Justin Bieber Leads a “Church Service” at Staples Center

bibing

Justin Bieber continues to transform his image from a troubled pop star to a kind celebrity and thoughtful artist. His recent concert at Staples Center was less of a concert and more like “a church service” according to an LA Times article titled “How Justin Bieber turned Staples Center into a megachurch.”

“An Evening with Justin Bieber” turned out to be a night of pop music, a film premiere and some skateboarding tricks.

LA Times wrote, “Timed to coincide with the release of the 21-year-old singer’s new album, “Purpose,” Friday’s show began with Bieber riding his board to a small stage positioned at the center of the arena’s floor. Later, he did an acoustic performance of several new songs (along with some oldies), then presented the first public screening of a film in which each track from “Purpose” was set to a different dance piece.”

But there was a moment in between all these element where “Bieber sat on a stool next to Judah Smith, the man described as his pastor, and more or less preached,” LA Times shared.

Incredibly, “He talked about the importance of maintaining a positive spirit and surrounding himself with encouraging people. (“Amazing,” Smith said.) He credited his connection with God for helping him to get back on his feet after a string of widely publicized tabloid troubles. And when a fan in the audience — one of a dozen or so selected by the singer’s team for a question-and-answer session — asked if he had any advice on how to get through a romantic breakup, he demurred, flashing a bit of the humility that every religious leader knows is crucial in establishing a bond with one’s flock.”

This may come as a surprise to some, but his new faith seems to be genuine. His new album, “Purpose” is vulnerable and thoughtful.

“As transparent an image-rehab attempt as any in pop history, “Purpose” finds the singer apologizing for his supposed misdeeds — one song is literally called “Sorry” — and vowing earnestly to change his ways,” wrote LA TIMES.

Source: ChurchLeaders