Soul Man Actor Cedric the Entertainer talks Christianity: Being ‘Real’ vs. ‘Religious’
Monday, August 13, 2012 at 12:06PM 
Article by Joseph Lowery/EEW Magazine Staff
While One Million Moms is calling for a boycott of TV Land’s new hit sitcom, “Soul Man,” starring Cedric the Entertainer and Niecy Nash, accusing the show of mocking Christianity, Cedric, who plays Reverend Boyce “The Voice” Ballentine, doesn’t quite see it that way.
In his mind, the series places a comedic spin on the real-life struggles of imperfect Christians to live out their faith in this modern age.
"I grew up in the church. I believe in being good-willed to others, being fair to your fellow man and trying to live in truth and kindness, and helping your fellowman,” he says in an interview with the Huffington Post. “That's the kind of spirit and behavior that I would consider to be Christ-like."
The shows interpretation of Christian theology and biblical ideology are not overarching themes. Yet, the faith component is what compelled many viewers from the faith-based market to give it a try. Savvy marketing, with a special emphasis on the show’s religious angle, has been heavily geared toward African American audiences—statistically among the most religiously devout group.
According to a recent survey conducted by the Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation, 74 percent of African American women state that living a religious life is of the utmost importance to them and 70 percent of black men feel the same.
Needless to say, issues of faith matter to the black community.
“For me the show is also about questioning people's ideas that because you go to church, you are always so right,” Cedric explains. “I want to show that real Christians are not about being sinless but sinning less. If I was ever to fall as a star I wouldn't want people to beat me down because I play a preacher on TV.”
His goal is to portray what "real" Christianity looks like, without hiding behind "religious" ideas and notions.
What do you think about the comedian’s take on Christianity? Does he have the right idea or it it inconsistent with the Bible’s encouragement to crucify the flesh and abstain from wrongdoing? Tell EEW what you think.
Reader Comments (7)
I don't fully agree with that. Although Christians are not perfect our GOAL and can't be just to "sin less" as opposed to what? Should we aim for twice a week instead of four times a week? The idea is that we are empowered through the Holy Spirit to live righteously and IF we mess up we have an advocate with Jesus Christ. I hate it when actors try to dissect the word of God. Stick to playing the preacher Ced, don't try to BE one.
I have seen the show and I'm not a fan. I'm not offended as much as I am unamused. It's just bad writing. They really need to get some new people in there.
They marketed the show to Christians but it's NOT a Christian show. So if you're expecting a theologically sound show, keep flipping to the next channel.
One Million Moms: #SITDOWN
Eh The show has its moments. It's not the funniest but not the worst either.
I just feel like some saints forget they haven't always been saved! No Christian leader or household is perfect! Making a perfect Christian TV show is unrealistic! Come on ladies, be honest. If Cedric and Niecy were picture perfect then some would STILL complain and say Christians aren't boring or perfect etc... If you don't like the show don't watch it. And I wouldn't expect theology from a sitcom anyway. But I think the world needs to see Christians aren't so uptight and that we live just like we do. The only difference is we follow the Word of God and trust in God!
@SRHM I am in complete agreement. I think Christians are way too uptight especially when it comes to image. We are real people. HUMAN! We make mistakes. Can't we just be glad that a sitcom is even exploring Christianity. It's a funny show. Lay off Cedric.