thbslawson
Puritan Board Freshman
I don't know what else to say...I simply cannot convince anyone that racism still exists and is alive and in the church.
Shawn,
I'm convinced! I'm just joining the conversation today. Not only am I convinced, but I've seen it first-hand many many times in the church, even from some ordained PCA elders. I'm sickened by it, offended, and have even confronted people about it. I've been in churches where it's okay to criticize filling up your car with gas on the Lord's Day, but one dare not talk of the sin of racism. So I get it. I see it, and I'm on board with you.
But there is hope. We are part of a multi-racial congregation in Jackson, MS, about 30% Black, 68% White and 2% other. Our pastor, Mike Campbell (an African American) will be the first to tell you that the reconciliation that we see coming about at the church is because of the gospel. The church does explicitly mention "racial reconciliation" in it's purpose and vision, but this takes place through the preaching of the gospel.
I'm still learning and repenting of hatefulness in my past. I'm convinced that racism and prejudice are like any sins; if we're honest, we never conquer them perfectly, but we confess, repent and do fight. And it is my hope and prayer that my children will never grow up having to "overcome" and "undo" so much of sinful racist tendencies that I grew up with.
I definitely think this is an issue that needs to be addressed by the church and have the searing light of the gospel shined upon it. I'm thankful that some strides are being made, especially in the Deep South.