The West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ is a real congregation located in Dubuque, Iowa, which gained widespread internet fame due to the viral ‘Rappin’ for Jesus’ video. The church is known for its enthusiastic outreach efforts and its focus on sharing the Gospel through creative media.
You may have stumbled across the name “West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ” while scrolling through social media or searching online, perhaps after encountering the now-famous “Rappin’ for Jesus” video that took the internet by storm. It is natural to wonder whether this church is real, who is behind the viral content, and what this congregation actually believes — especially when it comes to core Christian doctrines like the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. This article aims to provide clear, honest answers rooted in Scripture, separating fact from fiction while pointing you toward the unchanging truth of the Gospel.
Whether you are a lifelong believer seeking to deepen your understanding of biblical prophecy or someone who is simply curious about what the Church of Christ teaches, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ, the origins of the “Rappin’ for Jesus” video, and the Bible’s teaching on the return of our Lord and Savior. At the heart of it all stands Jesus Christ — the risen Son of God, whose promised return gives every believer hope and purpose. Let us explore these topics together with open hearts and a commitment to God’s Word.
What is the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ?
The Viral ‘Rappin’ for Jesus’ Video
The West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ became widely known through a viral video titled “Rappin’ for Jesus.” This video featured a church member rapping about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It quickly spread across the internet, capturing the attention of millions. Many viewers found the video both entertaining and thought-provoking. However, the video also sparked important conversations about how the Gospel is shared in modern culture.
The video’s humor and unexpected style made it highly shareable. As a result, it reached audiences far beyond the local church community. This brought both opportunities and challenges for the church. On one hand, it opened doors for evangelism. On the other hand, it raised questions about the church’s authenticity and intentions.
Despite the viral nature of the video, the core message remained centered on Jesus Christ. The lyrics emphasized the need for salvation through Christ alone. This aligns with the biblical truth found in Acts 4:12: “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”
Key Figures: Jim Colerick and Brian Spinney
Two individuals are most closely associated with the “Rappin’ for Jesus” video. Jim Colerick and Brian Spinney played central roles in its creation. Their involvement brought both local and national attention to the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ.
Here are the key figures connected to the video:
- Jim Colerick — Portrayed “Pastor Jim” in the video, delivering rap lyrics about faith and the Gospel message.
- Brian Spinney — Portrayed “Farmer John,” a character that became an iconic figure in the viral spread of the video.
Their performances were memorable and distinctive. Furthermore, the characters they portrayed resonated with viewers across different backgrounds. The video demonstrated a creative, if unconventional, approach to sharing the message of Jesus Christ. It reminded believers that the Gospel can reach people in unexpected ways.
Ultimately, the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ serves as a reminder that the message of Jesus Christ is for everyone. Whether through traditional worship or creative outreach, the call remains the same. As Romans 1:16 declares, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.”
What is Rappin for Jesus from?
The Origin of the Video
The “Rappin’ for Jesus” video emerged from the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ, a small congregation in Dubuque, Iowa. The video was created as an outreach tool intended to share the message of Jesus Christ in a creative, unconventional way. It features church members performing a rap song about their faith. The goal was to reach people who might not otherwise walk through the doors of a church. The video gained unexpected viral attention online, drawing both curiosity and criticism from viewers across the internet.
However, beneath the surface of a quirky, low-budget video lies a sincere effort by real believers who wanted to spread the Gospel. The West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ is a genuine congregation. Its members are real people with a genuine desire to honor Jesus Christ. The video reflects their heart, even if the delivery was unconventional.
The Actors Behind the Characters
The two central figures in the “Rappin’ for Jesus” video are Jim Colerick and Brian Spinney. Both men are members of the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ. Jim Colerick, who plays the lead rapper, delivered his lines with earnest enthusiasm. Brian Spinney provided additional support and participation in the performance.
Their willingness to step outside their comfort zones demonstrated a genuine love for sharing the message of Jesus. As Scripture tells us, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, NIV). These men took that command seriously, even if their methods were unconventional.
It is important to note that the video was not intended as a joke or a mockery of faith. Rather, it was a creative expression of devotion to Jesus Christ. The West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ and its members remain committed to proclaiming the truth of the Gospel, regardless of how the world perceives their efforts.
What does the Church of Christ believe about the Second Coming?
Biblical Basis for the Second Coming
The Church of Christ holds a firm belief in the literal, visible, and glorious return of Jesus Christ. This is not a metaphor or a symbolic idea. It is a real, future event promised in Scripture. The Bible speaks clearly that Jesus will come again.
The book of Acts records the words of the angels to the disciples after Jesus ascended: “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven” (Acts 1:11). Furthermore, the apostle Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command” (1 Thessalonians 4:16). This is the blessed hope of every believer.
The West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ, like all congregations of Christ, anchors its faith in these core biblical truths about the Second Coming:
- A Personal Return: Jesus Himself will return. It will not be a spirit or a feeling. It will be the same Jesus who walked the earth, was crucified, and rose again.
- A Visible Return: Every eye will see Him. His return will be a public, undeniable event for all the world (Revelation 1:7).
- A Triumphant Return: He will come with power and great glory, not as a humble baby in a manger, but as King of Kings and Lord of Lords (Matthew 24:30).
This belief is not based on human speculation. It is rooted in the direct promises of Jesus and the teachings of the apostles. As Hebrews 9:28 states, “Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.”
How This Belief Shapes Daily Life
The promise of Christ’s return is not just a future event to be debated. It is a present reality that transforms how believers live each day. For members of the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ, this hope provides both comfort and a call to action.
First, it provides enduring hope and comfort. In times of suffering, loss, or uncertainty, the promise of Jesus’ return reminds believers that this world is not all there is. Paul encouraged the church, “Therefore encourage one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:18). The struggles of today are temporary. A glorious future with Christ is certain.
Second, it motivates holy and godly living. The apostle John wrote, “Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:3). The knowledge that Jesus could return at any moment encourages believers to live righteously, not out of fear, but out of love and reverence for their Savior.
This belief also shapes the church’s focus on evangelism and service. If time is short, sharing the Gospel becomes urgent. The church is called to be active in its community, living out the love of Christ and pointing others to the hope found in Him. This is the heart of the church’s mission.
In summary, the Second Coming is the ultimate anchor for the faith of the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ. It assures believers that Jesus is Lord, that history is moving toward His triumphant return, and that their faith is not in vain. As Jesus declared in John 14:1-3, “I will come back and take you to be with me.” This is the hope that sustains them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ located?
The West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ is associated with the city of Dubuque, Iowa. However, it is important to understand the context. This church became widely known through the viral video “Rappin’ for Jesus.” The video was a creative project. It was not a typical representation of a local congregation’s weekly activities. The “West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ” as depicted in the video was a fictional setting created for that specific production.
If you are looking for a real Church of Christ in the Dubuque area, there are several faithful congregations. These churches focus on New Testament Christianity. They follow the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles. You can find a local congregation by searching online directories. The Christian Churches/Churches of Christ are part of the Restoration Movement. This movement seeks to restore the practices of the early church. [1]
Furthermore, the core message of any true Church of Christ is always Jesus. It is not about a building or a location. It is about a community of believers. They gather to worship God, study the Bible, and encourage one another. As it says in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Who is Farmer John in ‘Rappin’ for Jesus’?
Farmer John is a character in the viral video “Rappin’ for Jesus.” He is portrayed by an actor. The character was part of the video’s unique and memorable presentation. The video used humor and modern music to share a serious message. Its goal was to make the Gospel accessible and engaging.
The actor’s performance was intentional. It showed that faith can be expressed in many ways. The character of Farmer John helped bridge a gap. He made the message relatable to a wider audience. This approach aligns with the apostle Paul’s teaching. In 1 Corinthians 9:22, Paul says, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” The video used creativity to open doors for spiritual conversations.
Therefore, Farmer John is not a real farmer. He is a character created for a specific purpose. His role was to deliver the Gospel message in a fresh way. The video reminds us that sharing faith can take many forms. The most important thing is the truth of Jesus Christ. The message of salvation through Him is what truly matters. As Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
Is the West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ a real church?
The “West Dubuque 2nd Church of Christ” as seen in the “Rappin’ for Jesus” video is a fictional church. It was created for the purpose of the video’s narrative. The video was a creative project. It was not an actual, functioning congregation with regular services and members. The setting was a stage for the video’s message.
However, the video itself had a real impact. It sparked conversations about faith. It showed that the Gospel message can be shared creatively. Many people found the video entertaining. More importantly, it led some to reflect on their relationship with Jesus. The video’s success demonstrates the power of using modern media. It can be a tool for evangelism when centered on Christ.
In contrast, a real Church of Christ is a local body of believers. They follow the New Testament pattern. They practice believer’s baptism. They partake of the Lord’s Supper weekly. They focus on the authority of Scripture. A real church is defined by its faithfulness to God’s Word. It is not defined by a viral video. The true church is built on the foundation of Jesus Christ. As it says in Ephesians 2:20, “Built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.”
