Many believers criticize Bono for claiming to be Christian and failing to live in accordance with Evangelical standards and norms. Steve Stockman summarizes the cynicism of Christians as, “they drink and smoke and swear, how can you believe that they are still Christians?
Likewise Mark Joseph explains many believe U2 is successful in the entertainment industry because “they [are] willing to submerge strong and devout statements of faith and devotion, and instead write songs that [are] vague at best, avoiding whenever possible direct references to God” Despite criticisms, it is clear that Bono’s personal spiritual journey deeply impacts his music. He boldly quotes Psalms, chants Hallelujah, and openly worships God in front of stadiums of secular audiences.
His lifestyle reflects a strong relationship with his wife Alison Stewart and commitment to his four children. The humanitarian causes he advocates resonate from a Christian point of view with Biblical imperatives declaring the necessity of faith’s alignment with social justice.
Ultimately, the extent to which Bono lives between Christ and culture is debated.
Todays suggested reading One Step Closer: Why U2 Matters to Those Seeking God