A Call to Confront Racism
As I reflect on my journey as a pastor, I am reminded of the profound impact that John Piper’s book on race and the gospel has had on me. When I first read the manuscript, I was struck by the clarity and conviction with which John addressed this critical issue. His words were both personally challenging and theologically insightful, offering a powerful antidote to the indifference that often plagues conservative evangelicals when it comes to racism.
A Troubling Legacy
I vividly recall my early days as a pastor in a small Southern town in the 1970s. The courts had recently ordered the desegregation of the local public swimming pool, but instead of complying, the town chose to shut it down altogether. The white community responded by opening a private pool and club, effectively excluding racial minorities. As a young pastor, I was often invited to swim at this private pool, unaware of the painful symbolism it represented.
The Sin of Indifference
Over the years, I have witnessed a disturbing trend among conservative evangelicals – a growing indifference to the sin of racism. This apathy is rooted in a combination of factors, including the stubbornness of the human heart and cultural pressures. Many have come to associate discussions of racism with liberal or secular ideologies, leading them to dismiss the issue altogether.
A Biblical Antidote
John Piper’s book is a much-needed corrective to this misguided thinking. By guiding us through the biblical texts that speak directly to the subject of race, John provides a clear and compelling framework for understanding the gospel’s implications for racial reconciliation. He demonstrates how central doctrines such as substitutionary atonement, conversion, and justification by faith transform our attitudes toward our own culture and those of others.
Connecting the Dots
One of the most striking aspects of John’s book is its ability to connect the dots between theology and practice. He shows how a deeper understanding of the gospel can lead to profound insights into the nature of racism and our complicity in it. I recall an elder in my church who, after growing in his understanding of the gospel, came to realize that he had been a racist his entire life. John’s book offers a similar opportunity for readers to confront their own biases and assumptions.
A Call to Action
Let John Piper’s book be a catalyst for your own journey of discovery and growth. Allow him to guide you through the complexities of racial sin and the transformative power of the gospel. Together, we can work towards a more just and equitable society, one that reflects the beauty and diversity of God’s creation.
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