Megadeth’s David Ellefson on Sharing Religious Studies With Dave Mustaine

We recently reported on Megadeth bassist David Ellefson's journey to become a Lutheran pastor. Now, the bassist has spoken to the Raleigh Evangelical Examiner about his in-depth religious discussions with Megadeth frontman Dave Mustaine.

"I’m enjoying the educational aspect of this," Ellefson revealed about his religious studies. "Learning what I can about the history of the church and Martin Luther’s discoveries of both the Old Testament law and New Testament gospel of Christ. I think my generation just gave up on church…much the same way Martin Luther questioned the church of his day. I think we are all drawn to the word of God but not sure about the church of our youth as it was antiquated and seemed culturally irrelevant to us.  So, my hope is that with a modern day discovery we can apply God’s word more universally to all of us, even us in rock 'n' roll!"

Ellefson disclosed the religious connection he and Mustaine have. Dave and I never dispute scripture but rather we study it together. "Dave is actually very well versed and read on scripture, especially the Old Testament," Ellefson explained. "I’ve learned quite a bit from him over the years.  I think his understanding of Moses is superior to what mine used to be.  I can’t say we disagree.  It’s just that we each bring something different to our discussions.  I think that is the beauty of scripture it is irrefutable if you really study it as it is written and don’t try to scramble it to fit your life.  We are to fit it, not the other way around."

Ellefson continued, "I don’t see Megadeth being a quote/unquote 'Christian Band' but rather a band that has Christians in it. We’ve used concepts and scripture in our songs for years.  One example is in 'Ashes in Your Mouth' where we say, 'Turning plowshares into swords.'"

Megadeth are currently headlining the 2012 Gigantour with Motorhead, Volbeat and Lacuna Coil.