Confronting Systemic Racism: The Church's Role in Justice
Summary
In our conversation tonight, we delved into the intersection of race and the church, exploring how systemic racism has been confronted and dismantled within religious communities. Joined by Dr. Tony Evans and Pastor John Jenkins, we discussed their journeys into ministry and the unique challenges they faced as African-American leaders in predominantly white evangelical spaces. Dr. Evans shared his initial call to ministry and how his path shifted from evangelism to pastoring, leading to the establishment of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship. Pastor Jenkins echoed a similar journey, emphasizing his early passion for sharing the gospel with peers and his experiences of racial barriers in both government and church settings.
We explored the current moment in history, where young people of all races are demanding change, driven by technology and a collective awareness of injustice. Dr. Evans recounted the systemic racism he faced in the 1980s when trying to expand his radio ministry, highlighting how theological support was often used to justify racial discrimination. Pastor Jenkins shared personal stories of being overlooked and marginalized, underscoring the painful reality of racism within the church.
The conversation also addressed the absence and marginalization of the white church in racial justice issues. Dr. Evans and Pastor Jenkins emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of theology that includes both justice and righteousness. They challenged the notion that social justice is separate from the gospel, arguing that the Bible is replete with verses addressing social issues.
We also tackled the controversial topic of the phrase "Black Lives Matter," distinguishing between the emphasis on racial injustice and the broader entity with its own platform. Both pastors encouraged a focus on the specific injustices faced by Black communities while acknowledging the broader truth that all lives matter.
Finally, we discussed the role of the church in societal change, urging both Black and white Christians to engage in the political process and work together to dismantle systemic racism. Dr. Evans and Pastor Jenkins called for visible Christianity, where churches actively engage in community transformation through partnerships and good works.
Key Takeaways:
- The intersection of race and the church reveals systemic barriers that have historically marginalized Black voices. Dr. Evans and Pastor Jenkins shared personal experiences of racism within religious spaces, highlighting the need for a comprehensive theological understanding that includes justice and righteousness. [06:18]
- Young people today are driving change, leveraging technology to demand justice and equality. This grassroots movement is characterized by diverse participation, transcending racial and generational boundaries, and challenging the status quo. [03:41]
- The absence of the white church in racial justice issues has been a significant barrier to progress. Dr. Evans emphasized the need for white Christians to move beyond guilt and engage in anti-racist actions driven by love and moral obligation. [23:40]
- The phrase "Black Lives Matter" highlights specific injustices faced by Black communities, akin to focusing on the unborn in anti-abortion movements. Distinguishing between the emphasis and the entity is crucial to understanding its biblical alignment. [21:41]
- Churches are called to be visible in their communities, engaging in good works that address systemic issues. By partnering with local institutions and adopting a holistic approach, churches can lead societal transformation and embody the hands and feet of Jesus. [30:10]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:08] - Introduction of Guests
- [00:44] - Dr. Evans' Path to Ministry
- [01:40] - Pastor Jenkins' Ministry Journey
- [02:43] - Current Moment in History
- [03:55] - Role of Technology in Change
- [04:46] - Dr. Evans' Radio Ministry Challenges
- [06:18] - Systemic Racism in Evangelical Circles
- [07:12] - Pastor Jenkins' Experiences with Racism
- [09:02] - Marginalization by the White Church
- [10:24] - Theological Support for Racism
- [12:11] - Justice and Righteousness in Scripture
- [14:45] - Black Lives Matter Discussion
- [19:19] - Biblical Perspective on Social Justice
- [22:44] - Message to White Christians
- [25:54] - Message to Black Christians
- [28:41] - Encouragement for Leaders
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Psalm 89:14 - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you."
2. Galatians 2:20 - "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
3. Exodus 21:16 - "Anyone who kidnaps someone is to be put to death, whether the victim has been sold or is still in the kidnapper’s possession."
Observation Questions:
1. What were some of the systemic barriers Dr. Tony Evans faced when trying to expand his radio ministry in the 1980s? [05:12]
2. How did Pastor John Jenkins describe the role of young people and technology in driving change today? [03:41]
3. What examples did Dr. Evans give to illustrate the theological support for racism in the past? [10:24]
4. How did Pastor Jenkins describe his personal experiences with racism in both government and church settings? [07:12]
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Psalm 89:14 relate to the need for a comprehensive understanding of theology that includes both justice and righteousness, as discussed by Dr. Evans and Pastor Jenkins? [12:24]
2. In what ways does Galatians 2:20 challenge the notion that social justice is separate from the gospel, as mentioned in the sermon? [17:28]
3. How does the story of Dr. Evans' challenges in the 1980s reflect the broader issue of systemic racism within religious communities? [05:12]
4. What does the discussion about the phrase "Black Lives Matter" reveal about the importance of distinguishing between emphasis and entity in understanding its biblical alignment? [21:41]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or experienced racial injustice within a church setting. How did you respond, and what might you do differently now? [07:12]
2. How can you, as an individual, contribute to dismantling systemic racism within your community or church? What specific actions can you take this week? [30:10]
3. Dr. Evans emphasized the need for white Christians to move beyond guilt and engage in anti-racist actions driven by love. How can you apply this principle in your interactions with others? [23:40]
4. Pastor Jenkins mentioned the importance of political engagement for societal change. Are there local initiatives or political actions you can support to promote justice and equality? [26:37]
5. How can your church become more visible in addressing systemic issues in your community? What partnerships or initiatives could you propose or support? [30:10]
6. Reflect on the role of technology in driving change. How can you leverage social media or other platforms to raise awareness and advocate for racial justice? [03:41]
7. Consider the biblical perspective on social justice discussed in the sermon. How can you incorporate this understanding into your daily life and conversations with others? [17:28]
Devotional
Day 1: Confronting Systemic Barriers in the Church
The intersection of race and the church reveals systemic barriers that have historically marginalized Black voices. These barriers are not just historical artifacts but present realities that continue to affect the lives of many within religious communities. The experiences of African-American leaders in predominantly white evangelical spaces highlight the need for a comprehensive theological understanding that includes justice and righteousness. This understanding challenges the status quo and calls for an active dismantling of these barriers to create a more inclusive and equitable church environment. [06:18]
"For I the Lord love justice; I hate robbery and wrong; I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them." (Isaiah 61:8, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a time when you witnessed or experienced marginalization within a church setting. How can you actively work towards creating a more inclusive environment in your own community?
Day 2: The Role of Young People in Driving Change
Young people today are driving change, leveraging technology to demand justice and equality. This grassroots movement is characterized by diverse participation, transcending racial and generational boundaries, and challenging the status quo. The energy and passion of young people are vital in pushing for systemic change, and their use of technology amplifies their voices and connects them with a global audience. This moment in history is a call to action for all generations to support and engage with these efforts for justice. [03:41]
"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." (1 Timothy 4:12, ESV)
Reflection: How can you support the young people in your community who are advocating for justice and equality? What practical steps can you take to amplify their voices?
Day 3: The Call for White Christians to Engage in Racial Justice
The absence of the white church in racial justice issues has been a significant barrier to progress. Moving beyond guilt, white Christians are called to engage in anti-racist actions driven by love and moral obligation. This engagement requires a willingness to listen, learn, and act in solidarity with marginalized communities. It is a call to embody the teachings of Christ by actively participating in the work of justice and reconciliation. [23:40]
"Thus says the Lord of hosts, Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another, do not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the sojourner, or the poor, and let none of you devise evil against another in your heart." (Zechariah 7:9-10, ESV)
Reflection: What is one specific action you can take this week to engage in anti-racist work within your community? How can you ensure that this action is driven by love and a commitment to justice?
Day 4: Understanding the Emphasis of "Black Lives Matter"
The phrase "Black Lives Matter" highlights specific injustices faced by Black communities, akin to focusing on the unborn in anti-abortion movements. Distinguishing between the emphasis on racial injustice and the broader entity with its own platform is crucial to understanding its biblical alignment. This understanding allows for a more nuanced engagement with the movement, focusing on the specific injustices and advocating for change within a biblical framework. [21:41]
"Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy." (Proverbs 31:8-9, ESV)
Reflection: How can you engage with the "Black Lives Matter" movement in a way that aligns with your faith and focuses on addressing specific injustices?
Day 5: The Church's Role in Societal Transformation
Churches are called to be visible in their communities, engaging in good works that address systemic issues. By partnering with local institutions and adopting a holistic approach, churches can lead societal transformation and embody the hands and feet of Jesus. This call to action requires a commitment to community engagement and a willingness to address the root causes of injustice, working towards a more just and equitable society. [30:10]
"Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the straps of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?" (Isaiah 58:6-7, ESV)
Reflection: What is one way your church can partner with local organizations to address systemic issues in your community? How can you personally contribute to this effort?
Quotes
I would want them to know racism is real. I would define it for them structures that promote racial injustice are also real. I would define that for them, but then I would explain to them that does not mean every white person is a racist, and I would distinguish being part of a structure where you may not be racist but you haven't been anti-racist to the structure. [00:23:14]
I think that, you know, the conditions are, you know, so much as the conditions are right, you know, they're people at home, or, you know, everybody's not at work, uh, and the young people, I think what has made the difference here is the grassroots of young people who have not and will not follow in the footsteps of their parents with racial racist ideas. [00:03:08]
Yes, it was the mid 80s when we were trying to expand radio and, um, many of the stations let us know that a black speaker would be too offensive to their white listeners. Uh, there was a system you talk about systemic racism, there was a system in the evangelical community that blocked black pontificators of the word of God. [00:05:10]
The absence of the white church has been one of the most, um, hurtful parts of injustice that we've seen over the years. Um, and not even the absence but there's been almost a marginalization uh of the experience of black people, thinking that it's, you know, fabricated or exaggerated. [00:08:43]
Black lives matter was birthed out of the phrase was birthed out of the fact that black men were being unjustly killed by whites and white police officers in specific. It was it was a serious problem that's how it got birthed, and I think that, um, many people have resisted this phrase because so many other a couple of other movements have attached themselves to the phrase. [00:19:25]
I would tell them and tell us never to use the reality of as of racism as an excuse for irresponsibility. When they when a when a football team goes on the field, there's a defense which has a system to stop the offense from scoring touchdowns. It's a system and that system is not going to change they're going to try to keep the offense from scoring and moving forward and getting first downs. [00:27:26]
I think it boils down to our involvement in society blacks have to not be discouraged frustrated, we can't quit we can't uh resort to violence to be able to bring a change we bring change by voting by running for office, our church had about 15 people run for political office, nine of them won that's how we change it. [00:26:34]
I would want them to know racism is real. I would define it for them structures that promote racial injustice are also real. I would define that for them, but then I would explain to them that does not mean every white person is a racist, and I would distinguish being part of a structure where you may not be racist but you haven't been anti-racist to the structure. [00:23:14]
I would want them to know racism is real. I would define it for them structures that promote racial injustice are also real. I would define that for them, but then I would explain to them that does not mean every white person is a racist, and I would distinguish being part of a structure where you may not be racist but you haven't been anti-racist to the structure. [00:23:14]
I would want them to know racism is real. I would define it for them structures that promote racial injustice are also real. I would define that for them, but then I would explain to them that does not mean every white person is a racist, and I would distinguish being part of a structure where you may not be racist but you haven't been anti-racist to the structure. [00:23:14]
I would want them to know racism is real. I would define it for them structures that promote racial injustice are also real. I would define that for them, but then I would explain to them that does not mean every white person is a racist, and I would distinguish being part of a structure where you may not be racist but you haven't been anti-racist to the structure. [00:23:14]
I would want them to know racism is real. I would define it for them structures that promote racial injustice are also real. I would define that for them, but then I would explain to them that does not mean every white person is a racist, and I would distinguish being part of a structure where you may not be racist but you haven't been anti-racist to the structure. [00:23:14]
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