a christian and don't regret a moment of my discovery of life and different ways of being. The USA is filled with too many people who never can move beyond their own circles for a variety of reasons, and they are unfortunately the harshest people to deal with. how do we get them experiences which open their minds and hearts? Its the only way forward. for all of us.

[@VIPandalicious]

This is just a clip from the podcast. You can see the interview on the A Conversation With channel, or when they first addressed it on their own podcast Ear Biscuits (I think that's the name).

[@rosannashe6313]

@@VIPandalicious thank you!

[@Sheekers]

As a queer woman who was raised on very traditional Christian values, I relate so much to what they're saying. I'd love to have a podcast about topics like this from them and seeing the story of their growth in their faith. Thank you for sharing!!

[@justindtackett]

Pull back and view this from afar. This is what happens when everything is broadcast. What many wrestle with internally is now being put out for millions of people to see and interact with. The possibility for damage that can make quest for deeper faith and genuine discourse with the creator can turn into someone backing into their corner in the absence of great courage.

[@lhall9697]

I actually got some confidence to actually come out of the closet

[@deanrichard1770]

Nice 👍

[@fartyfat6539]

🖤 prioritize your safety first

[@Nunya_Bisnach]

These two poor souls have been sheltered their whole life. They couldn't wrap their mind around being Christian and hugging a person with same-sex attraction. I feel sorry for them and angry at their church and families that didn't better prepare them for the truth. If Jesus commands us to love our enemies, why would it ever be difficult to love our gay neighbors? Rhett and Link are two perfect examples of being raised Culturally Christian.

[@puckerings]

Unfortunately your post is an example of the cherry-picking that many Christians engage in to justify their continued belief. Jesus allegedly said a lot more than just love your enemies, but you focus only on that to claim that Christianity cannot be used to support bigotry. But you ignore many other parts of Christianity that can be used to support bigotry. And it's not up to you as to which parts are representative of "true" Christianity, as there is no authority to appeal to. Which is to say, the type of Christians who are bigoted toward homosexuals would claim that their interpretation of Christianity is correct, and that yours is misguided. And neither of you can demonstrate that they're right, or that the other is wrong, because it's all based on interpretations.

[@dixierae6063]

Watching the four videos that Rhett and Link made disclosing the truth about their religious history and the changes that they had made we're by far the most honest genuine and real experiences I have ever shared with two other human being. I had just become a fan three months earlier and I commented on your other video that I had watched seasons 1 through 17 back to back every episode prior to watching those videos. I could see and questioned that's something was going on with these man on an extremely deep level I believed it had to do with them being Christians although they never spoke of their Christianity. What an amazing journey. Turned out to be. I honestly think I know these two men better then the majority of people I've known my whole life.

[@DevonRucker]

I love this conversation. Everyone's relationship with God is different, and it's a hard thing to talk about. I like them even more for the honesty. 👏🏾👏🏾

[@Heyhowdyhi]

A few minutes into the video I looked up from just reading the comments and I thought the figure thing in front of link was a lizard of some sort lol

[@pink_alligator]

Even when they were christian they were a good kind of christian bcs I never had A Clue before this (despite having watched their content regularly but several years ago) that they were religious, let alone evangelical That's the good kind of religious person but I'm happy for them for having broken free and dared to face some very uncomfortable things that often hold people back bcs they don't want to face those things

[@jasper9434]

I don’t really watch them but my dad watches them and I heard this thing about them and LGBTQ+. When I started reading about it I got kinda sad. After I saw this video I got really happy

[@Fashionbykileyblog]

While I was surprised that Steven Crowder was relatively cordial when talking about Rhett and Link in one of his videos, this conversation made me realize that Crowder using both of their stories, in which Rhett and Link are not trying to form a case against religion, and to try to refute aspects of their stories....I don't believe it was the most respectful thing to do, nor the best way to approach it. He has the right to talk about it due to it being public domain, of course, but belittling their growth as people into poster child examples of what not to do, it's unfortunate.

[@namegirl12]

crowder was talking about rhett and link? do you have a link to that video?

[@namegirl12]

@Talsong Kingslayer nah, different video.

[@CultWhatever]

People aren’t leaving the church, the church is leaving the religion

[@wizkida981015]

Christianity is not a binary. It's not a choice between "being a Christian/believing the Bible" and "being okay with the LGBT+ community". I'm a Christian and I firmly believe this is one of many points that's gotten twisted over the years simply because it suited a majority group. Some of my best friends have been members of the community, but even if that weren't the case, the points would still hold true.

[@JChannel_]

That's how they want to portray it because they can't handle people who don't have issues with adults being whatever stupid thing they want to be and yet still think certain lifestyles still aren't great for people, society or life in general IF people are actually principled and being honest with people instead of brown nosing, kissing their a$$ or just telling them what they want to hear. If someone wants to be a 40yo drunk, crack addict, with 5 wives, 2 husbands, 20 kids out of wedlock and wants to be trans NO ONE CARES! But if people want people to be honest then people just might point out the obvious moral principles that says none of that is good for anyone. It doesn't serve any good purpose. That's just it. And entitled people just don't like to be told they've done stupid things. Just look at the many countries that no longer believe in the natural observation that some people are in debt. They don't believe in such a thing. A religion in its own moral objectification it seeks to impose on the world.

[@rosannashe6313]

you speak for yourself but not others. I was part of christian community that never would tolerate LGBTQ community or issues and thankfully got out. Many (most) most don't tolerate or accept. I know you might not of intended this but please don't try to legitimise "christianity" as whole. speak to your own experience.

[@JChannel_]

@@rosannashe6313Ummm just because YOU were in a "community" that was like that doesn't mean "most" are. 1 or even however many YOU think are out there are not representative of Christianity as a whole. That's called generalization. Christianity as in churches is not immune to human error, neither are secular communities, the LGBT community and Rhett & Link. Christianity as a belief system is clear that you ought to love your neighbor but that doesn't mean lying to your neighbor and giving them false comfort, false ideas and just whispering sweet nothings in their ears. We're not here to brown nose, pander or make people feel comfortable in sin, disobedience, disrespect, disorder, etc. We're here to love people by telling them natural truths that are backed up by nature and science. It's your choice to believe or not believe but you're not the arbiter of what's right and wrong, none of us are because, whether you believe in sin & disobedience or not, we've all done wrong. But even if you simply use the scientific method, look at patterns or at nature you should see although an adult has a right to do whatever stupid thing they want that doesn't mean It's naturally, principally, or ethically seen as righteous or purposeful. Thus people have a right and duty to tell the hard truth even if it makes people uncomfortable and while those speaking it only speak truth in love not to spite people.

[@wizkida981015]

@@rosannashe6313 This is an excellent point, and I apologize for not clarifying. Obviously, this is not a shared experience, and Christians are much more well known for their hate towards the community than their acceptance of it. I consider myself a Christian, and yet I think these homophobic views are straight up incorrect. In my original comment, I sort of made an assumption that people would recognize that, when I said that "this is one of the many points that has beene twisted over the years", Christians were the ones doing the twisting. Long Story Short, I didn't mean to summarize that my views on the issue are popular, and there's still a long way to go.

[@VIPandalicious]

@@JChannel_ lol

[@tippib2222]

They were so honest and sympathetic about the reasons for their eventual agnosticism. They went through so much reflection and questioning. I’m sorry they got blowback.

[@lukethomas658]

Wow, this is powerful, I'm proud of them

[@AmandaaRose]

I wasn’t expecting to cry tbh 😭

[@rosewoodbriar]

KZbin just recommended this to me like it was something new and I got excited til I realized this is from the podcast video that dropped over a month ago 😔

[@rachellarson2740]

For anyone who's confused with the judgmental attitudes of some Christians, he hard truth about Christianity is that you could live the worst life ever but as long as you accept Jesus you are given Grace. It has literally nothing to do with you and everything to do with Him. Anyone who judges you for your livelihood is incorrect because it has nothing to do with actions. EDIT: Also if you read the bible it never calls us to judge gay people, that's only something judgey Christians have taken upon themselves. We're only called to love people.

[@skye1678]

thats something that i always thought was strange as a kid growing up Christian. if God is supposed to forgive all sins and love people unconditionally, why would that change simply for being gay, having premarital sex, following another religion, etc? many people seem to value the judgemental aspects of their faith over the ones that bring people together, which is quite sad for everyone involved

[@IceMetalPunk]

"We're only called to love people"? Pretty sure the Bible also calls upon you to stone people to death, too.

[@EmptyheadStudio45]

IceMetalPunk yes it did....in the Old Testament. And that was a punishment for disobeying Gods direct orders. But when the New Testament was established and Jesus did his 3 year tour teaching all who would listen the Old Testament laws were now null and void. This is because now everyone (not just the Jews) has a chance to be saved. The Jewish customs were something that did not need to transfer for everyone. All everyone had to do was follow the new laws being taught be Jesus and his disciples. Many of the new laws were old ones that were revised to better fit Gods plan, one that teaches love and peace. Anything that involved killing another man or making sacrifices was no longer needed after Jesus died.

[@lukegarrett1410]

As a Christian, I am a firm believer in Jesus Christ and the salvation that was given to us through His death on the cross. I am always open to new ideas, as long as they are in line with scripture. I am really eager to learn the truth about LGBTQ and whether or not it is biblically and morally right. I will never let someone’s say of living get in the way of me loving them. We weren’t deserving of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, but He died for us anyway. Love others unconditionally, no exceptions.

[@jackl3in]

If only they had Pepsi the process would’ve happened so much faster

[@dixierae6063]

I'm a new subscriber and I was trying to figure out where are the rest of this interview was I didn't catch on that this channel simply shows clips. I decided to check out your descriptions and was very happy to find that you have another Channel with full interviews. Happy to be a new subscriber. This social isolation has definitely turned my brain to mush

[@rhysnelson6077]

As a Christian, the problem I see with Christianity is it has become less about loving one another and loving God, and more about fear of change. We hold too tightly to ancient middle eastern scriptures that have been poorly translated to English and very badly interpreted. As a Christian my view on the world is now “treat people how they are worth, not how we think they deserve” and I believe that is what Jesus was truly trying to teach His followers.

[@brooksbrocc]

I love hearing them talk more about deeper topics

[@allysonkathryn5014]

Can you imagine how different Rhett and Links Career would be if all these realization they had about lgbtq+ and their beliefs happened 5 years later I don’t think they wouldn’t be successful or as successful

[@cardcaptorclaire]

This video started like in the middle of something I have no idea wtf they're even talking about two minutes into it.

[@LunatheMoonDragon]

I never thought I'd see a picture of Rhett and Link and Mr Safety in the same room! He is OLD youtube!

[@tirzah9929]

I love this discussion.

[@artist45]

I am so proud of both of you (I hope that doesn’t sound condescending). I admire your honesty and your ability to change. Much respect

[@jacobcoltart580]

Judgement is a sin also the Bible says not to judge because of people’s sins. Jesus loves all. We should also love all and guide them to salvation when we can.

[@VoxRatio]

I grew up in a very religious household, and have remained very religious. I’ve always had an appreciation for history, sciences etc. Especially ancient cultures and religions. I can see and understand where they’re coming from even though I never once found myself struggling with any of those things. I would think about ideas that came my way or new philosophy’s etc and would find the kernels of truth and the beautiful nature of them. If they had any that is. I don’t believe anyone has to be agnostic, atheist etc to be a truth seeker, or to have ‘real’ experiences. I don’t think you have to be a believer to have them either. I believe truth is universal and it manifest itself according to our understanding and circumstances in a way we comprehend at that time. As we look back our perception and interpretation of that manifestation will change. It will in a way re-manifest if you will, and brighten that pathway further so we can see more clearly. I hope they find what truth they need. I hope we all do. God bless.

[@brandonneal5051]

I have so much more respect for all 3 of them at the table

[@preacherduderox]

As a Christian, I related to this too much. Thank you.

[@RobinFlysHigh]

When exactly did you guys realize this? Because Stevie has been with you for years, and isn't she gay?

[@alisae3455]

RobinFlysHigh they started the journey of leaving religion before they even moved to California in 2011 and they didn’t start working with Stevie until 2013

[@Shucksofficial]

It takes a lot of bravery to do what they did and I genuinely appreciate it, as part of the LGBTQ+ community, but also hopefully more people will realize that religion only divides people. It’s hard to come out against Christianity in any way because so many people are Christians and they have such an influence in all areas of society. It can be a scary thing to go against that. It makes me respect them even more. ❤️

[@alexanderb4818]

I agree. I can especially agree with the past few sentences in your comment. I know somebody who got treated poorly as an 8 year old in school by his TEACHER because he accidentally let it slip that his father was an atheist. It got so bad that he had to move to a new school.

[@Dogbrainsyndrome]

This man was preeeeeeeaching

[@Inhellization]

I love these guys.

[@helenarosno]

Character development. But seriously, I'm proud of these guys for coming so far. My family is still very close minded about the lgbtq+ community and it's really sad, but also kind of laughable at times

[@playin4power]

Quote: "All Christians are on the spectrum." -Link 8:44 (This is a joke, it's actually a fascinating discussion that I think a lot of people can learn from!)

[@Coentjemons]

This is a very interesting video to watch after hearing both link and Rhetts stories.

[@riskigost2759]

One thing I don't understand about a lot of western religions(mainly because those are the ones I've been exposed to and have some knowledge on), including Christianity, is that many of the people in these religions believe their religion in 100% correct, and everyone else is completely wrong. However, despite this belief that what they believe is completely correct, the beliefs and standards of many of these religions change with society's standards. It's kind of like some religions are just a few decades behind. Just like Rhett said, the church had to be convinced slavery was bad. Christians from perhaps the 1700s may have thought it was ok, and justified it with their beliefs. However that belief changed over time. Christians from 300 years ago would have very different beliefs from Christians today, yet they would all still think they are 100% correct in their beliefs, despite the fact that even though they don't want to admit it, their beliefs do change and evolve with society, just more slowly because the people belonging to them are resistant to change.

[@Samtheman2333]

I love the God of the bible. It’s popular in these comments by former believers and “fundamentalists” to say they fell away from the faith because of discrimination against certain groups. I have two verses to share: John 13:35 “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." 1 Corinthians 5:12 “ What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?” God bless, peace and love, have a nice day.

[@IceMetalPunk]

I have two other verses to share: Deuteronomy 21:18-21 and Matthew 5:18-19. Just because there are nice verses, that doesn't make up for the terrible ones.

[@carlingnugent]

People get their morals from the culture they're in not their crappy religious books - which is why they cherry pick what "sins" align with their prejudices and ignore the ones that are silly about wheat and barely and junk. Rhett and Link acknowledging that their religion did the opposite of making them kind - it made them judgemental. I've never met a nice fundamentally religous person but it's good to see that they can grow out of it and become better people.

[@theDreadedBlur]

Agnostic Atheists, where you at?

[@vitXras]

Here. I'm here

[@kuromi8384]

Post upppp

[@pmshrevecomm]

I've had a similar story to these dudes. I grew up fundamental until i was 17. I just feel sorry for kids like me that were terrified of questioning the beliefs and value systems. As fundamentalist children, faith was the biggest virtue pushed on you. They view it as a character strength, and questioning too much was turned into doubt and "thinking you know better than God." Hell, gaining knowledge of good and evil from the apple was the FIRST sin. That's how these people look past their empathy and assign value-judgements to all the LGBTQ and anyone else that offends them and their weird blood cult of a religion(s). It sucks to examine your deeply held belief system when deep down, it's all a house of cards. Fundamentalists take the bible 100% literally, and when you question the validity of one verse, the rest collapse shortly after. But on the other side of it I finally feel like my good deeds actually mean something, as opposed to having someone watching over me and keeping tabs. I don't know what happens when i die, but i know that I developed into a more loving, honest, and well-rounded person than i would have ever been as a thiest of any sort.

[@pmshrevecomm]

@Traditional Catholic they ate the fruit to gain the knowledge of good and evil. That was the whole intent behind eating the fruit. You have to understand this, right?