Justin Bieber thinks many religious people are "lost".

The Canadian singer has been outspoken about his Christian beliefs throughout his career and recently got a large portrait of Jesus Christ etched on his calf.

The 17-year-old star insists he isn't as religious as many might think though and believes some practitioners take worship too far.

"A lot of people who are religious, I think they get lost. They go to church just to go to church," he told V magazine.

"I'm not trying to disrespect them... but for me, I focus more on praying and talking to Him. I don't have to go to church."

In a wide-ranging interview, Justin went on to compare himself to controversial boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. The athlete is viewed as the best boxer in the world by some and remains undefeated despite fighting 42 bouts. Justin has drawn parallels with his own career, especially as some fans are now waiting for Floyd to lose.

"Now that I'm on top, everyone wants to bring me down Everyone's trying to tug at me and take my spot. Like Floyd Mayweather, he's the best boxer in the world. Now he is a champion. Every time he goes to a fight now, people are like, He's going to lose this time,'" Justin mused.

Floyd's personal life has been marred in controversy, with the boxer currently awaiting a 90 day stint in prison following a domestic violence case.