Skillet lead singer John Cooper has strongly condemned the alleged actions of former Newsboys frontman Michael Tait, describing the situation as “a shame and a tragedy for the church.” Speaking on his “Cooper Stuff” podcast, Cooper urged his peers in the Christian music industry to issue “full-throated condemnations” of the behavior.
Cooper stated he felt a “burden from the Lord” to speak out, expressing dissatisfaction with initial reactions from within the industry. He criticized what he saw as a rush to emphasize grace and forgiveness, arguing that such sentiments, while true, are misplaced as a first response.
“We need a full-throated condemnation of these acts, not a condemnation of people,” Cooper declared. “We’re condemning the actions of people. Full-throatedly, unapologetically, we do not shrink back.”
The allegations against Tait include accusations of years-long predatory behavior, sexual assault of young men, including minors, and witnessing a rape. While Tait has posted a general apology, it does not address the full scope of the claims.
Cooper argued that the Christian “testimony to the world is at stake” and that the primary focus must be on the victims. He warned against downplaying the severity of the claims, stating that prioritizing themes of universal sinfulness over justice for victims could have dire consequences.
“What kind of Gospel are we displaying to the world when…our biggest, most passionate, most famous Christian music icons…say, ‘I’ve been living a double life since the beginning?'” Cooper asked. “It makes it feel like our Gospel is not real.”
He also addressed claims that Tait’s alleged behavior was an “open secret” in the Contemporary Christian Music (CCM) world, a sentiment voiced by worship leader Cory Asbury. Cooper disputed this, stating, “I did not know this. I find it very difficult to believe that everybody in CCM knew that there were alleged sexual assault victims.”
Cooper’s comments join a growing industry discussion. Singer-songwriter Rhett Walker has said Tait should face jail time if the allegations are proven true, while also cautioning against condemning the entire CCM industry.
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