Hip-Hop Artist Flame on Theological Shifts

May 15, 2024

Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist FLAME joins The Russell Moore Show to discuss his journey through different theological beliefs, highlighting the importance of community and grace. They explore topics such as the power of forgiveness, spiritual growth, and the role of confession in Christian life. From baptism to rap albums, this episode offers insights for believers seeking to understand their identity in Christ.

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Introduction

00:00 • 3min

Personal Theological Journey and Transition

03:20 • 9min

Exploring Different Tendencies within Christianity

11:52 • 4min

Contrasts in Theological Assurance

15:34 • 11min

Navigating Spiritual Struggles and Seeking Help within the Christian Community

27:04 • 4min

Exploring Lutheranism and the Concept of Justification by Faith Alone

30:36 • 15min

Exploring Christian and Lutheran Rap, Book Projects, and Tour Updates

45:24 • 2min

“You have a bunch of callings, and they’re just natural, ordinary things that God uses to accomplish spiritual and natural things. Have fun. Flourish in those. And do good in the world.”

So says Grammy-nominated and Dove-winning hip-hop artist Flame on this episode of The Russell Moore Show, which features a conversation about music, theology, and journeying with Jesus. Moore explains that while this isn’t a “tell me where I’m wrong” episode, he hopes it will provide a helpful angle to the “deconstruction” discussion—one that considers whether changing our minds about theological beliefs can be an act of faithfulness.

They consider spirituality and stability, connection and community, and tendencies among theological tribes. Flame explains what happens when we reduce Christianity to a “moral improvement program,” highlights the power of forgiveness, and considers the role of confession and absolution in the life of the believer.

From thoughts on baptism and Communion to rap albums and biographies, this episode has something for all who want to understand who they are in Christ and what it looks like to worship him.

Resources mentioned in this episode include:

Flame / Extra Nos Academy
Freedom Lessons
Forward
Our World Redeemed
Extra Nos: Discovering Grace Outside Myself by Flame
“Scattered Tulips”
Commentary on Romans (Luther Classic Commentaries) by Martin Luther
Concordia Seminary

Song lyrics used with permission of the artist.

Do you have a question for Russell Moore? Send it to questions@russellmoore.com.

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“The Russell Moore Show” is a production of Christianity Today

Executive Producers: Erik Petrik, Russell Moore, and Mike Cosper

Host: Russell Moore

Producer: Ashley Hales

Associate Producers: Abby Perry and McKenzie Hill

Director of Operations for CT Media: Matt Stevens

Audio engineering by Dan Phelps

Video producer: Abby Egan

Theme Song: “Dusty Delta Day” by Lennon Hutton

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