Like you, I’ve heard countless stories of people walking away from their faith. So Katie and I checked this out. This one was different. After I listened, I was gut-punched too by the Rhett and Link controversy.
Social media makes faith deconstruction very personal.
When you listen to a regular podcast, you get to know people on an intimate level. This mode of communication has transformed our culture. In the past, we may have seen people like Rhett and Link for half an hour a week on TV. Now they’re with us everywhere: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Netflix, and hundreds of on-demand podcast episodes. On Twitter we see our post next to theirs. And when they joke and banter, we feel a bond.
In past generations, when media personalities deconstructed, although grievous, this may have lacked personal resonance. But now, when your children’s favorite influencer shares a major decision, it significantly impacts how they think and act. But you may never know what’s happening in their hearts and minds. You’re together, but they may be developing an entirely different worldview.
Let’s think about the impact of this Rhett and Link controversy. The YouTubers have more than 16 million subscribers on their primary YouTube channel alone. Their influence is far reaching. And a big part of their brand has been “we-grew-up-as-Christians-kids-just-like-you.”
Katie and I wonder how many Christian young people will grapple with “How did these guys—who are just like me, who I’ve come to love—just abandon their faith? Maybe I should too?”
Curious about response to the Rhett and Link controversy, I read comments on the Ear Biscuits podcast. More than 90 percent affirm the YouTubers’ decision to leave the evangelical Christian faith. Many people say they’ve shared similar struggles and are relieved to know they’re not alone.
Other teens are asking, “Are Rhett and Link Christians still?” They want to know the religion of YouTubers Rhett and Link, whether the “Bentley Brothers” are missionaries, whether they’re Mormon, and whether their songs are Christian. In short, kids are confused.
What can youth leaders learn from the Rhett and Link controversy?
I have far more questions than answers. But as I’ve processed the Rhett and Link controversy, these thoughts have emerged.
1. Lead with love.
YouTubers Rhett and Link are so talented, friendly and funny! If I could share coffee with them, I’d share how much laughter they bring into our home and how talented we think they are. They’re oh so loved, and we’re thankful for them. Do the kids in our youth ministry feel gratitude and love from our church community? Do they feel a sense of belonging where they can trust you with their pain and doubts?
