Lecrae gets to heart of song on church hypocrisy

When Lecrae released the track "Church Clothes" last month, he hoped it would get the church talking about hypocrisy in the pews. In some corners though, it caused quite a stir.

The hip hop artist stands by his lyrics and insists that the song was not meant to accuse or attack anyone or any denomination.

Instead, its about voicing the perspective of an unbeliever's encounter with the church.

"In the song 'Church Clothes' I was actually speaking from the perspective of a person who sees all the hypocrisy in church," he explains.

"Many people have seen the hypocrisy and inconsistencies that have helped push them away from the church and God all together."

The song captures something of the hurt and anger non-Christians might feel if they are made to feel like they aren't welcome in church because they aren't wearing the right clothes or putting on airs.

"The goal wasn't to condone this behavior or view; it was just to show the real attitude that people outside the church have," says Lecrae. "It is a personification, which is a literary and artistic tool constantly used in rap music."

Dr Kenneth T Whalum Jr, author of "Hip Hop Is Not Our Enemy", has defended Lecrae's song.

"Lecrae's scripture-infused lyrics are just what the real church needs in politically-correct times like these," he said.

"Not only are his lyrics painfully direct, the visual images are stunning, just like the homeless people we drive by on our way to our urban cathedrals.

"I can already hear the shrill outcry of the self-appointed guardians of the religious status quo against what they characterize as the 'evils of hip-hop', but 'Church Clothes' is a prime example that Hip-Hop is not our enemy, hypocrisy is!"

Minister Keisha Allen, from Straight Gate International Church said "Church Clothes" was a "clarion call" to true believers to live a life of light so that others could be transformed and renewed.

"It is a challenge to address issues in the church that are more important than clothing of a non-believer such as, promiscuity, deception and the like. It's a great song!" she said.