Category: Diversity - Faith is the Evidence

Faith is the Evidence

Praying for Peace: A Call to Action for Israel and Gaza

10/21/2025

The headlines from Israel and Gaza are heartbreaking. Images of suffering, displacement, and conflict fill our screens, leaving many of us feeling helpless and overwhelmed. It's easy to despair when faced with such a profound human tragedy. But for those of us who believe, there's a crucial truth we must hold onto. this crisis, however devastating, is not beyond the reach of God’s power.

As followers of Jesus, the Prince of Peace, we are called to a higher standard. We are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves.

Matthew 22:37-40 ESV [37] And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. [38] This is the great and first commandment. [39] And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. [40] On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets.” (emphasis mine)

This commandment doesn't distinguish between nationalities, religions, or political affiliations. It simply calls us to love. And in the face of conflict, one of the most powerful ways we can express that love is through prayer.

Praying for both the Israeli and Palestinian people is not a passive act. It is an active demonstration of our faith, a tangible expression of hope in the midst of despair. We pray for comfort for those who mourn, healing for the injured, safety for the vulnerable, and wisdom for leaders. We pray for an end to violence and for the pathways to lasting peace to be revealed.

Our prayers are powerful, even when we can’t immediately see what God is doing behind the scenes.

James 5:16 ESV [16] Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. (emphasis mine)

We may not understand the complexities of the political landscape, but God does. He is much stronger than even the most intricate and heartbreaking conflict.

So, let us not give up! Let's stand together, united in faith and purpose, to intercede for peace in Israel and Gaza. Let our collective voices rise, believing that God can bring light into the darkest places and that His will for peace will ultimately prevail.

Why Christians Should Embrace DEI (Imago Dei): A Biblical Imperative for Love, Justice, and Dignity

10/9/2025

In today's rapidly evolving world, terms like "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion" (DEI) are often heard in corporate and social justice circles. For some Christians, these concepts might even evoke suspicion, perceived as secular frameworks potentially at odds with biblical truth. However, a deeper dive into scripture reveals that the core tenets of DEI are not only compatible with Christian faith but are, in fact, a biblical imperative for those seeking to live out the radical love and justice of Jesus Christ. Despite what Charlie Kirk, many in the white evangelical community and the current US President’s administration say.

DEI isn't just a trend; it's a framework that calls us to intentionally recognize the inherent worth of every individual, foster environments where all can thrive, and actively work to dismantle barriers that prevent full participation. When viewed through a biblical lens, DEI emerges as a practical and powerful way to embody the very heart of God.

The Bible teaches that every person is created in the image of God (Imago Dei), giving them inherent worth and value, regardless of their background, ethnicity, social status, or abilities. Embracing DEI is a practical way to live out the Great Commandment to love your neighbor as yourself and the call to pursue justice.

Mark 12:31 NIV The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

1. Diversity: Celebrating God's Intricate Design

At its essence, diversity acknowledges and celebrates the vast tapestry of human experience – differences in ethnicity, gender, socio-economic background, ability, age, perspective, and more. This isn't just about tolerance; it's about valuing the richness that these differences bring.

From a biblical perspective, diversity is a reflection of God's own creative genius. Look at creation itself: an astounding array of species, landscapes, and phenomena, each unique yet part of a harmonious whole.

The New Testament illustrates this in the metaphor of the Church as the "body of Christ".

1 Corinthians 12:12-19-27 NIV [12] Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. [13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. [14] Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. [15] Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. [16] And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. [17] If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? [18] But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. [19] If they were all one part, where would the body be? [20] As it is, there are many parts, but one body. [21] The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” [22] On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are treated with special modesty, [24] while our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, [25] so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. [26] If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. [27] Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

Just as a body has many parts – hands, feet, eyes, ears – each with a distinct function, so too does the Church comprise diverse individuals, all essential and valued. To neglect or diminish any part is to weaken the whole.

Revelation 7:9 NIV After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.

Scriptural Connection:

Genesis 1:27 NIV So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

This foundational verse establishes the inherent dignity of all people as image-bearers of God.

Galatians 3:28 NIV There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

This revolutionary statement dismantles social hierarchies and affirms radical equality and unity in Christ, even amidst diverse identities.

2. Equity: Pursuing God's Justice

Equity goes beyond treating everyone "the same." It recognizes that historical and systemic disadvantages exist, and therefore, different approaches or resources may be needed to ensure fair opportunities and outcomes for all. While equality means giving everyone the same shoes, equity means giving everyone shoes that fit.

This concept resonates deeply with God's consistent call for justice throughout scripture. Time and again, God demonstrates a special concern for the marginalized, the oppressed, the poor, and the vulnerable. Prophets railed against injustice, and Jesus himself actively ministered to those on the fringes of society. Equity is an active pursuit of right relationships and dismantling barriers that prevent individuals from flourishing.

Scriptural Connection:

Micah 6:8 NIV He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Justice is not optional for the believer.

Deuteronomy 10:18-19 NIV [18] He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the foreigner residing among you, giving them food and clothing. [19] And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.

God's heart for the marginalized is clear and demands our active response.

James 1:27 NIV [27] Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

This verse highlights practical, equitable care as true worship.

3. Inclusion: Embracing God's Welcome

Inclusion is the practice of ensuring that all people feel valued, respected, heard, and able to fully participate. It's about creating environments where everyone belongs and can contribute their unique gifts and perspectives without fear of discrimination or marginalization.

Jesus' ministry was profoundly inclusive. He welcomed tax collectors, prostitutes, Samaritans, and Gentiles – people ostracized by the religious establishment of his day. He crossed social, ethnic, and gender boundaries, breaking down barriers and extending an unconditional invitation to all. The early Church, in its purest form, embodied this radical inclusion, forming communities where believers from all walks of life shared meals, resources, and fellowship.

Scriptural Connection:

Romans 15:7 NIV Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

This is a direct command to practice radical hospitality and acceptance.

Ephesians 2:19-22 NIV [19] Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household, [20] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. [21] In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. [22] And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

This speaks to the profound inclusion offered in Christ, where all are brought into God's family.

James 2:1-4 NIV [1] My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. [2] Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. [3] If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” [4] have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

A strong warning against partiality and exclusion within the believing community.

A Kingdom Call to Action

Embracing DEI is not about conforming to secular ideologies; it's about aligning our lives and our communities more closely with the heart of God and the teachings of Christ. It's an active demonstration of love for our neighbor, a pursuit of biblical justice, and a commitment to honoring the divine image in every person.

As Christians, we are called to be agents of reconciliation, bringing healing and wholeness to a broken world. By intentionally practicing diversity, pursuing equity, and fostering true inclusion, we participate in building God's kingdom on Earth – a kingdom characterized by radical love, profound justice, and the joyful celebration of every unique soul.

Let us prayerfully consider how we can embody these principles more fully in our churches, our families, our workplaces, and our communities, reflecting the boundless love and inclusive welcome of our Lord.

Beyond the Echo Chamber: Finding the Full Counsel of God in a Single-Issue World

10/7/2025

The murder of Charlie Kirk was a tragedy that rightly provoked outrage and anger across the faith community. The condemnation of violence, regardless of the victim or their political views, is a moral imperative.

However, this has prompted a careful and long-overdue self-reflection on an issue that has concerned me for many years, that issue is the church’s tendency to center its attention on a single political or moral issue, often to the neglect of the "entire counsel of God"

We must examine where our priorities truly lie. A stark and painful example is the disproportionate focus on the "right to life" for the unborn—a noble and necessary cause, as every person is “fearfully and wonderfully made”

Psalms 139:14 NIV I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

We quote this scripture while simultaneously seeming to ignore, or even demonize, those who protest the killing of Black and brown people by law enforcement. The Bible speaks clearly about the value of all life, both in the womb and in the streets.

Proverbs 31:8-9 NIV [8] Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. [9] Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.

When the church’s moral outrage is selective, it creates a crisis of credibility and fails to reflect the comprehensive love and justice of Jesus.

This selective morality becomes even more complicated when we consider the figures we champion. While Charlie Kirk frequently invoked biblical principles, he also made deeply troubling and divisive public statements, including calling Martin Luther King Jr. "a bad man," labeling the Civil Rights Act a "huge mistake," and asserting that Black and brown women in positions of power and authority were only there because of their race, not their qualifications.

The outrage over his assassination is justified; violence is never the answer. But how do we reconcile defending a person's life against murder while tacitly or actively ignoring the hateful and exclusionary nature of their public rhetoric, especially when that rhetoric directly attacks the dignity and value of other human beings?

1 John 4:20-21 NIV [20] Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. [21] And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.

The Church cannot claim to love its neighbor while selectively endorsing messages that dehumanize entire groups of people.

Our ultimate standard cannot be a political platform or a popular personality; it must be the entirety of Scripture. Jesus taught us to love God and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV [37] Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ [40] All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Here’s another one of Jesus’ commands.

John 7:24 NIV 'Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”

A unified approach must simultaneously defend the unborn and demand justice for the marginalized, support strong families while challenging systemic racism, and promote personal responsibility alongside caring for the poor and the immigrant.

Micah 6:8 NIV He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

The call of the Church is to take the “entire counsel of God”, not just the parts that fit comfortably with a political agenda or personal preference.

Acts 20:25-27 NIV [25] “Now I know that none of you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will ever see me again. [26] Therefore, I declare to you today that I am innocent of the blood of any of you. [27] For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God. (emphasis mine)

This means wrestling with the complex truth that all people are made in God's image, and our commitment to their dignity must be constant and universal. We must be quick to condemn all violence—whether it’s directed at a political figure or an unarmed citizen—and equally quick to champion the fullness of God's justice for everyone.

“Doing Church” When Not Going to Church Is Not "Doing Church"

9/27/2025

The word "church" often conjures images of stained glass, padded pews, and a Sunday service. And while the gathering of believers is undoubtedly central to the Christian experience, many have tried to replace the act of gathering with individual, isolated spirituality. They might say, "I can be spiritual on my own," or "I don't need to go to church to be the church."
While it is absolutely true that you are the church—a member of the body of Christ—it is a profound error to think that not going to church fulfills your calling to do church. The New Testament is clear: our faith is meant to be lived out together.

The Reasons We Stay Away

There are lots of Christians that say they don’t do church. They don’t do church for various reasons.

The Painful Past: Many people have had a bad experience with a church member or pastor, fell for a false teaching and got hurt.

The Hypocrisy Hurdle: They don’t see any difference between churchgoers and people who don’t go, or are not even believers. Church repulses them because they feel it’s full of hypocrites. Other people accept that people are hypocrites by nature; they just can’t stand churches talking about money.

The Isolation Argument: They think they can read the Bible and gain as much knowledge by themselves as if they went to church every week. They believe they can get all the Christian content they need from websites, podcasts, and books—even television and radio.

The Irrelevance or Guilt Factor: Even if they can get past those issues, still others steer clear because church is irrelevant to their everyday lives. Some may even want to attend church, but when they do, they feel even guiltier than they did before. The pastor and all the other put-together, perfect people just make them feel worse about themselves. They tried church before, and it didn’t make a difference. So why bother?

The "Super Spiritual" Standard: Finally, there are the “super spiritual.” Their ideals are so high that no church can possibly meet their standards. They have detailed lists of what’s wrong with each church in town. The worship music isn’t “Spirit-led” enough, or it’s too loud, too soft, or too whatever. The sermons are too shallow or too intellectual. The missions program isn’t aggressive enough or it’s all the church talks about. They spend too much money on the building or not enough.

These objections are real, and the pain behind them is understandable. However, our reliance cannot be on the perfect people or the flawless execution of a service; our faith must rest on God's clear instruction for His church. God never intended for his believers to be independent. He wants us dependent on one another and on him.

Here is why skipping the assembly in favor of solo spirituality is missing the core of what it means to "do church," and the scriptures that guide us.

1. The Command to Assemble (Even With Imperfect People)

The most direct call to "do church" by gathering is found in the letter to the Hebrews.

Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

This instruction is given knowing the people gathering will be imperfect. The purpose is not to find a perfect church, but to "stir up" (challenge) and "encourage" one another. When you isolate yourself due to hypocrisy or past hurts, you deny others the chance to encourage you, and you deny yourself the opportunity to practice love and forgiveness. The individual is weakened, and the corporate body is diminished.

2. The Necessity of Corporate Worship and Teaching

"Church" is the place where the spiritual gifts are meant to operate for the good of all, where God's Word is systematically taught, and where we celebrate the sacraments/ordinances together. The early church modeled this perfectly.

Acts 2:42, ESV And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.

"Doing church" involves devotion to these four things, teaching, breaking of bread, and prayers

We can get all the Christian content we need from websites, podcasts, and books—even television and radio. I don't have a big problem with Christian television, radio, and tape ministries, websites (I have one), but they are no substitute for regular attendance and involvement in worship services, ministry outreaches, and educational programs of a local church. The communal teaching provides a framework for growth, accountability, and depth that an individual study, by yourself, simply cannot offer.

3. The Picture of the Body (Why We Need Each Other)

The Church which is the Body of Christ is an organism, not a collection of independent individuals.

1 Corinthians 12:12 ESV For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.

A hand separated from the body is not just isolated; it's dead. You might have the spirit of the church, but the function of the church requires you to be connected to the other members.

1 Corinthians 12:14-26 ESV [14] For the body does not consist of one member but of many. [15] If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. [16] And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. [17] If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? [18] But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. [19] If all were a single member, where would the body be? [20] As it is, there are many parts, yet one body. [21] The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” [22] On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, [23] and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, [24] which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, [25] that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. [26] If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.

Your unique gift is meant to serve others in the gathering, and you miss out on the vital support and service of other members when you stay away. The "super spiritual" person needs to exercise their gifts in service to the "irrelevant" community, and the person feeling guilty needs the encouragement of the body.

1 Corinthians 12:4-7 ESV [4] Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; [5] and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; [6] and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. [7] To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

4. Living Out Love and Accountability

Ultimately, "doing church" is about living out the Great Commandment to love one another in a visible, practical, and accountable way.

John 13:34-35 ESV [34] A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. [35] By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

This love is best learned and practiced within the imperfect, messy reality of a local church community. It’s where you are called to bear one another's burdens, offer forgiveness and submit to those God has placed in leadership positions over the local church community. These actions are impossible to do effectively in isolation.

Galatians 6:2 ESV Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Colossians 3:12-13 ESV [12] Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, [13] bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.

Hebrews 13:17 ESV Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.

It is a powerful continuous process to maintain a strong foundation in faith and align our priorities with God's will. That process is deeply supported by being rooted in a local church.

Yes, you are the church every day of the week, in your job, and in your home. But the doing of church—the biblical, vibrant, corporate life—requires that you gather with the rest of the body. Do not miss out on the spiritual power, growth, and accountability that God designed the assembly to provide.

The Peril of Political Theology: Reconciling Faith with Justice in Gaza

9/20/2025

For many Christians, unwavering support for the modern state of Israel has become a defining aspect of their political and theological identity. This position is often rooted in a specific interpretation of biblical prophecy and a belief that God's covenant with ancient Israel applies directly to the contemporary nation-state. However, this approach has led to a difficult and, for some, untenable situation: trying to reconcile the actions of the Israeli government, particularly in its treatment of Palestinians, with the core tenets of Christian faith—justice, compassion, and peacemaking.

This post in no way discounts or takes lightly the horrors of the October 7th attack by Hamas on Israel, or Israel's right to exist. That horrific event, which included the massacre of civilians and the taking of hostages, stands as a tragic and brutal act of terrorism. However, this post does address what the current secular government of Israel, is doing in Gaza today to Palestinians, including Christian Palestinians.

The scriptures are clear on God's heart for the oppressed and marginalized.

Psalms 82:3-4 NIV Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.

This call is not limited to a specific people group but is a universal mandate for those who seek to follow God. When we see reports of disproportionate military force, the displacement of families, and the ongoing blockade of Gaza, how do we, as people of faith, align these actions with the divine call for justice?

The danger lies in a political theology that contorts scripture to fit a predetermined political agenda. Instead of letting the Bible shape our worldview, we risk using it as a tool to justify our existing biases. This is a profound and fundamental misstep.

Micah 6:8 NIV He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

This serves as a powerful corrective, reminding us that God's primary requirement is not blind political allegiance, but a life characterized by justice and mercy.

This very issue of social injustice was a primary reason for the downfall of ancient Israel. The prophets repeatedly condemned the people not just for idolatry, but for their cruel exploitation of the poor. The prophet Amos, in particular, excoriated the wealthy elite who would "trample the needy and do away with the poor of the land." He condemned those who couldn't wait for the Sabbath and religious festivals to end so they could get back to their deceitful business practices, cheating the poor by making their measures smaller and their scales dishonest.

Amos 8:4-7 NIV Hear this, you who trample the needy and do away with the poor of the land, saying, “When will the New Moon be over that we may sell grain, and the Sabbath be ended that we may market wheat?”—skimping on the measure, boosting the price and cheating with dishonest scales, buying the poor with silver and the needy for a pair of sandals, selling even the sweepings with the wheat. The Lord has sworn by himself, the Pride of Jacob: “I will never forget anything they have done.

Similarly, the prophet Ezekiel, speaking about Jerusalem's sins, likens them to Sodom, not just for the well-known sins of that city, but for its foundational failings.

Ezekiel 16:49 NIV Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy.

These passages are a sober reminder that God's judgment on His people was often a direct result of their failure to care for the most vulnerable among them.

Jesus himself challenged the rigid religious and political structures of his time, consistently siding with the outcast and marginalized. His ministry was a radical demonstration of God's love for all people, transcending national and ethnic boundaries. Jesus challenges us to be agents of reconciliation, not promoters of conflict.

Matthew 5:9 NIV Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Maintaining a solid foundation in faith requires continuous self-reflection and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. It means being open to God's guidance, even when that guidance challenges our political allegiances. Let us pray for peace in the Holy Land and for the humility to align our priorities with God's will, which is always for justice and compassion for all people.

When Love for Jesus Clashes with Hate for People

9/18/2025

This blog post is written to my dear brothers and sisters in Christ.

We stand together, many of us, on the firm foundation of faith. We claim to love Jesus with all our hearts, and we genuinely believe we love people. We affirm what Jesus said after being asked “which is the greatest commandment in the Law.

Matthew 22:36-40 NIV [36] “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” [37] Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ [40] All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

We sing songs of redemption, preach sermons of grace, and declare the transformative power of the Gospel.

And yet, there’s an uncomfortable truth that sometimes stares back at us from the mirror of our own lives and our communities: racism persists within the Church.

How can this be? How can those who claim the name of Christ, who follow the one who broke down every dividing wall, harbor prejudice, perpetuate stereotypes, or remain silent in the face of injustice simply because of someone's skin color or ethnicity?

The tension is undeniable. The claim to love Jesus while simultaneously holding onto racial bias creates a profound spiritual contradiction. This isn't just a political issue; it's a profound theological and moral failing that undermines the very Gospel we proclaim.

God's Impartial Love and Creation

Let's be clear: racism is an affront to God's character and His creation. From the very beginning, God made humanity in His own image.

Genesis 1:27-28 NIV So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground. (emphasis mine)

This means every single person, regardless of their skin tone, language, or heritage, carries the divine imprint. To demean or discriminate against any person is to demean the very image of God.

The Apostle Peter, after a powerful vision and encounter with Cornelius, declared, "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right".

Acts 10:34-35 NIV Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right".

If God shows no partiality, how can we, His followers, justify doing so?

The Church: A Unified Body, Not a Divided One

The Church is meant to be a display of God's diverse unity.

1 Corinthians 12:12-14 NIV Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.

Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.

Ephesians 2:11-18 NIV [11] Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— [12] remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. [13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. [14] For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, [15] by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, [16] and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. [17] He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. [18] For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. (emphasis mine)

This "dividing wall" was a literal wall in the temple, but it also symbolizes all forms of separation, especially those based on ethnic identity.

When we allow racial prejudice to fester, we are actively rebuilding the very walls Christ tore down with His blood. We are making a mockery of the unity He prayed for in John 17 and undermining our most powerful testimony to the world.

John 17:20-23 NIV [20] “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, [21] that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. [22] I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— [23] I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. (emphasis mine)

A church divided by race cannot effectively declare a Gospel of reconciliation.

Love in Action: The True Test

1 John 4:20-21 NIV Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.

This isn't subtle. If our "love for Jesus" does not translate into genuine, active, empathetic love for all people—especially those who are different from us, those who have been marginalized, those who have suffered under systems of injustice—then our claim rings hollow.

1 Corinthians 13:1 NIV If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.

Love is not just a feeling; it is an action. It is patient and kind. It seeks justice, defends the oppressed, and actively works to dismantle systems that diminish human dignity.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV [4] Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. [5] It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. [6] Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. [7] It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

An Invitation to Self-Examination and Repentance

This is not about shaming, but about sincere self-examination. If you identify as a Christian or evangelical who loves Jesus, but find a flicker of racial prejudice in your heart, a tendency to generalize, to stereotype, to dismiss the experiences of others, or to remain silent when you see injustice, then I invite you to bring it before the Lord.

Pray for conviction: Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any hidden biases within you.
Listen: Seek out and genuinely listen to the experiences of people from different racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Repent: Confess any racist thoughts, words, or actions, and commit to turning away from them.
Act: Actively pursue justice, reconciliation, and unity within your spheres of influence.

The call to love is radical. It demands that we dismantle our idols, including the idol of racial superiority or comfort in segregation. Let us not be found saying we love Jesus while our hearts harbor disdain for those He died to save. Let our lives truly reflect the inclusive, unifying, and transformative love of Christ.

No One Is Excluded From God's Kingdom Because Of Race, Color, Nationality, Or Political Persuasion

9/6/2025

In a world often fractured by division, it's easy to forget the foundational truth of God's boundless love and inclusive nature. We see lines drawn, walls built, and people separated by labels, beliefs, and backgrounds. Yet, the message of the Gospel stands in stark contrast to this human tendency. God's Kingdom is not an exclusive club; it is an open invitation, extended to all people, regardless of their earthly distinctions.

The beauty of God's design is found in the incredible diversity of humanity. Every person, irrespective of their race, the color of their skin, their nationality, or even their political convictions, is created in the image of God. This divine imprint confers inherent worth and dignity upon every individual. To believe that God would exclude someone based on these external or temporal characteristics is to misunderstand the very heart of His character—a heart of unconditional love and universal grace.

When we look at the life and teachings of Jesus, we see a consistent theme of radical inclusion. He consistently reached out to those on the margins of society, transcended social barriers, and challenged the prejudices of His time. His message was revolutionary then, and it remains revolutionary today: God's love and salvation are for everyone. There are no prerequisites based on our earthly identities, only an invitation to believe and belong.

The Bible makes this abundantly clear, painting a picture of a diverse and unified family of believers.

ln Christ, the divisions that separate people on earth—whether ethnic, social, or gender-based—are transcended. Our identity in Christ unifies us, making us one in Him.

Galatians 3:28-29 NLT There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. And now that you belong to Christ, you are the true children of Abraham. You are his heirs, and God’s promise to Abraham belongs to you.

Christ breaks down every conceivable barrier, declaring that our common bond in Him is far greater than any differences.

Colossians 3:11 NLT In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us.

The prophetic vision of heaven shows God's ultimate plan: a glorious multitude from every corner of the earth, united in worship. It’s a powerful picture of inclusion, demonstrating that God's Kingdom is for everyone.

Revelation 7:9-10 NLT After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a great roar, “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!”

The Bible absolutely declares that salvation is available to all who call upon the Lord, with no distinction or preference based on background. God's blessings are rich and available to all who seek Him.

Romans 10:12-13 NLT Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (emphasis mine)

God’s acceptance is not limited by nationality or any other human-made category. His favor extends to all who are devout and obedient.

Acts of the Apostles 10:34-35 NLT] Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. [35] In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.

The Bible gives a powerful testament to God’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity. It challenges us to dismantle our own prejudices and biases, to see others through the eyes of Christ, and to embrace the rich diversity that reflects His glory. In God's Kingdom, the only prerequisite is a heart open to Him, not a specific race, color, nationality, or political badge. Let us strive to reflect this divine truth in our own lives, building bridges where walls once stood, and welcoming all into the boundless love of God.

Welcoming the Stranger: A Christian Perspective on Immigration in the United States

8/29/2025

Immigration in the United States is a deeply complex and often contentious issue, sparking passionate debate across the political spectrum. For Christians seeking to understand this issue, our ultimate guide must be the Bible. This post will explore various perspectives on immigration, from liberal and conservative viewpoints to the realities faced by documented and undocumented immigrants, all while seeking to discern a Christ-centered response grounded in scripture.

The Spectrum of Perspectives

Liberals often emphasize the humanitarian aspects of immigration, advocating for more open borders and pathways to citizenship. Their arguments frequently highlight the economic contributions of immigrants, the need to offer refuge to those fleeing persecution, and the inherent dignity of every human being.

Conservatives, on the other hand, often prioritize national security, the rule of law, and concerns about the economic impact of immigration on native-born citizens. They may advocate for stricter border controls, increased enforcement of immigration laws, and a focus on legal immigration processes.

Both documented and undocumented immigrants face unique challenges. Documented immigrants navigate complex legal systems, often experiencing lengthy waiting times and significant financial burdens. Undocumented immigrants face the constant threat of deportation, limited access to basic services, and vulnerability to exploitation.

What Does the Bible Say?

Scripture offers a rich tapestry of teachings relevant to the topic of immigration. Several key themes emerge:

The Image of God: Genesis 1:27 reminds us that all humans are created in God's image, possessing inherent worth and dignity, regardless of their nationality or legal status. This foundational truth calls us to see the humanity in every immigrant.

Genesis 1:27 NIV So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

Love Your Neighbor: Jesus's command in Matthew 22:37-40 to "love your neighbor as yourself" extends beyond our immediate community. In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus illustrates that our "neighbor" includes even those who are different from us and in need.

Matthew 22:37-40 NIV[37] Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ [38] This is the first and greatest commandment. [39] And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ [40] All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

Care for the Alien: The Old Testament frequently instructs the Israelites to care for the "alien" or "foreigner" living among them.

Leviticus 19:33-34 NIV[33] “ ‘When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them. [34] The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.

The historical context of the Israelites as former foreigners in Egypt underscores the importance of empathy and compassion.

Justice and Mercy: Micah 6:8 calls us to "do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God."

Micah 6:8 NIV [8] He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

This principle compels us to consider the justice of our immigration policies and to extend mercy to those in vulnerable situations.

Obedience to Authority: Romans 13:1-7 instructs Christians to submit to governing authorities, as they are established by God.

Romans 13:1-7 NIV [1] Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. [2] Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. [3] For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. [4] For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. [5] Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience. [6] This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. [7] Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

This calls us to respect and uphold just laws. However, this principle must be balanced with the higher calling to love and care for our neighbor and to advocate for just laws.

A Christ-Centered Response

Navigating these diverse perspectives and biblical principles requires discernment and a commitment to Christ-like love. A Christian response to immigration should include:

Prayer and Discernment: Seeking God's wisdom and guidance in understanding this complex issue.
Empathy and Compassion: Recognizing the human stories and struggles behind the statistics.
Advocacy for Just Laws: Engaging in respectful dialogue and advocating for immigration policies that reflect biblical values of justice, mercy, and the dignity of all persons.
Practical Help: Supporting organizations that help immigrants, both documented and undocumented.
Welcoming the Stranger: Creating communities that extend hospitality and love to those who have come from other lands.

Immigration is not simply a political or economic issue; it is a human issue that calls for a distinctly Christian response rooted in love, justice, and the teachings of Scripture. As we grapple with this complex challenge, may we always strive to reflect the heart of Christ toward all people.

Understanding the Doctrine of Man: Created in God's Image

8/29/2025

A doctrine is a set of beliefs or teachings held and taught by a religious or philosophical group. The doctrine of man, or theological anthropology, is the study of what the Bible reveals about human beings—our creation, nature, and purpose. This doctrine is foundational because it helps us understand our identity, our brokenness, and our need for a Savior.

Created in the Image of God

The Bible teaches that human beings are unique among all creation because we are made in the image of God.

Genesis 1:27 NIV So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

This does not mean we look like God physically, but rather that we reflect His character in keyways. The imago Dei (image of God) includes our capacity for rationality, creativity, morality, and relational. We are uniquely designed to have a relationship with our Creator and to represent Him on Earth. This truth gives every human life immense value and dignity.

The Fall and the Reality of Sin

While humanity was created perfectly, the Bible describes a turning point known as the Fall, when the first humans, Adam and Eve, rebelled against God. Their disobedience introduced sin and a broken nature into humanity.

Romans 5:12 NIV Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned--

This means that every person is born with a sin nature, a natural inclination to rebel against God. This brokenness affects every part of us—our minds, emotions, and will.

The Spiritual and Physical Nature of Man

The doctrine of man also teaches that we are a complex combination of physical and spiritual components. We are not just a body or just a soul, but a unity of both.

Genesis 2:7 NIV Then the Lord God formed a man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.

This illustrates that our physical life is animated by a spiritual essence given by God. When we are saved through Christ, our spirit is made new, but we continue to live in a physical body that struggles with the effects of sin.

The Importance of This Doctrine

Understanding the doctrine of man helps us to see ourselves and others from God's perspective. It reveals our profound dignity as image-bearers of God and our deep need for salvation from sin. We recognize that our purpose is not found in our own efforts but in turning back to our Creator. This foundational truth directs us to the cross, where Jesus Christ provides the only way to reconcile our fallen state with a holy God.

Does God Require All Christians to Think Alike?

8/17/2025

In the Christian faith, we often hear the call for unity. The Apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 4 to "make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" resonate deeply. But what does this unity truly mean? Does it require that all believers hold the same opinions on every matter, from politics and social issues to worship styles and biblical interpretation? Is a difference of opinion a sign of a broken fellowship? A careful look at scripture reveals that God's plan for His Church is not one of rigid, intellectual conformity, but of beautiful, Spirit-led unity in the midst of diversity.
The answer to whether God requires us to think the same is a clear and resounding "no." The unity we are called to pursue is not a uniformity of thought, but a unity of heart, centered on the foundational truths of the Gospel.

Core Convictions vs. Personal Conscience

The Bible makes a critical distinction between the essentials of the faith and matters of personal conviction. The core of our belief is non-negotiable.

There is only one God. That one God exists in three persons, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus Christ is Lord, He died for our sins, was resurrected, and is the only way to salvation. This is the bedrock. On these truths, we must be united.

However, on a vast range of other issues, scripture allows for a diversity of thought. In Romans 14, Paul addresses disagreements among believers over diet and the observance of certain days. He offers a powerful principle that can be applied to many modern-day debates.

Romans 14:5 (NIV): "One person considers one day more sacred than another; another considers every day alike. Each of them should be fully convinced in their own mind."

Paul's instruction is not to force a single opinion, but to respect the conscientious convictions of others. He warns against judging one another on these matters, reminding us that we are all accountable to the Lord alone. The goal is not to win an argument, but to build up one another in love.

The Body of Christ is Diverse and Interdependent

The metaphor of the Church as the Body of Christ is perhaps the clearest picture of God’s plan for diversity.

1 Corinthians 12:12-20 NIV [12] Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. [13] For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. [14] Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many. [15] Now if the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. [16] And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. [17] If the whole body were an eye, where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? [18] But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. [19] If they were all one part, where would the body be? [20] As it is, there are many parts, but one body.

A body needs hands, feet, eyes, and ears. Each part is different, with a unique function, and none can say to the other, "I don't need you." In the same way, the Church is made up of people with different backgrounds, personalities, spiritual gifts, and, yes, different perspectives. These differences are not a bug in the system; they are a feature. God intentionally creates a diverse body so that we can support, challenge, and grow with one another, all working together for a common purpose.

Seeking Unity, Not Unanimity

True unity is not the absence of disagreement. It's the ability to love and serve one another even when we disagree. It's about being united in our mission to love God and love others, even if we have different ideas on the best way to accomplish that mission. When we align our priorities with God's will, as we've discussed before, we find that our common purpose in Christ is far greater than any of our differences.

So, let us embrace the beautiful diversity God has woven into His Church. Let’s hold fast to the foundational truths of the gospel, and in all other things, extend grace, humility, and the freedom to think differently. The unity Christ prayed for is not a unity of identical minds, but a unity of reconciled hearts, beating as one for His glory.

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