What if racial issues is a gospel issue? How should the church respond if these issues are connected, not separate?
Talking Points:
- Imago Dei – being created in the image of God – is the basis for human dignity and worth. Racism is an affront to God himself. Genesis 1:27, James 3:9
- From creation to revelation, the story of the Bible is a story of reconciliation: first from God to man, and second from man to man. God is interested in redeeming all people groups. Joel 2:28, Revelation 7:9
- The Old Testament temple sent a message to the people that there was a “dividing wall of hostility”. At the cross, the curtain of the temple was torn and the barrier was removed once for all.
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share the interactions you’ve had with Christians related to racial issues. What has disappointed you? What has encouraged you?
- How do you think the average non-believer today perceives the Christian view on race? Where does this perception come from?
- How do the covenants in the Bible tell the story of reconciliation? Give an example.
- Read Genesis 1:27. Why do you think some Christians feel like racism isn’t a gospel or church issue? How should this verse shape the conversation regarding racial issues?
- Read Colossians 1:20-22. Define reconciliation in your own words. How did Jesus come as the great reconciler? How do Christians need to be more reconcilers in a multi-ethnic society?
- Is there a step you need to take based on today’s topic?
