Wednesday, December 02, 2009 5:18 pm | Posted by DaSouth.com
On his new album Blueprint 3 Jay-Z has been receiving some "feedback" about his song "Empire State of Mind," which features Alicia Keys on the hook. Many have been concerned about a particular line in the song that seems to take a knock at Jesus Christ. Here is the excerpt from verse 3.
Mommy took a bus trip, now she got her bust out
Everybody ride her just like a bus route
Hail Mary to the city, you're a virgin
And Jesus can't save you
Life begins when the church ends
Some have argued that Jay-Z is being taken out of context and that he wasn't actually knocking Jesus or the church at all. Can anyone say beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jay-Z was knocking taking a shot at Jesus? No. BUT... Can what Jay-Z said be easily heard as saying "Jesus can't save you?" Most certainly. In other words, though Jay-Z may not have intended to "diss Jesus," he sure could've worded his message a little better.
What's Being Said Now?
Jay-Z may even be saying that himself now, as evidence in this performance that took place just last night during Alicia Keys LIVE World Aids Days benefit concert. Jay-Z changes the line by changing one word. It makes a world of difference. See it for yourself in the video below.
Instead of saying "And Jesus can't save you," Jay-Z says "And Jesus couldn't save you." This is MUCH better and we definitely commend Mr. Carter on being willing to make the change. That one little change makes a world of difference and even better conveys his original intent. At least saying "couldn't" means that he does save, but with this chick he was unable because she chose to live in darkness.
The Bottom Line
Why was any of this important to begin with? Because there are those who idolize entertainers like Jay-Z and put their word above God's word - young kids and even some adults who are easily misguided. If they even think for a moment that Jay-Z was implying that Jesus isn't God, then they are endanger of going to hell for eternity. That's VERY weighty.
Now, does this mean Jay-Z's music catalogue gets the thumbs up and Christians (or anyone) should go out and buy it for enjoyment? No. But it means that as Christians our voices must've been heard (Shoutout to Pastor Justin Cox, for one!). Does this mean Jay-Z will fix this on future copies of his album? We have no idea. Aye, Kanye changes stuff on his album sometimes, and he and Jay are cool - so who knows?
Lastly, keep Shawn Corey Carter (Jay-Z) in your prayers. Cause Jesus CAN save him... Let's pray that he submits to the Lord's call.
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