Ethan Luck

I Thought You Guys Were Christians!

88 Comments »

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  hit that head on

  favorite part

  “the cheery, bright and pleasent blades”

  Comment by Jace — July 23, 2010 @ 2:25 pm

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  Good stuff, bud. With you 150%. See you and Kalle next week! Yesssss.

  Comment by Doody Mac — July 23, 2010 @ 2:27 pm

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  It’s amazing how quickly people feel they can judge someone’s integrity and morality with a minuscule glimpse into their lives.

  I must not be a Christian ’cause I went to a restaurant that served alcohol and there were swears on the bathroom door. I think the waitress was Jewish. Applebee’s you ruined me!!!

  “So when they continued asking Him, He raised Himself up and said to them, He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first” (John 8:7)

  Comment by Sarah W — July 23, 2010 @ 4:56 pm

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  This is the kind of conversation I’ve had with way too many people. It’s ridiculous how many times I’ve had to defend listening to you guys after you “stopped being Christian.” Keep it up man, and don’t let ignorance get you down. Hope you guys have a fanstatic show in NYC.

  Comment by David Miller — July 23, 2010 @ 5:09 pm

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  Thanks David!

  Comment by Ethan — July 23, 2010 @ 5:15 pm

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  I back this so much. I’m not a Christian, although I enjoy your music a lot. Above all else, respect is key. People are never going to agree on everything (that’s part of what makes the world so great), but it makes no sense to be derogatory or mocking about someone else’s life choices. Some of those comments left are disgusting.

  Comment by Nicola Love — July 23, 2010 @ 5:33 pm

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  This is exactly why I do still respect you guys and support you– because you’re not afraid to hang out with the people who are different, who believe differently than you do.

  How can we bring light to a dark room if we’re not even willing to step inside to flip the lightswitch?

  I have friends with countless different beliefs. I have had some of the most valuable and thought-provoking conversations of my life with people who believe totally differently than I do. We miss out on so much when we hang out behind our walls.

  Keep doing what you do. I support you guys 100%.

  Comment by Mary — July 23, 2010 @ 5:38 pm

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  I back this 100% and I can’t believe that last comment is real. It’s sad there’s so much ignorance like that. That “Cheery, Bright & Pleasant Blades” bit made me laugh, haha. Wish I could go see that show. rK, The Gay Blades, and The Narrative — everyone who attends is definitely in for a good show.

  Comment by Nick — July 23, 2010 @ 5:38 pm

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  I wish there were more Christians like this, and less of the ones that accuse me of being a Devil worshiper because of my religion.
  When people discriminate based on the factors Ethan listed it is detrimental to their very cause. Too many have been killed in the name of religion and it has to stop if we truly value the life we have been graced with. I am reminded of the old saying “Live and Let Live”

  Comment by Thomas T — July 23, 2010 @ 6:12 pm

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  that was such a good blog! i enjoyed reading that, and i dont even like reading!! thanks for posting that!!

  Comment by nicole b — July 23, 2010 @ 6:17 pm

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  Sounds like those kids are part of the “God Hates Fags” church. It is truly sad that some people so regularly hate on others when they fail to remember WE ALL fall short of what God asks of us. Keep doing your thing Ethan, don’t let the man get you down. Screwtape has all kinds of tricks, even using God’s followers against each other.

  Comment by Cale Glendening — July 23, 2010 @ 6:21 pm

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  WOW..It’s sad how quick some people are to judge. I’m excited to be going to the nyc show..just 6 days left When I noticed who was opening for you guys, I was suprised, but just at their band name..it’s an interesting one. but I checked out some of their songs and they were life alteringly brilliant. I think the people who wrote those comments just need to put themselves in your places and maybe then they’d understand…and all other bands labeled as Christian who associate with non-christian bands have the same things said about them..it annoys me. Just ignore all the negativity and put on a great show next thursday!

  Comment by Christina — July 23, 2010 @ 6:22 pm

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  I think that everything that you said was great except, we need to have grace and love for even the Christians that don’t understand grace or love. Some people, like you said, are SO sheltered from the world but also from the truth of what they believe in. You, being someone with such great influence have the opportunity to expose some of the less fortunate people who left the comments above. The confused people are just as important as they completely lost.

  Negativity plus negativity do not equate to anything positive in this situation. Have purpose in everything that you do. You seem to attract these confused people so teach them about grace and love.

  Comment by Josh — July 23, 2010 @ 7:00 pm

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  This makes me see that even if Harry Potter was really about witchcraft worship and a bit demonic you would still think I’m an okay guy. And this is why we’re friends. Seriously though, I love you for this.

  Comment by Ryne — July 23, 2010 @ 7:12 pm

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  Thank you so much for posting this. As a fellow Christian, I am sickened by people who mistreat others in the name of religion yet blissfully ignore they do the same when condemning other religions for their violence. To me, saying something like the last comment is the same as slapping that person in the face. I absolutely love Relient K and some of your songs helped me through some crazy times. Irony of ironies, I was introduced to your music from a non-christian friend.
  If I expect respect from others for my beliefs, then I better show them the same respect!

  Comment by Pamela — July 23, 2010 @ 7:16 pm

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  How do come the conclussion that this is how God wants us to treat others. It’s like the bible doesn’t matter, but religion does. Totally not how Jesus rolls!

  Comment by Bump Galletta — July 23, 2010 @ 7:35 pm

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  Amen, brotha.

  Comment by Kara — July 23, 2010 @ 7:36 pm

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  I love the gay blades. I’ve never heard of you. But I want props to be delivered to you because I love the gay blades. (And also as a fag-o-sexual)

  Comment by RichardChainsaw — July 23, 2010 @ 7:54 pm

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  DUDE! i totally agree with everything you said.
  I posted about the same judgemental crap on my blog.
  Thanks for this post!
  

  Comment by Sean Degan — July 23, 2010 @ 8:24 pm

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  Amen

  Comment by Bobbydanger — July 23, 2010 @ 8:32 pm

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  If Christian’s never spoke to or spent time with non-Christians, Jesus would have been the only Christian to walk to the face of the earth. All Christian’s were non-believers at one point in time until another Christian entered our life and showed God’s love to us in some way or another. I love this blog post. It’s great stuff, and I hope a lot of people will read this and take it to heart!

  Comment by Andrea — July 23, 2010 @ 9:59 pm

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  That last commented you put in your entry broke my heart. As Christians, we are not called to condemn, but to love. Argh! How are we suppose to be more Christ-like, if we do the complete opposite that Jesus did here are on Earth?
  Sadly, this is why a lot of people are leery of anyone who say he or she is a Christian…

  Comment by Cindy — July 23, 2010 @ 10:05 pm

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  Thank you. I agree with everything you said. I think it epitomizes what I th ink being Christian really means.

  Comment by Karalee — July 23, 2010 @ 10:07 pm

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  Thanks everyone for all your comments! I’m not much of a writer, I just wanted to say what I was thinking. These kind of blog posts are a rarity for me. Glad people got something out of it.

  Comment by Ethan — July 23, 2010 @ 10:20 pm

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  great post ethan and i totally agree with you! it’s just sad that most of the people that NEED to read this, won’t. keep rocking brother!

  Comment by Chris — July 23, 2010 @ 10:32 pm

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  Thank you Ethan for being a voice for so many of us Christians who aren’t afraid to live our lives outside of the religious bubble. I have so much respect for you and Relient K. I love one of your all’s songs that says, “I don’t wanna say I’m right/I just want you to know.” That’s really my motto about my Christianity. I have meaningful and loving relationships with people so that I can earn the right to be listened to and considered. My hope is that more Christians will lead by example like you and the other guys from RK.

  Comment by Kristin — July 23, 2010 @ 10:51 pm

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  Thanks for the post, Ethan. As far as I see it, it’s not my job to judge, that’s God’s. My job is to love, or at least respect, the people I come into contact with in this world.

  Comment by Hannah — July 23, 2010 @ 10:58 pm

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  I think it is just a really difficult thing for people to find that fine line between acceptance of things they deem morally wrong (and/or things that scripture deems to be morally wrong), and condemnation of individuals. I have seen some say things out of genuine concern, others have different motives (superiority, perhaps?.) It’s not even always easy to tell them apart.

  I know Matty has gotten letters, notes and posts like this and it seems they would get to him. Personally, I do think we are to sometimes offer a correction or to go to a brother if they offend you. The two caveats to the correction issue is that it appears this is a brother you have some sort of actual relationship with and know, not someone you listen to in a band, per se; and you are not involved in similar behavior yourself. The other requirement is that it be done out of genuine love and concern. I think 95% of the time criticisms would evaporate if subjected to those guidelines.

  Playing music is your work, and you are not primarily in the Christian themed music tour circuit. Relient K hasn’t been for many years. I work with people who are not Christians, so do you. What’s the difference? If someone is uncomfortable sending their teens to a concert because of the content or moral practices of someone in another band, and their motivation is to look out for their kids, I can’t find fault, but why do you even need to know? I don’t get that part.
  Anyway, I would have far more problems with a Christian living openly and unashamedly in sin than with someone playing or associating with non-Christians. In fact, I get rather excited to hear about it. Who better to minister to a musician than another musician?

  Just so you are aware, though, I’ve seen plenty of cruelty directed at Christians and non-Christians by non-Christians. I think it just hits harder sometimes because the expectation is different. And artists often are at the brunt of a lot of it. I guess people think they don’t have feelings or something? Sigh…

  Anyway, my two cents. I hope that makes sense.

  Comment by Melanie — July 23, 2010 @ 11:18 pm

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  It is so refreshing to know that there are other “christians” out there who are not going to condemn and bash every sinner they come in contact with. I found this post very encouraging because I have started to move away from christianity for the very reason that i have a hard time associating myself with people who are going to be narrow-minded about this issue.

  Comment by brandon — July 23, 2010 @ 11:20 pm

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  Well said. Thank you for your words! Sadly, it needs to be said.

  Comment by Andrea — July 23, 2010 @ 11:21 pm

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  Amen dude. Right on. Thanks.

  Comment by Tim — July 23, 2010 @ 11:37 pm

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  Sooo I was just innocently looking for the new Plea For Purging Music video and saw this post… Do to the total over saturation of music in the world I would have most likely never heard of the Gay Blades without these ignorant “Christians” running there fingers… so I would just like to say thank you to them for helping me discover some awesome new music! and for contributing to my moral decay!!!! and my eventual damnation to hell for listening to this sinful music..haha

  Comment by Tim — July 24, 2010 @ 12:08 am

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  GREAT POST! I love you guys and the gay blades and as surprised as I am to see you play together, I think it is awesome!! What better way to witness! I wish I could be in NYC!

  Comment by Chad — July 24, 2010 @ 12:21 am

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  I live in Texas, and I hate to stereotype the “Bible Belt,” but this sort of knuckleheaded Christianity is pretty common. As already mentioned, this pharisaical behavior gives the church a horrible name. It makes me sad to hear that you all still run in to this sort of thing. I guess it would be easy to rant about it, but a rant only lowers you down to their level. Choose peace. God is love. Relient K (and the Supertones) were practically my heroes growing up, and I’m proud of that.

  By the way, I recommend Gustavo Gutierrez’ “Theology of Liberation.” It resonates with this blog.

  Comment by Cameron — July 24, 2010 @ 12:44 am

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  Well said Ethan. I have a lot of respect for you. Stay true.

  Comment by Paul — July 24, 2010 @ 1:02 am

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  Thank you so much for taking a stand and encouraging us to just love one another. It’s so sad the many, many things we justify in the name of Christianity. Jesus was all about love and so should we be.
  May all your God dreams come true.

  Comment by Mother Brown — July 24, 2010 @ 1:21 am

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  I understand your frustration Ethan. I get it. AND most importantly, I think, if I am reading this correctly, it lines up with scripture.(James4:11-12) We, as believers, can’t expect unbelievers to live sanctified lives. Simply put, they haven’t acknowledged their sin, repented of it, surrendered to Christ and therefore, been set free. You can’t expect them to live as Christ if they don’t place their faith in Christ.(1Cor.1:18) That goes for sin issues, band names, language, etc. BUT in regards to all our unbelieving friends; whether they are Atheists, homosexuals, liars, murderers, thieves, etc. I think it is important to note that sometimes the way we are to LOVE our friends involves discussing the hard things.(Proverbs 29:5) And by hard things I don’t mean philosophy, ethics, and other relative, safe, easy things. I am talking about sin. Black and white sin that scripture clearly address’s.(1Tim.1:8-11) Yes, even pointing out sin in our friends lives and revealing the truth that their sin separates them from a good and gracious savior, is love. Now, the people you quoted were quite off base. Their words lacked wisdom and compassion. (Matt.12:36, Eph.4:29, James 1:26) I think it is very important for all of us to remember that true, God honoring, love can, at times, cause pain, leave scars, and bring quite a bit of discomfort. (Proverbs 27:6) In regard to sin, we must understand that the momentary discomfort that comes from pressing others toward Christ and away from habitual sin is infinitely more valuable and loving than the momentary comfort and everlasting damnation that silence offers. Remember, SIN SEPARATES (Rom.6:23) us from God and without the blood of Christ (Eph.2:13) we are all destined for an eternity of separation from God. Understand, I don’t usually get involved in things like this but I felt led to just point out a few little things that we must remember in Scripture as we discuss such matters.

  Grace to you and peace from God through Christ,
  zach

  Comment by zach — July 24, 2010 @ 2:24 am

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  Hello friends, please hear me out, I am not trying to be rude, or cause any fuss, just adding a little more to the discussion…

  I understand what you are saying, some of those comments are harsh, christians shouldnt say stuff like that. But, now you have opened up your blog to quite a bit of smack talk against christians. I do believe the bible asks believers not to stir up dissension amongst other believers. And now you have given already skeptical people a place to bash Christianity and drag its name through the mud.

  Yes, Jesus did hang out with sinners. But He also changed their lives, by preaching, loving, and performing miracles. Jesus had a set of morales and when He was with the prostitute as someone pointed out, He said “your sins are forgiven, go and sin no more” see there had to be a change, He didnt just hang out out with them to have fun and to “love and respect them” He was their to change their lives.

  He did love them, but I am not sure Jesus respected sin, do you remember when Jesus drove all of those people out of the temple with a whip? Jesus is the embodiment of love. He gives grace to the humble, but resists the proud (James 4:6) Jesus is after repentance, and through grace He makes us righteous, and in return we give back holiness (being set apart)

  I know plenty of people who choose alternative lifestyles, and do drugs, and drink and cuss or have sex outside of marriage, or whatever their sin of choice is. I LOVE THEM! But I dont sit around with them while they partake in sin and tell them its alright.

  I hope this makes sense. Just trying to add another dimension to this thoughtful, mature discussion.

  One Love, Jesus Christ.

  Comment by Paul — July 24, 2010 @ 3:22 am

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  I agree. I’m just glad Jesus didn’t look at me because I wasn’t like Him and decide not to die for me. That would have really ruined the concert. I guess it’s easy to judge from up high in their towers. Harder to do when youre living out your walk with the people Jesus came to “SEEK AND TO SAVE”.

  ALSO? still love Relient K…

  Comment by Martin M — July 24, 2010 @ 5:33 am

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  This is the sort of thing that has made me always question if some people never really feel grace. It is by grace we are saved, through faith, not by works. The Bible says nothing about not hanging out with the unsaved. In fact, it’s entirely for it!

  Comment by Steve — July 24, 2010 @ 5:42 am

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  (edit)
  How do they come to the conclussion that this is how God wants us to treat others. It’s like the bible doesn’t matter to them, but religion does. Totally not how Jesus rolls!

  Comment by Bump Galletta — July 24, 2010 @ 7:28 am

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  Being Christian’s a lot harder when you follow Jesus’ example, am I right? Thanks for doing it in a public arena and thanks for the post.

  Comment by Jennifer Bale — July 24, 2010 @ 8:18 am

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  I remember being the type of person who would have left you one of those comments. I don’t miss being that guy. I’m glad you guys do what you do.

  Comment by Jeff — July 24, 2010 @ 8:25 am

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  Thank you for writing this. As a gay Christian myself, who also appreciates good music, I enjoy that you simply don’t care if the musicians are wrongevilbadgays. I do get nervous whenever references of Jesus hangin’ with sinners is used as an arguement to not be judgemental, because it can often be used as a creepy conversion tactic. Not always, but often. I have had “friends” do that to me, and what they don’t understand is that I have never left God, I am securely in God’s hand and I know He loves me. My beliefs and how they relate to my “lifestyle” (another interesting side note: people hear I am gay and automatically make assumptions towards what type of debauched lifestyle I must apparently lead) are between God and myself.

  All in all, I enjoyed your blog. :] kudos

  Comment by J — July 24, 2010 @ 9:21 am

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  I just wanted to say one big thank you. I’m not a huge fan of your music (though i still listen to your Christmas album every year)and honestly the only reason i stumbled upon this post is that a friend posted it on facebook and i was bored. But being gay, and an agnostic, with several Christian friends who have very strong beliefs, this post made me happy. My friends and I have always looked past the beliefs to the morals behind them, and just because I’m not saying that their god is the god doesn’t mean that they love me any less. People need to learn to treat everyone with respect, and I’m glad that at least some people, who people look up to, can do just that. <3

  Comment by Chelsea — July 24, 2010 @ 10:24 am

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  I sincerely want to thank everyone for their thoughts and comments! I was hoping this would not turn into a argument and it has not. I was hoping for people to just state their thoughts and opinions so everyone could read them and thats what happened. Thank you so much everyone! I never expected this many comments on one of my posts. Usually I get a comment or 2 when I post stuff about my photography or music. Maybe I should do this more often! Love you guys!
  Ethan

  Comment by Ethan — July 24, 2010 @ 10:59 am

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  who cares is right…who cares? not I

  Comment by sir jorge — July 24, 2010 @ 11:10 am

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  I’m so glad to see some of the few people who actually agree with me! I’ve been trying to argue this point with a friend forever, and she just can’t seem to understand it. At church stuff, people always seem to be “down with the gays!” no, i “support” homosexuality. yes, i “support” the person. well, yeah, it’s a sin. but so is disrespecting your parents and lieing. do we say “down with anyone who has a bad attitude!” ? no. we don’t. If we’re not there for sinners, who will be? other sinners? someone has to be an example for them!
  Anyways, I could put some more of my own rant on here, but i think you pretty much covered my opinion, ethan – thanks so much for speaking your mind on this!
  <3

  Comment by Jane Rose — July 24, 2010 @ 12:24 pm

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  *[i meant "i DON'T support homosexuality" in the 4th sentence]- serious typo on my comment lol – felt like i needed to clear that up
  [=

  Comment by Jane Rose — July 24, 2010 @ 12:26 pm

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  Do what you gotta do. Just remember that everyone is appointed a time to die and be judged. Work for the Lord Jesus Christ and not unto men. Have a good show. I wish I could be there.

  Comment by davis — July 24, 2010 @ 12:41 pm

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  I think this is a great ‘food for thought’ conversation. I find it most interesting that regardless of your religion, sexual orientation, social status, beliefs, etc, that we are all sinful in nature; and passing judgement on anyone is an extension of that. That being said, as a follower in Christ you are called to be ’stewards’ of his love. I think this is commonly taken out of context to believe Christians  are responsible to force-feed His teachings. 

  The Bible speaks a lot of ‘light’ and most commonly (if not always) in the form of it being the opposite of darkness which would be the absence of it. If Christians are indeed called to be ’stewards’ and to be a ‘light’ (John 3:18) then how can we eliminate and/or rule out being examples of His love in darkness? More so, can we really justify another person or group for attempting to share that with the broken? What good are you bringing by willfully persecuting and/or condemning any entity by trying to judge its right and wrongs?

  I’ll preface that this is a bold statement that shouldn’t be taken as demeaning or judgmental of anyone. But I think these guys are doing great things by NOT secluding themselves to the believers in Christ. 

  Jesus called the foolish, poor and weak as His witnesses. Not the elders, priests and people of abundant faith.   

  Bottomline, Relient K has a group of great guys playing music they love and wanting to share that with all who will listen. This includes fans of ‘The Gay Blades’. 

  Did I mention how handsome Ethan is? I mean, it goes without being said but I definitely had to mention his charm and friendly disposition towards meat. Ethan doesn’t mind the fact I love steak…  what a guy!

  Comment by Tyler — July 24, 2010 @ 2:08 pm

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  Sure it’s not all “flowers and roses” to quote Joshua, and there will be a judgment day, but you have to understand that in order to bring people to Christ, you have to build a relationship with those people first, and show them the same love that Christ showed all of us. I think as long as Ethan is being careful not to be swayed and is resolute in his beliefs and relationship with Christ, he’s doing fine. It takes time for someone to make the decision to come to Christ. I have a friend who prayed for years that his family would come to Christ, and it took that long just to get them into church! And on top of all that, who said that “the Gay Blades” were actually gay or even support gayness? it may be just a name…

  Comment by Chandler A — July 24, 2010 @ 3:17 pm

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  Is it so bad to expect Christian to have some common sense? We don’t even have to be smart, just stop being so incredibly stupid.

  Comment by Jay — July 24, 2010 @ 3:21 pm

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  By the way, I have confirmed that The Gay Blades are not actually gay, haha!

  Comment by Ethan — July 24, 2010 @ 3:27 pm

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  Dude, speak from you convictions of ministry and Love God with all your heart. What others say or think, is stupid.

  People have fits abut this yet they work with, are seen in public with all these type of people. They are the example in their community, but they are failing cause they do not ask. Booking companies set up shows and bands often have no control over who they play with

  Comment by auggie m — July 24, 2010 @ 4:11 pm

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  Thank you Ethan. I share your thoughts and I have a ton of friends who are gay and a ton who are atheists, and I am going to be a minister in the methodist church!!! I just preached on something like this. Jesus’ commandment to us is, “to love God, and to love your neighbor as yourself.” You do not have to agree with everyone, or what everyone does, but you still must love and respect them! Its quite simple.

  People just need to set aside THEIR OWN views and start accepting that other people have views and feelings too!

  So thank you again Ethan!

  Comment by evan — July 24, 2010 @ 4:47 pm

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  I literally just finished writing a “focus on faith” piece to read in church tomorrow about loving as Jesus loves. Those comments made me sick. I don’t understand how people can love God, but not love God’s creation. Thanks for this post. Its truth is eye opening and inspiring. Keep on keeping on, man.

  Comment by Christine Maley — July 24, 2010 @ 5:13 pm

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  Wow! That’s wonderful!! I agree most definitely. There’s a christian band with the word “devil” in the name. Why can’t there be one with “gay”?? Way to go Ethan!!

  Comment by mackenzie — July 24, 2010 @ 5:57 pm

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  I really liked this post Ethan. I think it’s a good thing for all Christians to remember what Jesus really would do. He loved everyone.
  But Christians also walk a fine line, I think. The Bible tells us that homosexuality is a sin, but it also tells us to love everyone as ourselves. We have to find that place between license and legalism. And its hard not to judge people, especially growing up in a Christian home with Christians all around you.
  But there is NO WAY I will EVER judge the integrity of Relient k or ANYONE in it just because of who you tour/hang with. Because I love you and I know you love Christ.

  Comment by Brianna — July 24, 2010 @ 6:33 pm

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  Haha Yes!!! Win for me

  Comment by Chandler A — July 24, 2010 @ 7:00 pm

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  And they spelled Reliant wrong! Ha ;]

  Comment by Daniel — July 24, 2010 @ 7:11 pm

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  very interesting reading all the comments lol. i def agree with you, Ethan.

  I was brought up Catholic and then Christian for whoever wonders. Back in high school I used to be a person that did not support gays at all, I made fun of them. It could have just been because I was so young but.. yeah. Then I found out one of my good friends was gay. Interesting times. Also for a while, before the “scene” exploded, I was against tats and peircings too. I was against both of these things for bassically the same reason. Because some Christian adult had told me that somewhere in the Bible it says these things are wrong.
  I’ve changed quite a bit over the years as far as my acceptance towards these things. Do I stick my neck out to support gays or getting a tatoo? Not really (other than acceptance of tatoos in the workplace but thats another topic lol), I believe these are personal things and should just remain that way. Until recently as far as religion goes I dont really know what to believe anymore. I just can’t wrap my head around things like what “paul” said up in the prev comments. The fact that some of my closest friends and relatives will die going to hell because they dont have faith in someone (Jesus) they have never seen. Yes yes, I know the verses: “Blessed are those who haven’t seen and yet believe”. Remember, I was once a “super-Christian”. Even moreso, I have friends that have never stepped foot inside of any church, Christian or other, and who have never had a spec, so to speak, of any religion sprinkled on their lives throughout the entire duration of their lives. These people aren’t Ethan’s well-informed athiest friends, these people transcend that whole aspect. Back to what “paul” said up top. These people would not even know where to begin or how to fathom a word like “holiness” and how it works with “repentance” and so on. As far as they know they have gotten through 20some years of their lives just fine never being taught any of this. Can you blame them for not even beginning to understand the aspect of religion? And so, they will go to hell? With many incidents like this world-wide, it has stirred the very depths of how I think of Christianity and all religion. Until I get answers from someone or somewhere that I can sift through (using much carefulness), I am going to continue to chill with people that I respect and who give it back regardless of their “sins” like cussing? eh. And try to be the most moral and stand-up person someone could meet, sharing as much care and love as I can. Just like Ethan. (But I’m sure neither of us will say, “Alright, way to go cursing!” to our friends or people we meet lol. Sorry, “paul”. But I’m sure you did’t really mean to say it like that.)

  Best of luck to everyone, and really hope to be at the concert Friday lol. I should prob check out The Gay Blades now. Both RelK and TheNar are mad good.

  Comment by T — July 24, 2010 @ 11:33 pm

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  You’re my freaking hero! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been in debated with pig headed people over the very same issue, and used the same argument of Jesus hanging out with prostitutes and tax collectors. I enjoyed this so much that I copied it to my personal blog, I credited you of course. Thanks again and keep up the good work.

  Comment by Albert — July 24, 2010 @ 11:37 pm

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  Thanks so much for that Ethan! I have been raised as a Christian all my life and have struggled with it all my life. But just recently I feel like I’ve started figuring things out, and it’s amazing how Jesus has blessed my life already. I know I’m doing the right thing by persevering.
  But until recently I thought I knew how Christians should act, but really I had no idea. It wasn’t very long ago that I was making fun of homosexuals as well. I’m just starting to realize how I should have been acting all this time.
  But I hope to make a Godlier impression in days to come.
  Thanks a lot

  Comment by Wayne — July 25, 2010 @ 3:50 pm

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  I agree with all my heart. I love that you have taken the comments that you have gotten and challenged them to think about what is happening. I find friendship and love in people for who they are, not what they believe. Its not my job to make someone to believe, but to belong, to earn their love and trust and show my heart along the way. I support you all the way. My heart and prayers go out to you.

  Comment by Anna — July 25, 2010 @ 5:51 pm

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  I completely agree. I see nothing wrong with relient K playing with that band. I am a Christian but that doesn’t mean I’m going to stay away from people who aren’t, that’s just retarded! I also see nothing wrong with a Christian band playing shows with bands that aren’t. I listen to hardcore/metal music as my preferred genre (including Demon Hunter lol),and all that I mainly listen to is Christian. A lot of the bands I listen to tour with bands that aren’t Christian. It’s not wrong, I see it as another opportunity to reach more people and share your faith. Maybe this show that Relient K is doing will help reach a different type of audience and maybe it will have a positive effect on the people there. This can be a good opportunity. Being a Christian isn’t supposed to be about being better than others and only surrounding yourself with just Christians. Am I saying that we should be in the world? No, most definately not! We can be with people who aren’t Christians and show them love and respect and yet not be like them. There is nothing wrong with having friends who aren’t Christians. What about the great commission? How could we be called to tell others about Christ if we were to surround ourselves with other Christians? People need to stop getting worked up over ridiculous stuff.

  Comment by Ari — July 26, 2010 @ 2:10 am

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  on that last question i meant to put How can we be called to tell others about Christ if we were to surround ourselves ONLY with other Christians? sorry…

  Comment by Ari — July 26, 2010 @ 2:13 am

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  Well said, It’s people like that, that make people turn away or not believe at all. You guys are always in my prayers. Let Us Love!

  =)

  Comment by Ashneth — July 26, 2010 @ 4:20 am

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  It’s all about spreading the Love of Jesus Christ! How can someone do that or influence someone when they don’t come in contact with anyone. I hate that Christianity has become so Religious when its not about Religion! It is not the healthy who need a doctor. thanks Ethan you guys Rock

  Comment by Brandon Cruise — July 26, 2010 @ 10:22 am

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  Ethan,

  I commend you for this post.

  I have a degree in theology from a Catholic university and I’ve spent most of my adult life in adolescent ministry.

  One of the greatest things I was ever taught in my theology classes was that theology and religious practice have no place anywhere in our world unless placed into context with the society which surrounds it. In short: religious theory is nothing if not put into action in any given society. This is the world we live in, it’s the only one, and we only get one shot. Jesus tells us we are to spend our time practicing love, understanding, forgiveness, and peace REGARDLESS of race, sexual orientation, age, etc. How can we say that we are followers of Christ when we ignore the single-most foundational pillar of our Christian faith: Love?

  Relient K is trying to do something that, as a Christian, I think we all should give a great deal of effort to: showing kindness and respect in every circumstance. You all are truly who I imagined and hoped you were: amazing role models and incredible people.

  And as far as “Relient K a Christian band or not” question just consider this, actions speak much louder than words.

  May God bless you all.

  Comment by Justin — July 26, 2010 @ 11:06 am

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  “Jesus loves the outcast, he loves the one the world just loves to hate… and as long as there’s a heaven, there’ll be a failure to excommunicate”

  Comment by PJ — July 26, 2010 @ 11:09 am

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  you killed it, sir.

  Comment by Billy Grubbs — July 26, 2010 @ 12:22 pm

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  Thanks! That was awsome. The last comment was so messed up, if you don’t spend time with people that aren’t Christians how are they ever supposed to understand or even see the love of God? They aren’t! Good job Ethan! Just stick with what you believe and keep up showing people the love of Christ.
  I have gay friends, does that mean I agree with them? no. It means I think my friends are cool awsome people and care about them and want to let them know that I love them and so does God. This attitude that people have is what makes people think that God hates them and wants nothing to do with them, but its not true.
  Keep on going Ethan!

  Comment by Kaitlin — July 26, 2010 @ 12:28 pm

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  dude! right on!! it makes me sick that “christians” could leave comments of hatred like that… i agree, it def makes it difficult for the rest of us to share our faith or have friendship with people of different backgrounds… i have so many friends who have been hurt by these religious people who hide by behind their Jesus banner…

  i’m so glad you spoke out on this ugliness…

  Comment by Josh Zapata — July 26, 2010 @ 12:41 pm

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  What a great way to share your faith and love for Christ..

  Comment by Heidi — July 26, 2010 @ 1:18 pm

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  I don’t think there’s anything wrong with being a friend to non-christians… But I do think it’s very important that you shine as a bright Light for Christ, and don’t hide it in fear of offending them. Jesus told sinners to turn away from the evil things they did and follow him. Some of these sinners rejected him. They mocked him, betrayed him, spit on him… and killed him. These are the risks you take when you hang out with people who disagree with your beliefs.

  Don’t cover your mouth when you ought to sing
  Sing to the world so that all may hear
  Don’t put out the fire when others are near
  Shine for the One all-powerful King

  Blessings
  ~Evergreena

  Comment by Evergreena — July 26, 2010 @ 4:26 pm

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  I think the problem most Christians would have with touring with such a band is that it can give the impression that you all approve of the homosexual lifestyle. The comments you received in response to the band name were inappropriate and clearly not posted by mature Christians. I do agree that we can be a witness by being around non-Christians.

  Comment by Maria-Tabitha — July 26, 2010 @ 5:37 pm

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  Ethan — first time poster here. I’ve been a fan of yours since you played with The Supertones, and have been a fan of Relient K since they released their first album.

  It’s hard to make the case that Relient K is not a Christian band when you take certain songs (i.e. For the Moments I Feel Faint, Down in Flames, My Way or the Highway…, and Trademark, to name a few) into account. You’re absolutely right about the types of people Jesus hung out with. If we only ever hung out with Christians, no one would ever be saved.

  Comment by Clinton — July 26, 2010 @ 10:05 pm

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  Everyone else has said this, but you were right. And you were definately the right person to say it. well done and keep it up.

  also. relient k HAS changed. but for the better. Im a fan of all the music. i even listen to ‘all work and no play’ sometimes. And though the newer stuff isnt so blatantly christian, its much deeper, less cheesy, and all around better. and also appeals to a much wider audience, such as the “The Cheery, Bright & Pleasant” members of our world.

  Comment by Phil Parkes — July 27, 2010 @ 5:01 am

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  I understand where you are coming from, but you use the story of Jesus hanging with the sinners. I get that.. but Jesus also called them on their sin and told,them to go and sin no more. So, when you find yourself in a situation with someone who is sinning, make sure to let them know that as well. And, by the way, tell yourself that too. We’re all sinners.

  Comment by Lefty 1962 — July 28, 2010 @ 11:24 pm

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  Amen Ethan. I recently told Bryce from The Rocket Summer how amazed I am that he is on Warped tour this year and how glad I am that he can be a minister to them. Same goes to you and the bands you tour with and the fans you meet. The world needs unsheltered band members to go do the dirty work, especially in America.
  God bless bro!

  Comment by Jeremy — July 29, 2010 @ 5:14 am

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  you got this right on. what does sexual orientation have to do with religion? i am not a christian. i have looked into many religions, and am happy with the one i’ve got. i am friends with christians, atheists, pagans, people of many different beliefs. we all get along.
  that being said, i am very familiar with the christian belief system. almost everyone i know is christian, and i know that true christians do not condemn others like that. the people who left those hateful comments should be ashamed.
  thank you for getting this out there.

  Comment by Shannon — July 29, 2010 @ 10:33 pm

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  Ethan – Couldn’t agree with you more…Christians seem to get so caught up in wanting to live in a Christian bubble that they forget that living in a ‘Christian’ bubble is exactly the opposite of what Jesus did (although in doing what he did he annoyed the religious leaders…perhaps this is a parallel between you guys and the comments you’re getting!)

  I think it’s awesome that you hang out and play with band who aren’t Christian…showing that you’re human and care about people probably has a massive impact on their perspective of Christians (which I hope isn’t influenced by some of the comments on Relient K’s facebook)

  God bless

  Mark

  Comment by Mark Tiddy — July 31, 2010 @ 5:33 pm

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  Christians can get their way through this hypersexualized lostgendered addled mess of pre and extra marital sex, homosex, bisex, and all other variations many of which are fed and fueled by our porn web surfing habits (which if polling is correct a lot of we Christians are into) by making a simple tour through a letter written to a bunch of Christians who got a parchment full of Paul on this. It would really help if a band like Relient K would get the manufacturer of sex’s take on this issue and communicate it clearly instead of being aghast that some believers get it wrong. Correct with truth and love and do it clearly. They are not mutually exclusive. See I Cor 5:9-13. You cannot judge or condemn those not following Christ. We are to judge the ones who do follow Him, not those who don’t. Whole denominations, churches, and even Christian membered bands can get this backwards letting any-sex go inside the fellowship and outside, or condemning it outside and letting it be snickered at inside. Read Paul’s take on it and line it up with Jesus’. They speak the same, Matt. 7 and 18, on any sex outside marriange and judging anyone outside the church.

  Comment by Craig — August 1, 2010 @ 3:46 pm

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  Very nicely put. People too often forget that We are supposed to be “IN the world and not of the world” key word being in, not in the world but separated from the rest of the world.

  Comment by Emily R. — August 8, 2010 @ 5:26 pm

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  This reminds me to a disturbing level of when I was talking to some friends about seeing you guys in St. Louis last fall. I was commenting on how much I liked Barcelona and one of my friends said “Yeah, they were ok, but I don’t think they were Christian.”

  Huh? His reason was even worse. “Well, did you see how they came out on stage with those beers? There’s no way!” (ironically my dad was in the back of the theater drinking the same thing)

  The sooner people who say they believe in what Jesus taught actually start living it, the better it’ll be for everyone involved.

  Comment by Nathan — August 10, 2010 @ 12:03 am

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  Amen! That is who Christ is…we all need to be more like that Christ, and less like the Christ we pretend to be today…even though no one cares to know that that Christ isn’t even real…like you said, Christianity has become so sheltered!

  Comment by Andrew — August 16, 2010 @ 4:54 pm

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  I could NOT agree more. Ethan, you’ve just said everything I’ve always been thinking and more. Couldn’t have said it better myself! You will always be a hero to me!

  Comment by Rachael — August 25, 2010 @ 9:41 pm

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