The Undisputed King: A look at Michael Jackson's impact in light of Christ

The new biopic film, Michael, releases Friday April 24th. This has led me to think about Jackson’s legacy as the undisputed, “King of Pop.”

I was born in the 70’s and grew up during Michael’s solo career. The first album my parents let me buy was, Thriller—which I still own. Like many during the 80’s, I loved Michael’s music, watched his videos and concerts and even saw his Captain EO attraction at Walt Disney World! Michael was a key influencer during the first 20 years of my life. His creative genius demonstrated that, “what was possible is actually beyond what we often think is possible.”

However, as Michael reached the pinnacle of success, he still seemed to be searching for something. His superstardom allowed him access to everything the world had to offer. But, he couldn’t even go out in public without being thronged by fans and paparazzi. His fame had become his prison cell.

Then, there were the controversies later in his career. What happened to his skin? Why did he get plastic surgery? Were his accusers telling the truth? Was he being manipulated in some way or was he a deceiver? Tabloids created false narratives, while serious journalists sought the truth. Whether you loved him or not—one thing is true: Michael made an indelible mark on generations of people!

When he died in 2009, it seemed like the world slowed for just a moment. I was in a store when a stranger told me the shocking news: “Did you hear? Michael Jackson just died.” I went to catch a train and people were crying in the station. No one could believe the “King of Pop” was gone. Hundreds of millions around the world watched his memorial service. Eventually, life moved on. But, Michael’s legacy survives through his music, family and fans.

THIS BRINGS ME TO 3 OBSERVATIONS

ONE: Money doesn’t solve all problems. Michael’s life shows that financial wealth—while valuable for many things—cannot ultimately shield us from our internal fears and insecurities. First-hand interviews from Michael and those close to him reveal three things in particular: His father’s abuse overshadowed his entire life. His childhood was one of constant performance to meet the expectations of millions. At times, the weight of fame was debilitating.

While Michael was grateful for his life and held onto a faith in God, these three realities caused insecurities within him that money could not rectify. Yes, he moved out of his father’s home as soon as he could. He created a fantasy world to try and recapture the childhood he lost. He found ways to seclude himself while navigating public life. But, the insecurities still persisted. For all of his money and creative genius, it would seem that his internal struggles remained unresolved.

Sadly, as Michael’s interviews progressed through the years, it became evident that life under the weight of these issues had detrimental effects. If this was the case for someone who had everything the world has to offer, then what about the rest of us? How can we resolve the fears, doubts and insecurities we carry each day? We are encouraged to do whatever it takes to reach our dreams. But, what about doing what it takes to become emotionally, spiritually and physically whole? This is something money can’t buy.

TWO: Lyrics matter. Michael believed God placed him on earth to use music as a vehicle to spread love, peace and happiness.¹ While his songs are mostly positive, there seems to be a disconnect somewhere. For example, “Beat It” cautions against prideful behavior that may cost you your life. “Billie Jean” and “Dirty Diana” show the dangers of obsession and manipulative romantic encounters. “Keep the Faith” encourages believing in yourself while trying to make your dreams reality. “Black or White” celebrates ethnic diversity. “Man in the Mirror” highlights self-reflection for making social change.

However, the message of “Thriller” is: evil wins. And the songs, “If I Were God,” “Keep the Faith,” and “Heaven Can Wait”—don’t actually point us to God. They point us to ourselves. Surprisingly, in “Heaven Can Wait,” Michael elevates romantic desire above being with God in Heaven, saying he’d rather stay on earth to be with his lover. If Michael felt God gave him music for a purpose, why would he write a song that would cause hearers to envision God as “a distant second” to an earthly lover?

The songs we sing embed into our souls. They influence our actions and worldviews. Millions listen to Michael’s songs. How many deeply examine them? As a Christian, examining lyrics is vital, because we should want to celebrate messages that align with Christ’s teachings.²  Michael understood the power of music to move the soul and transform the mind. We must understand that lyrics matter and be intentional about our song selections, because they can influence the direction of our lives.

THREE: Death is the great equalizer. Everyone—from the famous to the unknown—will die someday and give an account of their life to God.

Michael Jackson’s 3 solo world tours drew over 12.6 million fans! Thriller remains the best-selling album of all time. Guinness World Records lists Michael as the “Most Successful Entertainer of All Time.” Millions patterned their lives after Michael. Some underwent plastic surgery to physically look like him! Concert fans screamed his name, sang every song, longed to be near him and fainted from hysteria. To many who worshiped him, Michael’s iconic moonwalk was akin to “Jesus walking on water.” But even the “King of Pop” could not conquer death… and so, he too, must stand before the KING of Kings.³

All of us will give an account to God for our earthly lives. The Bible is clear: we can’t work our way into God’s Kingdom. Rather, it’s a free gift we must receive through Christ.⁴ No amount of worldly success guarantees entrance into Heaven because sin corrupts us all. If we don’t let Jesus cleanse us through His shed blood, then our works, no matter how good, remain filthy in God’s Holy Presence.⁵

The Bible indicates on judgment day all will bow the knee to Jesus.⁶ Everyone will acknowledge Him as Lord to the glory of God the Father. Then those who rejected Christ in this life will be condemned to outer darkness. Those who received Christ will be welcomed into His eternal kingdom.⁷ And Jesus will be seen for who He truly is: The Central Person of all human existence! Then, every song written by earth’s greatest artists and sung by millions will pale in comparison to the eternal anthems that will be composed and sung by billions of saints—all to the glory of God!⁸

A PERFECT IMPERFECT EXAMPLE

Michael Jackson’s life is an example of human potential AND a cautionary tale of human potential. As an entertainer, he could not be outworked. His achievements soared high, but internally his insecurities dragged him into the greatest depths. Like the rest of us, he wasn’t perfect and needed a Savior.

Michael grew up in a religious home. He read the Bible and publicly thanked God for his talent and awards. But it’s clear from his life that humans are not made to be worshiped. Only the Creator of the universe, can and should handle that weight of glory.⁹ Everything else is finite and dependent on Christ.

What was the condition of Michael’s heart before God when he died? We’ll have to wait until we step into eternity before we can find out. I imagine however, at that moment, Michael Jackson will be the least of our concerns… In the meantime, I do plan to see the new film. The actor playing Michael is actually his nephew, Jafaar Jackson! So, this movie highlights the man who impacted millions and the talent of his nephew who is re-introducing his uncle’s legacy to our present generation.

When I see the film, I’ll also consider what kind of legacy are we creating? And how do we prepare for the life which awaits us after we die? Perhaps, God allowed Michael Jackson to reach the pinnacle of worldly success to show us what Jesus proclaimed in John’s gospel: “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” Our ultimate meaning in life is not found in our achievements nor possessions. It is found in having a relationship with our Heavenly Father through Jesus His Son, as we then use our God-given talents to point others to His glory.¹⁰ 

Michael Jackson is, “the King of Pop,” but even kings must bow their knees to Jesus: the undisputed KING of Kings and LORD of Lords.”

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NOTES:

1: Ebony/Jet 1987 video interview.

2: Romans 1:32; 12:9; Ephesians 5:11; Philippians 4:8; 1 Corinthians 13:6; Psalm 97:10

3: Hebrews 9:27; Revelation 20:11-15

4: Ephesians 2:8-9; John 3:16-21

5: Isaiah 64:6; John 13:8

6: Philippians 2:10-11

7: Daniel 12:1-3; Matthew 25:30-46; John 5:24-29; Jude 1

8: Psalm 96:1-3; 98:1-3; 149:1-5; Isaiah 42:10-12; Revelation 5:9; 14:3; 15:3

9: Psalm 95:6; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Revelation 4:11

10: John 6:27-29; 17:1-3; Luke 12:15; Matthew 5:16