When NF Shocked Christian Hip-Hop

[@SSC_The_Real_Noah]

As a Christian, if you aren’t called to do something anymore don’t do it. Listen to the Holy Spirit. He hasn’t rapped about anything explicit he just makes stuff different from praise and worship music. He is a light and a beacon of hope for people like Jesus was. Just because he’s no longer a “Christian rapper” doesn’t mean he isn’t Christian and we shouldn’t flame him

[@BrotherDave80]

he said himself he doesn't know what he believes. He needs to be born again dude

[@Christcorepunkfan]

@@BrotherDave80honestly really sad and I pray he goes back to God.

[@Legendarysam101]

@@SSC_The_Real_Noah I agree with your comment man

[@RoshNoteApp]

You haven't seen his interview, didn't ya? After hearing him speak about it I'm pretty sdure he has no idea what he believes now. He admits it himself. He is a "cultural Christian"

[@TheDeeStain]

He clearly is living of the world.

[@MurphGOE]

I’m honestly with Ruslan. I think he has been a Christian, who got started in the Christian genre, which helped him take off, but I don’t think he wanted to be put in a box, which a lot of other Christian rappers have vocally said as well. He has clearly had tons of depression and hurt, and he never got proper healing until what sounds like the “Hope” album. I do wish he was just upfront with where he was, because it’s not clear at all, but at the same time, he doesn’t owe us that. What makes me somewhat hopeful as well, is that his wife will post scripture and faith based things on her IG story sometimes, from what I’ve heard and been able to see a few times. I pray He loves the Lord and has his faith is in Jesus.

[@agentkalos152]

He did in his own unique way. The intro to every album links back to another. For example in NF’s Album Hope in his music Video 3:06 he shows back up in his First big Album Mansion. In that album the song right after Mansion is NF first album song called All I have. Which he clearly says “I stand behind these words, I’m a Christian but I’m not perfect.” NF is most likely alluding to that his next Album will most likely lean back towards the lord one way or another. Look at his song happy he mentioned God in the song. And the final song Running makes me believe he his indeed done running from the lord and his past. His next Album will be worth keeping an eye out for.

[@MurphGOE]

@ I agree. Hope seemed like he was doing better mentally and like he was happier, and also talked more about God than in past albums.

[@ExposingBethel]

Ruslan is a luciferian. Watch his FAMILY RING...that he wears. Isiah 8:20 To the LAW and the Testimony, if a man doesn't come speaking according to these words,there is no TRUTH in him.

[@imanimalaika7734]

Rusland is an entertainer, above everything else. He will tell you what you want to hear. I detest attention whores.

[@jml5100]

He's not a Christian. His lyrics have shown he doesn't even understand the basics of the faith. Also, has he ever even claimed to be Christian?

[@NickBrennanA]

The Christian walk isn't all sunshine and rainbows. "Take up your cross and follow me" wasn't a pleasant command to receive. Even for myself, my darkest depression and the closest I've ever been to pulling the literal trigger began 6 years into my walk with Christ. He led me there. And even though I'm no longer holding the gun to my head, I haven't been happy in a long time. Even still, through all my struggles in keeping right with the Lord, I've never walked away from Him. I believe NF is in a similar space. And in a world wrought with deeply depressed people, music like his resonates on a different level. I know from the experiences in my own life that reaching out to the lost with a true understanding of their darkness and hurt reaches much further than "He'll fix all your problems and make you happy." They don't receive that quite as well as seeing someone struggle so clearly, yet refusing to give up on Jesus.

[@jasonmccubbin8193]

I’ll be praying for you. Fighting spiritual warfare and rebuking sin isn’t enjoyable or fun to do, but it’s the right thing to do because we’re learning how to be like Christ. Remember though you have the power of Joy and Peace through the Holy Spirt. Happiness is an emotion, which the Apostle Paul states to not rely on emotion, but the power of the Spirit. Emotions are temporary, but the Spirit is eternal and will never let you down.

[@god563616]

My thing is Is he still a Christian or not? Thats the real question. I remember when I left a toxic church and instead of congregants asking if im ok they immediately assumed I was out in the world and left God because they couldn't physically see me doing what God was doing in the inside of me. Lets keep our eyes on Jesus, pray for him and not judge.

[@sirianfelixbrightonesquire3247]

Well out, I must admit I was doing some judging myself.

[@TheUntitledTagGamer]

He is still chrsitian judging on the lyrics of his newest songs

[@BREEZ3_shorts]

He has multiple mentions of God on his album hope and clouds

[@BrD4GOD]

Sounds like he needs truth in love, right? Love isn't an enabler or love also doesn't let you run into traffic on the freeway. Sometimes love tells the truth. Proverbs says correction from a friend is better than a kiss from an enemy. So if a friend reaches out to me, or if people are concerned, those are good people. The critical ones might have a point. Personally I'd listen to everyone. Wise advice that comes from a council, this, especiially one such as large as this, is a blessing from God. Yes pray for him, absolutely, but He gives us free will at the end of the day. Don't look at people and God like they're the same thing.

[@hotopics877]

@@god563616 HE RAPS WITH EMINEM NOW HES NOT A CHRISTIAN ANYMORE

[@BarsAndBeatsEntertainment]

never thought about it that way til this video but Nate was truly ahead of his time, the space's fanbase wasn't ready for that kind of honesty and transparency when he was getting started. great ending bro

[@zteir]

I disagree lol, I think that space would have been hype for Nate if he stayed and was transparent about his life. I disagree fully haha

[@BarsAndBeatsEntertainment]

@@zteir ik what you mean, and yes they would have eventually but at the time nate started CHH was not very transparent about mental health. Sure people would've like him, like younger listeners but the overall space audience didn't know how to digest bros art

[@JZmixerbeats]

​@@zteirNah bro look at what they did to Lecrae, U can't do what u feel in CHH, U are a servant for a certain culture, Im not saying it's bad or good, But it's okay if u don't feel that too

[@zteir]

@@JZmixerbeats I think you are wrong lol, what happened to lecrae? He seemed to go a little woke but still popped off and is one of the biggest chh artists out there no matter what you say homie.

[@JZmixerbeats]

@zteir u didn't get me bro, they accused lecrae for not having enough Jesus in his music, he was depressed becuz of that Listen to Fear and deconstruction, Why becuz, People want to control us actions, when u r in the zone of CHH rapper, a place which they are the only one who defines it.

[@memuno6281]

NF had a impactful short run as a Christian traditional artist between 2013 to 2017. After Therapy Session blew up with, he just received a larger fanbase that still follows him. In a time when Eminem was not consistently making musically adored music between 2014 to 2019, he was the one bring the “old school Eminem” energy. everyone is niching down in the industry right now, so his current work is good his fans that got introduced to him at a peak in his musical career.

[@LIKEMIKEGG7]

Christians should look at it in a way as a blessing cause more people listen to NF. And hes helping the people that need help

[@Drkfire_Yt]

The Christian music industry wont tho, they dont care about ppl being christian just that they act the part. Theres so many artists in the christian music genre who dont believe and actually r atheists or satanist its ridiculous. The industry only cares about money and perception nothing else and NF was great for both and as a christian im honestly glad hes away from that part of the industry and can hope he isnt around so many ppl anymore who can taint his beliefs and him as a person.

[@Fihyyhvcffggcfffa7961]

facts

[@UNKNWN96]

When I was dealing with depression in college, I was listening to a ton of Kid Cudi and it made me feel WAY worse. NF's music on the other hand made me want to actually do better and get healthy. I remember blasting it in the gym and feeling inspired to want to do better. I was already saved so it went from NF to CHH and finding similar types of music. Still love NF and identified that his music was more of a bridge for me to get back to where I needed to be. After a while, I just knew I needed more Jesus and started listening to other artists more.

[@cameronwilliams3092]

I have been following NF since he was bleach blonde and wearing ties and I can tell you he never gave me the vibe he was a christian rapper but a rapper who had faith in Christ. It is literally reflected in all his albums that way. The christian community didn't want to share him was the problem. His identity was never fully CHH like other Christian artist. The clip of Ruslan and Nobigdyl irritates me. There's no hypocrisy when he's been stating it from the first album: "Paralyzed" - Album: Mansion (2015) "Oh Lord" - Album: Therapy Session (2016) "Intro 3" - Album: Perception (2017) "Why" - Single (2018) "Only" (featuring Sasha Sloan) - Album: The Search (2019) "Remember This" - Album: Perception (2017) This is music with a story... his story is about a man who has had hardships "like" Eminem but found God on the way and struggles with that relationship like Hopsin (hence why he hopped on a song). Christian Hip Hop may have help get him off the ground but not once did CHH nor did the Christian space own him. Lecrae and NF are not the same in their walks. Crae was Christian first and rapper second and NF was always a rapper first christian second and you can see that clear as day if you go back and listen to the music

[@favourfriday7459]

You didn't get the point. No one is saying he was never a Christian from the onset. He is a rapper who was a Christian(past tense). Nf currently doesn't acknowledge his Christian root. Technically he shys away from the question when confronted unlike before when he would boldy say "he's a rapper who is a Christian". I'm not condemning him but he obviously needs help. He clubs and party now which is sad..

[@tasha3939]

@@favourfriday7459wait for real? Ain’t no way he clubs and party. Dude got two kids and a wife when you married ain’t no time for clubbing and partying. 🤷🏾‍♀️ I never knew NF as long as I know him through songs that he was the club and partying type.

[@mxwx51]

Nah, if you've actually heard I'm Free, then I think you're way off base. Xist is strictly a Christian label -- their motto is God First, Then Music -- and his lyrics were very much rooted in faith and Christianity.

[@odencustoms102]

I agree 100% with you and well said

[@odencustoms102]

@@favourfriday7459 I don't think you get the point or understand music, possibly both. First, NF has said he is not a Christian rapper but rather a Christian that rap. Your claim that Nf does not acknowledge his faith is where I have the true problem with because it is 100% false and these are from his last album Hope and just a few lines where he speaks on it. Maybe not in a way you would like, but honestly he doesn't owe you anything. He is helping people who was lost and bringing them closer to God in a way, very few can. "it's amazin' What a little bit of faith can do if you don't even believe in you" "Talk to God like what's next for me." " Called up to God and I asked Him, "You watchin' my back?", He ain't say nothin' back, but I heard what He said" As to your club and party claim, please provide a source, just a single one that shows , says or even mentions NF "clubbing". It seems to me you consider yourself a Christian but with your judgements on another person and what I perceive as false claims until you show me otherwise , you may want to take a look in the mirror.

[@AcousitcChill]

NF honestly saved my life when i was younger and really introduced me to christianity.

[@hhr_016]

Maybe if he could see this comment he would turn back to God

[@stephendverner]

I found his music a few years ago. I was immediately impressed by his ability to go deep into his emotions and be sincere. So many of the Psalms are extremely sad. So I see how NF felt like modern CCM always wants you to put a bow on everything, but that’s not how life works. I hope more people connect to his music and to God.

[@AmyDaugherty98]

I agree NF shouldn’t really be classified as a typical Christian rapper. However, this is a lyric from “Let Em Pray” which is off his most recent album: “I need to meditate I ain't got no room to grow, I would never say Conversations with the Lord should be everyday” I also appreciate the fact that even though he’s not explicitly Christian his music is still clean and therefore I will continue to support it, whatever genre people want to classify him as.

[@actualnotanewbie]

2:33 I feel like there's an unfortunate cost to being a trailblazer in the CHH space. Many people still haven't forgiven Lecrae for not going the "theological rap" route, for exampele.

[@insidemymindinc]

It’s true crae has really found his balance and people still got their dumb judgments against him assuming he’s a fake Christian. It’s like bro he had every opportunity and every album still talks about gospel of Jesus as the center theme everytime

[@DC-gh6dy]

Lecrae promoting Cardi B and attending secualr and VERY sin filled industry parties didn't help him at all. The man is losing his way little by little, all to be accepted by an industry that is actively hostile to God's message.

[@actualnotanewbie]

@@DC-gh6dy see there it is.

[@insidemymindinc]

@ dawg that perspective is so 2016. Haven’t you seen all his last albums and his podcast? Dude is only honoring the Lorz

[@LorySerrano-t6j]

I could relate to NF when he said something along the lines of "christians want to make you feel like everything is OK" , and that dissonance he had within himself to write "happy" endings to songs when the issues he'd write about were not yet resolved, is valid. Perhaps he didnt have to go full blown secular, but also it probably was the only outlet he found to be as authentic and raw as possible with his pain!!. Maybe, he could've taken David's approach, and shed the same pain within the context of praise still. Like, Its okay to say "God im hurting"It's okay to say "God im not healed, yet." But NF did go through trauma, he NEEDED the outlet. along the way he found others who could empathize and relate to that pain! Maybe he'll find his way back around to God, but thats essentially between him and God. Dont believe that just cuz an artist is in the christian music industry its all about Christ for them. it's still an industry. its still strategic planning to make as much $ as possible, its an INDUSTRY. NF walking with God should NOT be confirmed if he returns to a particular religious industry. In the end its his journey and fight, which i respect and will not condemn him. The world is not daisy's and roses and peaches . Its brutal. And christians have a way of not wanting to hear that realness of sin/trauma/betrayal/distress , and just hear joy/cookie cutter/PG stuff, completely invalidating someone's distress and agony for the sake of believing in censorship🤷🏽‍♀️. NF should be okay, praying for him.

[@Holy_Toons]

You're on point! When I found God during my depression, I felt a lot better... like I was healed overnight. Some days, I didn't feel good, I wondered what was wrong. I wanted to pretend everything was okay, I was scared of doubting. One of the biggest things I've learnt is that being a Christian doesn't mean everything will suddenly be okay. I resonate with the psalms a lot. David was described as a man after God's heart, but still he was that sad. I've learnt that the best way to respond to this is to take it to God not to obsess over it. I found that the more I kept focusing on my sadness the deeper I went in it. Worship also happens when we're covered in filth, broken and crying to God, "Lord, I'm not okay" I always get reassurance, hope, a reason to keep going. I know every day is a day to fight it. Life isn't a fairytale, it won't just go away. Plus, my faith in God isn't based on how I feel. I know I digressed a lot 😅 but I really felt impacted by your comment

[@jml5100]

He didn't take the David path because he's not a Christian and doesn't understand the most important parts of Christianity. Now, maybe the Christians he was around did a poor job of explaining or living it out, but it doesn't change the fact that he doesn't understand it.

[@butt3rcat]

A lot of Christians have this toxic positivity mindset where everything has to go right or else something's wrong. Everyone from Adam and Eve to Jesus and the disciples went through a bunch of hardships. The Bible never said that being a Christian means you never have to deal with the rough parts. God never gives people what they want immediately because He wants us to grow spiritually first. The walk with Christ is never easy, but it's worthwhile.

[@Jableenis-by8fy]

The Christian music industry isn’t necessarily all sunshine and rainbows. 🤷‍♂️ There has been plenty of liberal support for the sinful lifestyles that the Bible is explicitly against. NF wants nothing to do with this mainstream “Christian” music industry and wants to do his own thing. Him not being labeled as a “christian rapper” anymore has made his music more approachable and he has been able to reach far more people. Signing to corporate so called “Christian” companies isn’t the only way to be a light in the dark world of music, and it would be naive to think so.

[@zteir]

honestly I agree with this man!

[@sirianfelixbrightonesquire3247]

Than may he remain a Christian artist in a world that’s not, and won’t change like other artist who felt this was the same path.. like Evanescence, 12 stones, POD, Chevelle, DC Talks, Paramore, Hawk Nelson? In fact I think the only artist to pull this off is “six pence none the richer” from the last I heard. There’s actually worldly bands that pull off being Christian better than some Christian bands like “We Came As Romans” We came as Romans never claimed to be Christian but all their songs are uplifting positive and if you dig deep into the lyrics you’ll see Christian themes and values, as a worldly band they could blend in with the Christian world better than a some Christian bands would.

[@highway2heaven91]

@@sirianfelixbrightonesquire3247Regarding DC Talk- Only Kevin Max isn’t a Christian anymore. Michael Tait and TobyMac are still Christians.

[@bobburger7724]

Cope

[@DwainPunnett15]

How can he be a light when he not leading no one to christ none his music point people to christ he raps about everything people go through in life that's why people relate to him but he never give a solution to the problems. Someone you be so blinded just because they are your favorite artist no matter what they do you not seeing the wrong they are doing if you no longer saying you doing christian music or not a Christian artist then you are for the world. What is Christian music or being a Christian artist is using the platform to bring people to christ and for those who are even Christian's to come closer to God. But say what you still will disagree

[@Servant_of_Yeshua96]

We just have to look at the fruit. The issue God showed me with his music was that it stopped glorifying God, rather it stayed with him rapping in darkness. I agree it helped me at first, but as I began to listen to what God wanted, He showed me His music heals, and artists like NF, just keeps you there in that darkness, because we think it's cathartic to actually listen to things that feed our pain. It's not helping it's trapping. Now King David did express his pain, but he glorifies God everytime. If we aren’t using our gift to glorify God, we are using to glorify ourselves or the devil. I hope NF begins to see what God wants to use him for. I really hope he sees what God wants to do.

[@codfishbones]

You missed the whole point of NF: his music is his therapy, his diary. He is humble enough to put raw emotion out to the world, and let others hear they are not alone. We get to walk through his grieving and healing with him. Anyone that has massive trauma can relate to the time it takes to recover and begin to feel hopeful. He isn’t stuck in darkness. If you’ve been listening from the beginning, you’ll hear growth and healing and hope, and yes, God. Not every Christian walks around saying “hallelujah.” Jesus certainly didn’t.

[@KillerKnightChannel]

I feel like a lot of people get Christian rap and a rapper that's Christian mixed up. Just because NF doesn't cuss in his songs doesn't mean he's a Christian rapper, and just because a bunch of rappers do cuss in their music doesn't mean their not Christian. It's kinda the same with Skillet. They're not a Christian rock band, they're just a rock band that's Christan

[@Meyer-gp7nq]

My guy did you just say Skillet is not a Christian rock band? John Cooper would probably disagree about that know buddy

[@mariowalker9048]

NF hadn't been in the traditional chh scene in a while. He pretty much was the white counterpart to Lecrae where he doesn't identify with chh, but his fans did. NF music always came off as emotional therapy rap to me.

[@hey777-sx4cn]

Awesome comment❤❤ I call it metal health rap. NF has helped a lot of people going through stuff in life.

[@sirianfelixbrightonesquire3247]

To be honest first time I heard NF, I felt he told everything from Eminem and the only way to get away with it was to be Christian. NF straight up using flows, and words that Em would use. How he structures his verses, He looks kinda like Em, NF voice sounds identical to Em’s, which to be far he can’t help that if he really does sound like him, NF even uses his Initials for his name like Eminem Eminem=MNM- Marshal Nathan Mathers. So I assumed some Christian label scooped NF up based solely on you could mistake this artist work for someone else and you might buy it. At least in my opinion.

[@garykoda5959]

His albums have sounded to me like a journey... I eagerly await where he is using his lyrical expertise to "EXPLICITLY" praising the Lord. In my opinion, his "message" is there but what a joy to see the "other side"... Wish I could be an intimate brother to walk through it with him. Lord, please make it be. -amen.

[@Gigi-Jones]

How about we be grateful for the music he's given us, leave the door open and keep him in prayer. I still introduce non-believers or those who believe but are caught up in the world to "Start Over" - through the Holy Spirit, that one song has brought hardcore G's to their knees and lifted the heartbroken up. IF he is having some type of spiritual crisis, shouldn't those of us who call ourselves Christians be more concerned with his salvation than career choices? Remember we leave the 99 and go after the 1- speculation and judgements aren't going to bring him back if he's fallen away. Pray for him..don't; prey on him.

[@justinmalfroid5087]

That part!!!

[@JoeRojasJNPMultimedia]

As a Christian and Music Creator, It becomes difficult for an artist to be truly artistic in CCM. Christian Music Artists are expected to Make music with Puff Lyrics and Puff sounds and not "Step Out Of Line" with that. This is the reason why Christian Artists end backsliding or do dumb things that ruin their testimony. Music is supposed to be an art, a vehicle of expression to connect with people, not just a way for others to make money. Michael Sweet Of Stryper made his own path and still has relevance as a Musician and a Christian. If NF got tired of "Preaching To The Choir" and taking the message of Christ to the masses, good on him. Also, we as Christian musicians need to stop "Pigeon Hole-ing" ourselves and take our music to those who will not set foot in a church. We can reach the lost, if we are allowed to go outside the 4 walls of the church.

[@intermidable]

NF has said it ad nauseum -- he was not and is not a Christian rapper; he is a rapper with a formidable faith in Jesus. And he reaches so, so many more people this way.

[@mxwx51]

It's weird when these guys sign to a Christian label like Xist, make very faith oriented Christian music, and then say, "Nah, I was never a Christian artist" after they blow up. NF isn't the first, and their career often takes a nosedive afterward... We shall see what happens to him. His shtick got old for me really quickly anyway...

[@jt_picks]

I've been waiting for this one😁

[@MatthewEdington-fn5jh]

The seed has been planted in NF ... This is apart of his testimony. We shall pray for him .. the Lord are God guided him to music for a purpose...

[@judahbusby]

This music is not just for people who sit in the pews and pray at the churches Nah therapy session 2016

[@IkeSmith-sz3er]

Notice his music over the years, he used to be deep in depression and talk about it a lot, now listen to hope. He’s using his music to help him too. This music is saving his life

[@ethanhaugen435]

Keep up the good work David! God's got You.

[@MasterYoduhhh]

The only hope is in the gospel of Jesus Christ and the free gift of salvation. Romans 5:18 KJV 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life.

[@kane6529]

Sweet baby J redeems 💪🏻

[@PickyThePickaxe]

NF's music has helped me thru my own depression and i will be so disapointed if he walks away from his faith. I am praying that he is still walking with the Lord and that fear doesn't take over.

[@randdeardorff]

Having heard the Hope album, I fully believe he still at least considers himself a Christian. Whether he truly acts that out or not, I can't really say.

[@kapesa.witness5262]

NF is still constantly covered by Christian hip hop media like he never left and I don't think they should cover his stuff as if it is CHH because he has made a conscious choice to leave the genre. That doesn't mean he has left the faith and I hope he is doing well with his walk with God. God told me the plan for my own personal music is to be used as grass roots within the community and to never use it to exalt myself, only exalting Him. That's not to say God's plan is the same for anyone else. The debate between NF and lecrae is tricky. Race probably does play a big part although it shouldn't. But also Lecrae seems to relish in being seen with lots of celebrities more and has some questionable symbolism from time to time but only God knows people's intentions. I hope they are both being spirit led

[@JediMasterEzio]

Because he isn't Christian Rap, he is a rapper who happens to be a Christian. I'm Atheist, and NF is my favorite rapper right now, and has been for a few years.

[@kaidoyt1990]

"Where he will find true hope" is a bar, thinking about Nate’s latest releases and their search for hope

[@geraskalnas1722]

how ironic that sounds😶‍🌫

[@Agoraz123]

Sometimes the church can in a way tell the hurting to put a smile on your face and act like everything is great when it isn’t, that’s religion. The man needed healing and I believe God was and is healing him. His songs reached and will continue reaching a hurting people who feel on the outskirts of the church. I thank God for that! ♥️

[@soulphoenix13]

Just because an artist is Christian doesn't arbitrarily direct them to make worship music all the time. In fact, NF has become more relatable to non-Christians due to his style and content, and perhaps this has opened them up more to the possibility of following Christ, seeing how faith has guided NF in his tumultuous life. The man has had a lot of pain and darkness in his life. While God is love and Jesus saves, we still have to navigate the dark, and it gets messy. Very messy at times. As he navigates, an artist like NF has the talent to beautifully narrate, and he's keeping it real. As strong as my faith is, when I write my own poetry, there is material that is indeed darker, but it is necessary because it is real, and it is therapeutic to release it and share it. I know God has my back because he saved me from taking my own life, but to expect me to write only worship poems to express myself and not mix it up a bit is just so wrong. When I published my first book on Amazon, "Plight of an American Poet" I tried to manifest the latter. As a teen, I was damaged and lost, but not lost enough to see God's hand reaching out to me. Most of the poems are from my younger years, and yeah, the despair is there, but that's OK. It is not a sin to doubt in our darkest days, it is a sin to deliberately turn away. Some Christians are too rigid and judgmental, which is very discouraging to potential followers. If we are to be more like Christ, we must end the hypocrisy that exists in certain Christian circles.

[@Mr.conserv]

This isn’t new. I actually like that his music is clean and it’s raw. He still mentioned God buts he’s transparent in his music he should talk to God more. Idk I guess I have a different perspective. He just makes music on his obstacles in his life. He’s not cursing talking about sex drugs and things like that so I appreciate him and appreciate his voice in the community. I do love when he talks about God don’t get me wrong

[@amishmuscle2536]

He mentioned he's a rapper that's Christian, that's totally cool. He also asks no collab to cuss in his music… his albums are fire! He will reach more people going mainstream.

[@cjadream7]

👉 Idk what planet a lot of these people came from, but have they not heard of Amy Grant, Kirk Franklin, the entire Winans family, Andrae Crouch, Michael W. Smith, DC Talk, PID, T Bone...? ...The list goes on much longer than many know. Artists like these grew a fan base-- pre-social media even-- as CHRISTIAN ARTISTS. Not only that, but while being labeled "Christian artists", they also had songs/hits w/ lyrics that weren't strictly the Gospel message. They created stories, they sang & rapped about life, etc. and it all sounded awesome too. What's amazing is that a lot of their popular songs DID include the Gospel and ended w/ messages of hope & faith. I think if NF does have strictly a creative difference of wanting to rap about despair and unhappy endings, I totally get his position and it makes sense business-wise & creatively to go the secular route. My frustration is w/ the weak argument of CHH at some unspoken point (no one ever gives the timeframe) being cheesy. On the Gospel side, let's take Tramaine Hawkins' "Fall Down" as an example...it was a popular CLUB HIT in the 80s-- talking about the Holy Spirit falling down fresh on us! There are so many examples I can give where there were hit songs made on the vast Christian side of the music industry. (It's larger than even the execs allow it to be). I think EVERYONE needs to 1) first educate themselves. Christian music is actually a vast umbrella and doesn't begin or end w/ CHH or Gospel rap allegedly being cheesy. Our Christian singers can run rings around the majority of secular artists. You can be just as impactful as CHH artists; 2) realize by way of this that it is possible to be a Christian and a Christian artist, yet still have cool lyrics that fit any mold you as an artist need for it to. I really like NF (learned about him much later than many) and have no problem listening to secular artists as long as they're clean, but I'd like to see more respect from current & former Christian artists towards their fan base, as we continue to stick w/ THEM.

[@highway2heaven91]

Christian Music only started to get seriously noticed in the last 20 years, so many of the legacy Christian singers that got big before then are virtually unknown to most people outside of longtime Christian Music fans.

[@Legendarysam101]

I personally still think hes a christian, and he probably left like hes reasons said "he didn't like that had to be all positive"(not those exact words though), he still talks about God ,i just see it as his own path God is leading him through, not everbodies stories or journeys have to be the same.

[@ehdforlife]

I'm thankful his music can reach the WORLD and not just Christians who may not need to hear what he has to say. Jesus came for the sick and not the healthy.

[@Evensy2]

Start over was the first song I heard NF and was my first Chritian Rap son I heard.I'm still a fan to some of his music I guess the last albumn i heard was Perception

[@omoshofcourse]

i think this can be used as ammo someday if he ever gets into a rap beef and he'll have to actually address it

[@TheDeeStain]

Never ever would have put him as a christian rapper. Hes just living for himself

[@domacero6514]

Don’t care what anybody says about NF he is one talented artist makes some of the most deep music I’ve ever heard especially if you go watch them in person it’s something else and he might not be working with Christians anymore or going to those venues, but he didn’t leave. Christ he still drops hi to it even in his new album. Is this more mainstream that’s all

[@afkoppauthor]

I just hate that Christians get so weirded out about Christian artists wanting to branch out. I'm a Christian and was in a band that played in bars. Our music was one of hurt and hope and real struggles and many people were touched. We can't do our job to spread the gospel if we are stuck in the walls of church and Churchdom media. I think it's cool that I can talk to anybody (whether Christian or not) and most have heard of NF.

[@jerrygarcia1697]

My music is not just for people who sit in the pews and pray at the churches,nuff said

[@quincyhicks8219]

NF is a Christian who raps. Stop spreading nonsense

[@superjelo]

I never classified him as a Christian rapper tbh

[@sirianfelixbrightonesquire3247]

I had a friend tell me he was a Christian artist, I’ve only heard a few songs from him but I always got the since he’s Christian in the least possible way. Like in one song where he’s talking about attacking everyone with his music “okay I heard him say Lord in the song one time and he talks about not being in his casket when he dead. Using Christian logic I can vaguely determine he’s talking about going to Heaven.” I don’t believe every Christian song needs to be a worship song, but he always felt like Christian Eminem-Lite Christianity is the only thing he brought that was different to the table, if want to listen to a non Christian Eminem I’ll listen to Marshall Mathers

[@ThisIsWizardsHandle]

Great ending to this video

[@ServentOfYahusha7]

There are a lot of people claiming to be disciples but their just pretenders. Not everyone will finish the race.

[@odencustoms102]

I am honestly at a loss as to why you would think this video was even need, when NF tell you in his music. I found NF around 2021 and have listened to all his albums multiple times and have seen him in a concert. He has never said this and I have no way of knowing it in any way, but being a Christian myself and knowing how God opens doors for certain people for certain reasons, I do think the path he took was meant for him. His music is so relatable to so many people and if his faith could handle the challenge, he would be able to help so many more and bring them to the light through the journey of his music. Some Christians seem to think that him not labeling himself as a Christian Rapper is somehow bad or him distancing himself or him changing in a bad way. It's not like that, his music is meant for those who are in the dark or in a dark place and it brings them to the light. In his music though he says, He is not a Christian Rapper but is a Christian that Raps. IMO what I said above outlines that. Either way, no one can say NF has changed or is going down the wrong path and if you think you can or should, maybe you need to look at yourself.

[@serge.mp3]

What i have to say is I really thought he would turn to the right direction in Hope but he's trying to find Hope by himself and he believe success is "listening to what your heart says"? Thats really antibiblical. As an NF fan all i can do is pray for him but I'd love to see him one day singing about Jesus like on Start Over.

[@carsonthehill2033]

W comment

[@Mon-Ark]

I mean… he still does sing about Jesus in his music Have you heard CAREFUL? Song is a full anthem about how god has been there for him.

[@carsonthehill2033]

@@Mon-Ark yeah but he made a whole album called Hope released it on Good Friday, and didn’t have a single mention of Jesus on it though. I still like NF

[@serge.mp3]

@@Mon-Ark Yeah, I've heard Careful, he talks about the blessings on his life and all that (I don't like the Cordae verse at all), but I think it's different, name God in your lyrics and sing about Jesus, obviously not on every your songs you have to do that, but I think it's weird, I hope you get what I'm saying

[@Arcann-501]

This is exactly how I feel about NF! He really doesn't sing about Jesus in his music! He just mentions God, who could be anything to him!

[@robbyrockets1]

NF didnt hang out at Diddy parties like Lecrae did, thats why Lecrae got dragged by the community.

[@zteir]

I don't really agree with what NF has done. He should be highlighting christian artists especially people that helped him on his come up. I even disagree with his quote of "Everything is not OK" or whatever he said like look at Paul, clearly nothing was okay but he still as find joy and hope in Jesus because of his intimacy with God. I wish that he would make an album with bigger chh artists so that he can shed some light on how good they are, and like you said in the video Jon Keith and whatuprg are doing what he wanted to do but they have completely stayed in the chh scene and are still sharing the gospel which is what Nate is called to do as a follower (If he is one).

[@JesusSaves5500]

He got big. To the point where he was likely told, over and over, that he'll never get to the top promoting Christian values. Because the devil runs the music industry. The same will likely happen to Dax. He was, and still is, chasing the money. Its so disappointing. So frustrating. He had walked away from God in exchange for fame. Thats it. There is nothing else behind it. I would rather he never entered the Christian rap scene, at least then his thirst for fame would be more in line with everyone else. At least it would have been honest. He is not still walking with the Lord. He himself says he doesn't talk to God anymore and showed visible signs of embarrassment at even mentioning His name in an interview. He used God and Christians to gain a fan base. And once he got as far as that would take him he dropped it all. Theres no big money in Christian rap. You won't be buying million dollar cars and fancy jewelry with money from Christian hip hop. And Nate knows this.

[@jacobsonstudios]

NF never really made much “Christian music” under the name NF anyways, his most stereotypical Christian music was made under his full name on his moments album, and during that general era. He had one EP called “I’m Free” that was more Christian released under the name NF in 2012, its no longer available to stream though, and in 2014 he released his self titled EP, from that point on his music hasn’t really changed that much at all. It was well before he blew up that he stopped writing the stereotypical Christian music, aside from a few songs here and there. I think he probably left because he was never really supposed to be there anyways. He also probably didn’t like dealing with people telling him his music wast “Christian enough” because there’s a large subsection of Christian music fans who don’t treat Christians in the music industry very kindly if there music isn’t “just perfect,” just like Nate said in that interview.

[@duckbanks2195]

A lot of christian artist said that "Christian rap is corny". Truth be told it never was corny, there has always been quality artist in the genre that were dope going all the way back into the 80s. Some of the hit records were in hip hop like basketball by kurtis blow was originally written by Stephen wiley, one of the first CHH artist to be known at the time. It's just these artist didn't get much exposure on the mainstream side of things. But the mainstream was rocking with Christian hip hop even back when. LA posse case and point produced a lot of records for T-bone(they prod for LL Cool J).

[@prezken4937]

T-bone was awesome!! Demon Killa still one of my favorites of all time.

[@TheLaydib21]

We first went to a concert if his at a church back in the day..before he went BIG....we as a fam like his music even his very old old music...I like....

[@hypesportvids]

This was such a good video 🔥

[@germanviewpoint]

It's crazy how easily we can be tricked into thinking we're winning when we're actually drifting further away. The allure of instant gratification can be so strong, blinding us to the long-term consequences. We chase after fleeting pleasures, only to realize later that we've lost something far more precious. It's like trading a priceless eternal treasure for a lentil soup. . The devil is creative. But God is unbeatable. .

[@nottheoneneo9471]

I don't wanna be that guy but I'm gonna be that guy... it could really just be switching to for the money, it could really just be as simple as that

[@MrSgtRecon]

Yeah don’t be that guy, I don’t think NF did that just for the money. God took him in the right direction, he needed to branch out. He was raised Christian from what I know so it wasn’t really his own thinking so he needed this time away to find himself and it seems like with HOPE he is healing and in a right direction.

[@nottheoneneo9471]

@MrSgtRecon okay true, but also... maybe he did🤷🏽‍♂️

[@jmbeats3308]

NF entered the Christian rap space with a level of transparency and dark tones that was unprecedented. He never fit in and he made the right decision to branch out. He's noted numerous times what he sees his music as and how it completely differs from Christian artists. The Christian rap space seems very strict about what you need to and can't do. Nobody knew him then and he had just started his professional career compared to Lecrae, who'd been around way longer and was far more well-known. To add, I doubt he would be able to reach the amount of people he has now if he stayed in the Christian space. However, when NF branched out, it's important to note that practically nothing about him changed compared to when he started with Mansion (2015). There are many examples of artists who get into the larger leagues and become completely different people for the worse. NF still connects people through his music, tells powerful stories and messages that are educational and healthy with a presentation that will get the general audience engaged. It's better than feeding people negativity and hedonistic values.

[@rodrigobarba930]

Like many other Christian artists, they conveniently start separating themselves from the Christian community as their success grows.

[@jml5100]

Well, he's not a Christian, so...

[@rodrigobarba930]

@jml5100 anymore so...

[@jml5100]

@@rodrigobarba930 you can't lose salvation. Jesus said in John 6 that none can take those who are his out of his hands. Paul said in Romans that nothing in all creation can separate us from Him. We ourselves are part of creation, so we can't separate ourselves from Him. Being made right with God is not based on our actions. Ephesians 2.

[@robbyrockets1]

I've never considered him a Christian rapper, I've always considered him a brother in Christ thats growing in his faith, who happens to be really good hip hop artist. Love the positive messages in his music, people in the faith need to chill, and not act like the world.

[@joshottmann5656]

I don't blame NF one bit. the Christian fan base is the worst ever. You can sing about how you struggle with something in life, but as soon as you actually struggle with something in life they will cancel you cause you're not perfect like them..... Plus if he really wants to reach people the secular fan base is the way to go.

[@mcamp8211]

Christian’s aren’t perfect though either No one is

[@acapla.musick]

I'm not Christian myself. But NF is and always will be my #1 favorite artist

[@CuzzLightYear88]

I never considered him a “Christian rapper”. I love his music because it’s clean and has a good message.

[@drmrplant-ONE]

He may not be a Christian Rapper, but he is a Christian, and he is a Rapper. I believe the reason he distanced himself from Christian music is because his music isn't praise music. A lot of his songs are about being furious with God for the way things are turning out in his life. It's about his struggles, and it's not always going to be traditional Christian. Plus, he gets a bigger fanbase this way. As a Christian myself, I don't have a big problem with his decision.

[@ryanmartinson4531]

The Christian music scene is toxic. So are many, many of the fans. I know because I was a toxic fan, and a Christian musician. If your message doesn't exactly line up with the individual fan's beliefs or interpretation, you're quickly written off and canceled. Nate took his message to the audiences who needed it most. A good fan can recognize that and continue to cheer him on, regardless of the label he's on or the venues he plays.

[@luisrenta2550]

He just will go into the world and learn what he needs to learn. Thats life hopefully he doesn’t go off the path it does happen

[@holygroovearena]

David, pls do a video on Aligned Vision. I listen to them cos they teach the word through music Stopped listening to NF about a year ago. Maybe more

[@holygroovearena]

Konola, Zelijah Tishbite, Tee Supreme, etc

[@colewilliams6623]

Sounds to me like the man grew up and opened his eyes!

[@bronsontolliver9027]

Jesus didn't spend all his time in Church preaching to the choir. I rather like the idea of NF's thoughtful and upright music being taken to the dens of sinners. Just hope he's got good people around him and God above to keep him on the straight and narrow.

[@jbrosupra]

He's doing the same content and has a larger audience now. There's no problem

[@krisbenoit4421]

People he was never a Christian artist. He’s a rapper who doesn’t cuss in his music, and isn’t filthy in his music. He’s REAL when he raps. He uses how faith helped him through parts of his life. I’ve been listening to NF from the beginning. He’s a music genius, who raps with no filth. People assumed and put him out there as a Christian artist. He’s a person of faith who raps clean and is GREAT at doing what he does. He’s human

[@xSoySaucex]

It’s good he got out of the box. He is actually reeling more people in now than being in the box.

[@MathesMinistries]

Depression is from spirit the reason he has battled is because he hasn’t gotten free from the spirit and remains in bondage. Never thought he was the definition of what a Christian looks like

[@david0hinckley]

I never knew he was “officially” in the Christian scene. I like him having lyrical freedom to be dark. I connect more with darkness, while I can’t really connect with rappers like Toby Mac who are so “bright.” See Lamentations, most of the prophets, Ecclesiastes…very dark and fit well into existentialist and even nihilist literature. I just want his music to remain real and I hope he continues to seek God

[@id744]

Hip Hop culture is full of thorns... "As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful." Matt 13:22

[@fritzco55]

Which one of his albums was fully preaching Jesus? It feels like he was just using Christianity to make a name for himself. Maybe there is more to him. Maybe he'll draw others in, but it feels like he's being drawn in.

[@KoriRose-ef9ck]

The truth can spoken in love, so I say this with love. And I also ask for honest dialogue, because sometimes we as Christians don’t like having uncomfortable conversations. Has anyone considered that “race” has played a part in how there has been so much grace for NF given that he has openly denied, abandoned, and used the Christian faith to build his career? Lecrae has done the same thing if not more and longer than what NF has contributed to the space and yet NF gets labeled a trailblazer while Lecrae STILL gets labeled a fake. The bias is so clear, but people are afraid to call it like it is. You can say “Oh well, he has a different lane, he doesn’t have to exclusively say Jesus in his music”, BUT if Lecrae had done the same thing, which in some cases he has, while expanding beyond the space but has remained true and rooted to it, gets all the hate mail. Lecrae said that he was a rapper who is Christian well before NF hit the scene and he got cancelled for it. NF says it and is CREDITED for it? No one sees the bias in that? There is tolerance for NF amongst Christians way more than there is tolerance for Lecrae. Oh but wait, NF’s music is mostly centered around himself and how he’s the best, it’s competitive, everything opposite of the character we should display of Christ, but because he has a few songs about hope, fears, and depression nobody hears that. It’s selective. NoBigDly gave y’all the nice version of this perspective, and Ruslan has been very outspoken about it. NF raped, stole, and used the space and yet he was “before his time, trailblazing, innovative”, Lecrae has not only contributed to the space himself but has brought ALL of us the people we love and adore today i.e. KB, Trip Lee, Tadashii this list goes on. Not only from Reach, but Lecrae helped with the genre as a whole, look at all the dope Christian rappers today. Look at the fruit (Christian Rappers) from Lecrae’s tree, now look at NF’s tree and tell me who has impacted the space, kept it real, kept it holy, and kept it Jesus. We study everything Lecrae says to see if he says anything outside of Jesus in his music but we don’t hold NF to that same standard, why the bias? Are we more tolerant because he’s white? I’m honestly heartbroken by this because in the church there should be no bias. Yes, we are praying for NF and restoration of his faith in Jesus, but let’s celebrate Lecrae who has been consistent doing the SAME THING as NF but stayed true to the space and faith. We hold on to NF with patient endurance but we write off Lecrae with the quickness. With love, let’s talk.

[@MilaJ22]

Total agree with you there. While Nf may be a great rapper, sometimes we lose our way, and I believe he stopped rapping on account of God and was rapping for himself. Even if he didn't want to be in CHH category. Your living should still glorify God. Was watching him talking to fans at a concert and he was swearing. This def isn't to point fingers for we all have sinned. And he had a lot of trauma. The difference between him and Lecrae is that Crae changed, and took that trauma as a way to glorify God and show people the way out. While I feel as tho Nf music was more focusing on the trauma itself and relating to people, but he stopped directing the source of healing to Jesus. Truth can be said in love, and most tend to put up a wall instead of hearing the truth, and truth hurts, but if someone had an issue with their shirt, wouldn't it be better to correct them on it than stay silent? Nf is a great rapper, I just think all we like sheep, have gone astray, but Jesus leaves the 99 sheep for the lost one, and as long as he's willing, this could be the best testimony of his life which God can use to save more people than he ever imagined.

[@KoriRose-ef9ck]

@@MilaJ22 Very well said, my friend! Love how you expounded and redeemed! Thank you for chiming in. Blessings to you.

[@MilaJ22]

@@KoriRose-ef9ck Blessings to you as well! The journey isn't easy, but never give up, and don't lose hope!! I pray I meet you when we reach eternal life with God the father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

[@KoriRose-ef9ck]

@@MilaJ22 Amen! I appreciate you, I am praying the love, peace and strength of Christ for you! I am sure we will, and I look forward to that day when we worship Christ together 🏁

[@MilaJ22]

@@KoriRose-ef9ck ❤❤🙏🙏

[@thefunplace2b683]

First of all NF is not leaving Christian hip-hop or hip hop at all in general people have been finding linked unreleased songs that are going to be coming out when he is done with his album so he's releasing another album he's not leaving

[@jamescross1989]

I've never thought of NF as a Christian rapper. He is a rapper who is a Christian and honestly that's a far better way for him to spread The Gospel.

[@koolaidsalad]

the shift happened because his music went from focusing only on God to talking about his life and his experiences and his relationship with God through them. he never stopped being a Christian, but he understands the way get people to listen is to be transparent. just because every song isn't explicitly praising God doesn't mean he isn't still giving praise in his songs.

[@martinadaugherty2721]

You go were the Lord leads.

[@josephibarra570]

Hey bro you’re back!! It’s been a minute. Will you be posting frequently?

[@thefunson8087]

what is your salvation theology?

[@cliffordpurk18]

Well, the fact he spoke on the reason for this move being conviction lets me know he still loves and listens to God. God does work in mysterious ways, and this move doesn't mean he isn't christian.

[@KamakaziUnicorn]

Honestly we need more rapper who are Christian to be in clubs and bars. How else are the people there going to get a taste of what they can provide. Sometimes the message can get out there without being forced on someone. If one soul gets saved from one of the places he goes, it will all be worth it. Hopefully he is still with the faith.

[@tasha3939]

No no Christian should be going inside clubs. When John the Baptist was preaching he was preaching outside. All of these street preachers are preaching in the streets 🤷🏾‍♀️ going inside clubs and preaching doesn’t make any sense to me..God is always watching.

[@KamakaziUnicorn]

@tasha3939 the people inside are the ones who need to hear it. Also having someone with positive lyrics in there will remove the alternative, which would likely be way worse to hear. Jesus ate with sinners

[@Noobahmastah]

Last name "stein" - Who could have guessed

[@0711boomer]

I pray NF finds christ again, if christians pretends everything is always okay they are wrong. We have battles everyday, but we have to stay atrong in our faith. I believe NF fell into the wanting money the False God. I pray for NF 🙏

[@RobbDepp]

SHOUTOUT TO RUSLAN FOR KEEPING IT REAL!!!

[@Luxiedee13]

My husband (who loves CHH) always told me that NF was Christian but his music wasn’t exclusively Christian. He just happened to be Christian and a rapper but not a Christian rapper.

[@calebjason4454]

Honestly, the fact that he reaches more people and mentions god is better than being in a Christian bubble. Jesus came for the broken, not those who think they have it figured out, and that’s his mission, cause that’s who he relates to. God is still using him to this day and people who can’t see that are small minded

[@audivawalsh2983]

I like to think that God had other plans for NF. There's no way I'd have listened to NF or even heard of him if he was still with a Christian label. Quite a few people out there say that NF's music finds you when you need it. It was certainly that way with me, and I like to thank God for that.

[@samuelpike1248]

Speaking of Christian artists,Lecrae seems to me for whatever reason to have caved a bit lately. The guy formerly of Hawk Nelson a few years ago who renounced his faith(I forget his name,but I think it is John or something like that?). And it is true that there are some Christian artists out there who have caved to the world,and others who have stayed true. I think this guy has had some good songs over the years from what I heard like his song with Toby Mac titled Till The Day That I Die. But I would hope that if he is at all struggling with his faith that he just find a way to keep going. Who is the dude in the black shirt that was talking about NF? I do not recognize the name.

[@kumaSOevl]

He is an amazing artist. I’d listen to any genre his messages are still the same

[@redbeardonfire8252]

even strong Christians will falter its the nature of human but with god we will pick ourselves back up and move forward in hes word

[@LeviAntics]

I feel NF leaving the Christian hip hop scene is good because he can now reach more people who really need it

[@jurassicprimehalo241]

NF is probably still a Christian but he probably just wants to do different kinda themes of music