Let’s start with an undeniable fact: we live in tumultuous times. Every day seems to bring new debates, controversies, and reasons for division. From political tensions to theological confusion, the challenges of our world often feel overwhelming. But as believers, we are called to approach these challenges with clarity, biblical truth, and unwavering trust in God.
A Reflection on MLK Day and Current Sermon Trends
As we celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day, it became clear that many sermons in predominantly Black churches shifted from theology to political commentary. For instance, I listened to Pastor Freddy Haynes deliver a sermon that was more about politics, personal grievances, and cultural issues than the Word of God. Quotes from rappers like Ludacris and Kendrick Lamar were interwoven with scripture, and the result was a message focused more on human achievement and grievances than divine truth.
Let me be clear: King’s contributions to civil rights were monumental. However, we must critically assess the theological underpinnings of his work. MLK, by his own writings, denied core Christian doctrines like the deity of Christ and the resurrection. This raises an important question: can we truly celebrate someone’s legacy in the church without acknowledging their theological errors? Theology matters—what we believe about God shapes how we live and what we preach.
The Danger of Political Idolatry
Another recurring theme in these sermons was the vilification of political figures, particularly Donald Trump. Sermons depicted him as a modern-day Nebuchadnezzar, demanding worship and threatening freedom. he pulpit is for proclaiming Christ, not for simply airing political grievances.
Politics affects our lives, but the gospel transcends political parties and administrations. When we reduce our faith to political commentary, we risk losing sight of our mission: making disciples and proclaiming the kingdom of God. Yes, we should care about justice, but our solutions must be rooted in scripture, not in partisan ideologies.
Staying Woke or Staying Biblical?
In the cultural context, the term "woke" has become a divisive buzzword. Some use it to champion social justice and equity, while others see it as a symbol of moral relativism and overreach. The issue is not about being aware of injustice but about the framework through which we address it. Do we lean on worldly philosophies, or do we turn to the Word of God?
True justice flows from the gospel. If we want to address systemic issues like poverty, inequality, or crime, we must first address the human heart. Sin is the root cause of injustice, and only the gospel provides the remedy. Programs like DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) often focus on outcomes rather than opportunities. Instead, we should emphasize equality under God, where every individual is valued, not because of quotas but because they are made in His image.
Building Stronger Families and Communities
At the heart of societal transformation is the family. The breakdown of the family structure has led to many of the issues we see today. Fathers need to raise their children. Parents need to take responsibility for their kids' education—spiritually and academically. Homeschooling, teaching biblical principles, and emphasizing the value of hard work and integrity can create generational change.
In my own home, we prioritize catechizing our son with simple yet profound truths about God. Questions like "Who made you?" and "Why did God make you?" lay the foundation for a lifetime of faith and wisdom. As parents, it’s our responsibility to ensure that our children grow up grounded in truth and equipped for the challenges of life.
The Gospel First, Always
At All Things Theology, we believe that the gospel must remain central. It’s the power of God for salvation and the foundation for everything we do. Whether discussing politics, social issues, or personal struggles, our message must always point people back to Christ. Without Him, we can do nothing.
So, let’s rise to the challenge of our generation. Let’s build families that honor God, churches that preach His Word, and communities that reflect His love. And above all, let’s remember that our hope is not in any political leader or cultural movement but in the risen Savior who reigns forever.
To learn more about this subject watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFzUI4QXrV4
Grace and peace,
Kdub