Don’t be a Bieber hater
Why we need to stop abusing celebrities
Look, I’m just going to put it out there. What I’m about to say won’t win me any friends or make me Mr Popular on the internet. But you need to hear this.
Justin Bieber bashing is not cool.
I mean seriously, what did Bieber ever do to you? Did he kick your dog? Where did all this hate for a pop singer come from? 9 times out of 10, if you bring up Bieber’s name in a conversation, someone will express their undying hatred for the underage Canadian with the distinctive hair. They’ll have never met the kid, yet they want to see him die an excruciating death.
Where is all this hate coming from? And why is it coming from Christian young people? The hate some people have for pop culture icons like Bieber is irrational and absurd. Someone releasing a song you don’t care for is no reason to wish white-hot knives to repeatedly stab them in the chest. Someone appealing to a demographic that you’re not part of is no reason for harboring hate.
Christians must love everyone
Most importantly, how is hating a 16-year-old pop star an act that is worthy of a Christian? Jesus calls all of his people to love everyone. Especially your enemies. “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:43-48) If Jesus wants you to love someone who has hurt you, who has actively done wrong by you, how is it any different for a singer you haven’t even met?
Hating Justin Bieber is just not on
If you’re a Christian, then verbally expressing your hate for anyone, if you know them or not, is unacceptable. No one is asking you to buy his CDs, see his upcoming movie, or attend his concerts. You don’t have to enjoy his music. But there is a difference between not liking the song ‘Baby’ and repeatedly wanting to punch Bieber in the face.
Cut out the Bieber bashing. Same goes for Lady Gaga, Ke$ha, or anyone who has ever appeared on Australian Idol. It’s just not on. So put your money where your mouth is. You say you’re a Christian? Then lay off Justin Bieber. Stop hating celebrities just because they exist. Instead, love them. That’s what Jesus would do.
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