Contemporary Christian Music artist Michael Tait is under scrutiny for sexual assault allegations

CCM singer Michael Tait is under scrutiny

When someone identifies as a "Christian' it indicates they have confessed belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. This does not make anyone perfect but when Christians fall short, there is more outrage as in the case of singer Michael Tait.

Some wrongly assume that being a Christian means you float on clouds and walk on water, but each person must live their own life and make individual choices just like those of other faiths or no faith at all. Still, those in leadership positions are often looked to as role models, and people are devastated when they fall from grace.

Tait gained his claim to fame singing with DC Talk and later The News Boys. He has now been accused of sexual assault by more than one man. As with other celebrities, it is alleged that Tait had been engaging in this misconduct for years. Three men have come forward with allegations of grooming, alcohol, and inappropriate touching. The Current Newsboys say they are horrified, heartbroken, and angry.

The Newsboys speak out

In a surprising turn of events, Adam Agee, the new lead singer for The Newsboys, revealed in a recent interview with The Christian Post that Tait, had unexpectedly announced his departure from the band, citing a need to 'focus on himself'.

"I know that he left, and he just gave us a few reasons why he was stepping down, and he just said he's going to focus on himself," Agee said. "Other than that, I don't know because we didn't discuss it further. Hopefully, he'll make some kind of a statement soon, but that, again, is just up to him. We wish it had happened a little sooner, but we can do nothing about that. I think we've tried to make the most out of it, and we wish him all the best moving forward."

Since Tait departed from the Newsboys, Tait has not made any public statements or posted on social media. There is no direct evidence linking his departure to the recent sexual allegations the timing is suspect and has led to speculation within the Christian music community.

Instead of directly addressing the recent allegations surrounding the former lead singer, the band has chosen a more cautious approach. They have released a statement indicating their official position, through their attorney, Samuel D. Lipshie of Bradley Arant Boult Cummings.

“While we are aware of unsubstantiated aspersion cast via internet towards Mr. Tait and Newsboys by one particular individual, because your questions revolve around the alleged behavior and actions of Mr. Tait, it would be inappropriate for Newsboys to speculate or comment,” the statement said.

“If what you allege can be supported with evidence, we would imagine Mr. Tait and his representatives will have something to say about the matter.”

Innocent until proven guilty?

Amidst the rush to judgment, a diverse range of opinions has emerged. While some argue that Tait should be shown love and given the chance to repent for his 'alleged' crimes, others maintain that sexual misconduct should be viewed with utmost severity. The consensus, however, is clear: forcing oneself on unwilling victims is never Acceptable.

Michael Tair not defending himself is one reason people within the Christian community assume the worst. Still, in America, everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The court of public opinion is something different. In times like these, it's difficult to consider not pointing at the speck in someone else's eye while not removing the log in your own. Sides are taken but time wll tell all.