Jelani Greenidge
A Pacific Northwest native, Jelani Greenidge is a dynamic communicator with a drive to inform, inflame, and inspire. When he’s not doing freelance work, he’s also learning on the job as associate pastor of Sunset Covenant Church in Portland, Ore.
Whether in print, in song, or in person, Jelani engages people with a stylized blend of urban intellect, incisive commentary, and practical theology. He tackles a variety of subjects, but his sweet spot is right at the three-way intersection of nerd culture, hip-hop culture, and evangelical culture. He is a speaker, writer, arranger, producer, hip-hop emcee/lyricist, stand-up comic, and the founder of Motif Worship, a resource for keyboard-driven worship leaders.
Plus he dabbles in comedy now.
Jelani resides with his lovely bride Holly in north Portland alongside several resilient plants, an XBOX One, and no pets.
35 Years of Christians in Hip-Hop
A notable, special, and interesting collection of 30 rap songs by Christian artists, including a bunch of “honorable mention” titles.
Gospel Throwback: Commissioned, “Victory”
Part one of the Gospel Throwback, a three-part series examining the emergence of contemporary gospel music.
We Need Servants of Peace, Not Soldiers of Fear
A broadened sense of fear can promote the tribal instinct to band together against a dangerous ‘Other.’
LeBron James, Welfare King
With the I Promise School, LeBron James embodies the principle of engaging the welfare of a people.
Is it time for the Church to respond to hip-hop’s dominance?
The Nielsen company is most widely known as the company that measures television ratings, but it also wields its considerable research apparatus in the realm of popular music. Recently, its annual mid-year report made headlines around the blogosphere after it revealed...
Is Kendrick Lamar’s Album the Solution to the Divide in Holy Hip Hop?
While the pop culture cognoscenti are impatiently waiting for another creative masterpiece in the form of Kendrick Lamar’s upcoming album, which is rumored to be released any day now, my hopes are a little more modest. In recent interviews, Kendrick has indicated that...
The Next “God’s Not Dead”: A Christian “Crash”
Principal creators of hit Christian film aim for urban audiences with ensemble film scheduled for release this month.
Testifyin’ or Signifyin’?: Analyzing Choir Use at the Grammys, Pt. 2
Black choirs abound at the Grammy Awards, but not every choir appearance carries the same meaning. Is your choir appearance takin’ it to church, or is it fakin’ the funk?
Testifyin’ or Signifyin’?: Analyzing Choir Use at the Grammys, Pt. 1
Black choirs abound at the Grammy Awards, but not every choir appearance carries the same meaning. Is your choir appearance takin’ it to church, or is it fakin’ the funk?
Avoid Being Overrated, Part 2: An Interview with Eugene Cho
The Seattle-based pastor and author talks about specialization in church ministries, justice and reconciliation, and a few of his favorite things.
Avoid Being Overrated: An Interview with Eugene Cho
A new book from the Seattle pastor is a reflection on activism, narcissism, and humility in the social media generation. Here’s the first of a two-part conversation.
Christian Movies: So Close, & Yet So Far
Faith-based cinema has encouraging signs, but there’s a tension between evangelistic messaging and quality art, embodied by what we mean when we say “Christian movie.”
The Man Behind “Annie”
Feature film producer DeVon Franklin spoke to Urban Faith about his upcoming “Annie” remake, the power of a good story, and the secret to his success in Hollywood.
Let the Church Click “Amen”
So many people participate in forms of online community much more than they do in their church community. What are today’s churches missing?
Four Reasons the Flame & Co. v. Katy Perry Lawsuit is a Bad Idea
Although Flame, Lecrae, and Da Truth may have an airtight case against Katy Perry from an intellectual property perspective, there are reasons the case is a bad idea.
“Edge of Tomorrow’s” Lesson: Dying is the Way to Live
Not since “The Matrix” has a film like this underscored spiritual principles that are central to the Christian faith.
Mama, There Goes That Man: 3 Lessons from the Mark Jackson Firing
Mark Jackson’s tenure was shipwrecked in three areas, and anyone who wants to be successful–in sports and particularly ministry–should heed them.
Bizzle Response Shows Need for “Same Love”
The Houston-based rapper made waves with his Macklemore response track, but he could’ve done it with more love and respect.
Churchy Fallacies Are Drivin’ Me ‘Crae
Lecrae is being attacked for his recent secular appearances. But the problem runs much deeper than one rapper-who’s-a-Christian.
Grand Theft Coddle
Rockstar’s latest is yet another explosive fantasy of urban wish-fulfillment. Maybe gamers should be careful what they wish for.
‘Church Girl’ Preaches to the Faithful
The Molina/Houghton debut is light on realism, but tries to make up for it with production sheen and earnestness.
When Angst Goes Viral
Louie CK’s latest viral video is a retelling of Ecclesiastes – more proof that honesty never goes out of style.
Shai Linne’s “Fal$e” Positives
The Christian rapper caused a stir by naming names in his quest to combat heresy. Here’s why that could backfire.
When Rights Go Left
OPINION: For years, African-American ministers have been decrying the public shift in opinion over same sex marriage. But it’s partially our fault.
Gospel Throwback: Andrae Crouch, “Perfect Peace”
Part three of The Gospel Throwback, a three-part series examining the emergence of contemporary Gospel music.
When The House Folds
The newest political drama from Netflix highlights an ecumenical hazard: building on the wrong foundation.
Gospel Throwback: Hezekiah Walker, “Christ Did It All”
Part two of the Gospel Throwback, a three-part series examining the emergence of contemporary gospel music.
How the Church Failed Christopher Dorner
The ex-cop vigilante released a manifesto detailing a litany of misdeeds suffered. But he missed an obvious target – the church.
An Open Letter to Lena Dunham
A thirtysomething fan counsels the HBO showrunner on how to make the most of her privileged platform.
Beware the Mark Driscoll Hasty Retweet
The controversial Seattle pastor called his shot in a recent Twitter message about President Obama. Perhaps he needs to consider the unintended consequences.
My Two and a Half Cents: An Open Letter to Angus T. Jones
Now that a little time has past since the young ‘Two and a Half Men’ star’s condemnation of his CBS show, here’s some advice for living out your faith even when you’re in the cast of a ‘filthy’ sitcom.
Lord, Deliver Us from Smartphone Stupidity
As the Internet goes mobile, phones and tablets have become symbols of our personal identity. But this latest digital divide could be bad for our souls.
The Genius of ‘Gangnam Style’
What can Christian artists learn from the overnight viral hit? Look deeper than the goofy guest appearances and fan spoofs, and there’s plenty.
If ‘The Dark Knight Rises,’ So Can We
Is this Batman for liberals or conservatives? Controversy over the film’s political messages misses the point. For people from all walks of life, the challenge is the same – to rise above.
The Straight Truth About Multiracial Worship
When it comes to multicultural worship music in churches, things are not always what they seem. Rule No. 1: Whatever strong preferences or opinions you have, prepare to have them shaken.
Inverting Black Masculinity: Key and Peele, and Trayvon
In this second installment of a three-part series, Jelani Greenidge continues his comparative analysis of Comedy Central stars Key and Peele, the Trayvon Martin tragedy, and the modern Black male experience in America.
First Black ‘Bachelor’? Please, No
A social media campaign is afoot to cast Lamar Hurd as the first Black man on ABC’s reality series ‘The Bachelor.’ This columnist says, “Be careful what you wish for, Lamar.”
Key and Peele, and Trayvon
What do two sketch comedians from Comedy Central have to do with the Trayvon Martin shooting? Both connect directly to the modern Black male experience. And as Christians, we should seek to understand why.
Into the Wild ‘Blue’ Yonder
The film version of Donald Miller’s bestselling ‘Blue Like Jazz’ is a refreshingly honest look at how God can use unexpected sources to draw us back to him.
KONY 2012’s Fame Problem
In their effort to make Josephy Kony ‘famous,’ the KONY 2012 filmmakers taught us something about the savage nature of fame.
Finally, a Famous White Pastor Gets It
John Piper addresses the race problem by showing how the gospel transcends race. But will White people – and Christians of all races – get the message?
Jeremy Lin and the Perils of Racial Progress
Who would’ve imagined that a Harvard-educated, Asian American Christian could become the break-out star of this compressed NBA season? It’s a fantastic story, but for many of us J-Lin’s success is a bit unsettling.
Curb Your Lin-thusiasm
OPINION: The meteoric rise of Jeremy Lin has been the feel-good story of this compact NBA season. We love that he’s an Asian American and a Christian, but let’s give the guy some space to be a basketball player.
Taking a Deeper Look at ‘Red Tails’
Despite mixed reviews, George Lucas’ blockbuster story of the Tuskegee Airmen has stirred a tremendous response, especially in the Black community. But beyond the surface buzz, the film packs profound lessons for Christian audiences.
Googling for Meaning, Part 2
Rick Santorum’s ‘Google problem’ highlights a challenge for Christians in the public sector: how do we give clear meaning and definition to our faith journey without alienating unbelievers?
Googling for Meaning, Part 1
Rick Santorum’s ‘Google problem’ tells us a lot about today’s gay activism, the uncontrollability of the Internet, and the success of the Black civil rights movement.
Stop Singing About God’s ‘Favor’
Today’s gospel music is too often preoccupied with the idea of divine favor, without telling its listeners how or why God favors us.
Dark Knight of the Soul
‘Arkham City,’ the latest in a series of gritty Batman video games, reveals how vigilante justice can be thrilling for a moment, but how it’s ultimately bad for the spirit.
The Thankful Blues
God uses all things, even snarky talk-show hosts and college a cappella groups, to draw us closer to himself.
Diversity in Silicon Valley
CNN’s latest ‘Black in America’ special sparked an important debate that needs to be had about the lack of African American entrepreneurs in the technology world. But honest dialogue needs to trump defensiveness and accusations of racism.
Of Kings and Thrones
From MLK to Jay-Z and Kanye, our global icons — and our popular opinions about them — reveal the danger of turning our gaze to the wrong throne. But Jesus offers a better definition of success.
‘Moneyball’ Ministry
Taking a deep look into this engaging baseball chronicle can reveal important truths about life in church ministry.
Top 10 Nerds of Color
From ‘Ugly Betty’ to ‘The Boondocks,’ these quirky characters show us that it’s cool to be smart, intelligent, and … a little awkward.
The Wisdom of Steve Jobs
What pastors and other leaders can learn from the iconic Apple founder.
Parables for the NBA Lockout
The National Basketball Association’s latest labor dispute is a good reminder to our young people that the league is a business first. And, as the Bible reminds us, good business sense never goes out of style.
Wanted: Nerds for Christ
A recent CNN column called for a nerd renaissance in the black community. Can it spread to the church?
Obama’s Meekness Is Not Weakness
As a Christian, the President’s response to House Speaker Boehner should not surprise his vocal critics on the left.
Now THAT’S Racism!
Much of the stuff that we rant about as being racist nowadays pales in comparison to this blatant act of hatred in Jackson, Mississippi.
A ‘Portal’ to Truth
Why the sequel to the popular video game pulsates with biblical insight into the human experience.
Gospel Identity Crisis, Part 4
Why we must get away from using terms like “secular” and “Christian” to label the music recorded by and marketed to Christian people. Some final thoughts on Tonéx and the end of “Christian” music as we know it.
Is LeBron the NBA’s Samson?
The downfall of LeBron James and the Miami Heat plays as a cautionary tale against hubris. But, like Samson of the Old Testament, it’s not too late for “King James” to turn it around and find redemption through humility.
Gospel Identity Crisis, Part 3
Examining the assumptions that define Tonéx, Christian recording artists, and their art.
‘Jumping’ to Conclusions
Faith-enhanced wedding rom-coms like Jumping the Broom reveal a lot of what’s right — and wrong — with modern Black America.
Gospel Identity Crisis, Part 2
In Part 1, we examined the meteoric rise and fall of gospel-singer-turned-pop-diva Tonéx. But is the Tonéx saga an aberration, or a sign of the troubling contradictions inherent in the Christian music industry? In the first installment of this four-part series, we...
Gospel Identity Crisis
When the urban gospel artist formerly known as Tonéx came out as a homosexual, his saga erased the already blurry line between sacred and secular pop music. Here's part one of a special series on the curious evolution of modern Christian music. Fans of the artist born...
True Diversity Is Harder Than It Looks
A funny new show about Portland, Oregon, highlights a common hypocrisy involved in loving diversity: it’s great as long as it doesn’t cost us too much.
A Tale of Two Jordans
Actor Michael B. Jordan’s compelling roles on two underappreciated TV dramas illustrate the need for biblical manhood and fatherly guidance in our society.
A Mom’s Desperate (School) Choice
The jailing of an Ohio woman for lying about her residency to get her kids into a better school says tons about the sad shape of public education in America. But in our eagerness to sympathize, it’s easy to overlook the fact that what she did is wrong.
The Whole Truth, So Help Us God
First it was Shirley Sherrod, now Juan Williams; both victims of our sound-bite media culture. As Christians, we must look for the whole truth in every situation, because half-truths are worse than outright lies. Not having come up professionally in the world of...
Stop Saying ‘Racism’
Honest dialogue about race and racial issues should move the conversation forward and advance its participants further down the road of understanding. Unfortunately, we've been doing the opposite. That's why our columnist is proposing this radical idea: a moratorium...
In Your Dreams
Inception raises big questions about the power of the subconscious mind, the true meaning of reality, and man’s ability to control them.
The Last Racebender?
Does it matter when a white actor plays an Asian role? M. Night Shyamalan’s The Last Airbender is a case study of the polarizing battle between colorblindness and race consciousness in Hollywood.
It’s About Time
Whether it's the passing of a loved one or the end of a favorite TV show (goodbye Lost and 24), our losses, big and small, have much to teach us if we'll just pay attention. In times like these, times of economic uncertainty and turmoil, the natural response is to...
A (Bleeping) Gospel Choir?
The Daily Show's Jon Stewart is known for political satire that skewers both the right and left, but his recent skit featuring a vulgarity-spewing gospel choir raises lots of troubling questions. The first one: why isn't the church more outraged? I listened and...
‘Lost’ and Found Theology
The popular TV series rises above the rest by compelling us to examine our understanding of God. And with millions of devoted fans, it could be one of our culture's most influential explorations of spirituality and faith. Among all the controversy surrounding the...
Misguided Compassion?
Ten American missionaries are jailed in Haiti for attempting to rescue needy children whose lives were uprooted by the earthquake. The missionaries' plight underscores the potential costs of discipleship, but also the consequences of good intentions gone awry. A group...
Gilbert Arenas’s Unfunny Business
Among other things, the NBA star's troubles offer this sobering reminder: An occasional joke is okay, but don't quit your day job. Washington Wizards basketball star Gilbert Arenas was recently suspended by the NBA because of a practical joke involving several...
Attention Obama Supporters
Before you get too worked up over Rep. Joe Wilson calling the president a liar, put yourselves in the other party’s shoes.
Fresh Prince Blues
In Seven Pounds, Will Smith’s pursuit of redemption is emotionally powerful but morally dubious.
Kanye’s Heartbreak
On his latest album, the hip-hop superstar’s implicit warning could be this: Be careful what you wish for.