Brandon Lake Answers Rolling Stones Question About ‘Christian Buddhist’

Guest Commentary

Audio By Carbonatix

By Amber Ginter, Crosswalk.com

Brandon Lake, an American singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his blend of soul, gospel, and raw Christian music, rose to fame as a premier contemporary Christian artist after his songs “Gratitude” and “Graves Into Gardens” gained national attention. Known for his previous work with Bethel Music, Maverick City Music, and many original tunes, it’s no surprise that his work has gone on to win multiple Grammy and Dove Awards. Collaborating with pop/rock artists like Jelly Roll, he has reached both secular and faith-based audiences alike.

In a recent interview with the Rolling Stones, Lake was asked whether there is room in Christianity for someone who identifies as a “Christian Buddhist.” During the April 1 episode of “Nashville Now”, Joseph Hudak asked the question because of his own identity with Christian Buddhism in some way.

“I’m not asking for your judgment of me, but I’m just asking, in terms of Christianity and the church, is there room for that?” he asked Lake.

With grace and truth, Lake noted, “I would so hope that you felt like the doors were open. I think Jesus would love to sit down with you, would love to have this conversation with you, and you can. I would also hope the Church would be that open. Why would you not have a place here? Even if we disagree on something, why would you not have a place here?”

As the worship pastor of Seacoast Church based in Charleston, South Carolina, Lake added, “I can believe what I can believe, and still be able to sit down and share a meal ... we might not align on these things, but like, doesn't God call me to love you and to listen? … I think there's something we can all learn from one another.”

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Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.