Kirk Franklin, the acclaimed American Gospel artist, has recently expressed concerns about certain beliefs prevalent in Western Christianity, particularly the way marriage, giving, and sexuality are often “weaponized.”
During an appearance on Cam Newton’s Funky Friday show, Franklin, now 54, criticized the portrayal of marriage within the church as a remedy for sin. He argued that this notion has been misapplied, leading to judgment and undue pressure on single individuals.
“Marriage has been weaponised in Western Christianity,” Franklin stated. “There’s this idea that getting married is the solution to sin, but marriage itself doesn’t fix sin.” He shared his personal experiences with his wife, Tammy Collins, highlighting how rigid religious expectations have affected their lives.
Franklin pointed out the significant pressure that single women, particularly Black women, face in their communities, where the absence of a spouse or children is often misinterpreted as a deficiency.
“It’s almost as if not being married or childless is seen as a sign that something is wrong with you,” he noted, calling these attitudes harmful.
The musician also addressed how some of his friends were pushed into marriage under the belief that it was necessary to serve in ministry, criticising the idea that singleness is a barrier to being used by God.
“People are rushing into marriage thinking they’re obeying God, but in reality, they’re following man-made doctrines. Being married isn’t a requirement for God’s work in your life,” Franklin explained.
He emphasized the importance of understanding faith and purpose beyond marital status, reflecting on the challenges he and his wife have navigated together since their marriage in 1996. Franklin’s message calls for a broader perspective on identity and value within the faith community.
Watch below video:
"I believe marriage has been weaponised in Western Christianity" – Kirk Franklin
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