Here is a brief insight, detailing the life of Araminta Harriet Ross, who later changed her name to Harriet around the time of her marriage. She was an American abolitionist and political activist, also known as the ‘Moses of her people.’
Short Biography
Born into slavery in the 1820’s in Maryland.
She escaped to freedom in 1849.
Tubman stole into the woods and, with the help of some members of the Underground Railroad, walked the 90 miles to Philadelphia where slavery was illegal, to freedom.
Tubman devoted her life to racial equality and fought for women’s rights.
Became a famous conductor of the Underground Railroad.
Tubman was the first woman to lead an armed expedition during the Civil War.
She guided the Combahee River Raid, which liberated more than 700 slave in South Carolina. Dorchester County, Maryland Auburn, New York.
In 1844, Harriet married a free Black man named John Tubman – after separation, In 1869, Tubman married a Civil War veteran named Nelson Davis.
In 1874 Davis and Tubman adopted a baby girl named Gertie.
Tubman quickly became an armed scout and spy for the Union Army.
Tubman died of pneumonia on March 10, 1913, surrounded by friends and family, at around the age of 93.
She was buried with military honors at Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn.
A 1978 movie, A Woman Called Moses, commemorated her life and career, and the 2019 film Harriet chronicled Tubman’s service as a conductor for the Underground Railroad.
Tubman and Faith
I always tole God, I’m gwine [going] to hole stiddy on you ‘an You’ve got to see me through
Harriet Tubman
Harriet Tubman not only was a woman of faith but a woman of absolute confidence in the voice of God. Abolitionist Thomas Garrett said of her, “I never met any person of any colour who had more confidence in the voice of God.” She was an honourable woman, who refused to go anywhere without first hearing the voice of God. Actively, she showed the fruits of being a follower of Christ, acting selflessly to rescue her fellow people from captivity, notorious for not losing a single person. Regardless of obstacles, she held on to her faith which helped her to become the fearless and brave woman she is known to be.
Tubman grew up during the second Great Awakening, a period of revival in the Christian Church in the United States, where membership flourished. In addition, what solidified her faith was when she came upon a horrific accident that led her to suffer from temporal lobe epilepsy. Upon this accident, she believed that her trances and visions were direct revelations from God and evidence of His involvement in her life. This tragic accident turned out for good as it led to the solidification of her worldview in Christ.
Humility is not antonymous with bravery
Harriet was a perfect display of both humility and bravery. She was humble enough to be selfless, to not neglect her people after she escaped, but to risk her life every single time to save over 700 slaves in North Carolina. Additionally, she was humble enough to not trust alone in her power, but the power of the Almighty and the voice of the Lord. With trusting came a lack of fear and a surplus in bravery.
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:7
There are many things we can learn from Harriet, ranging from not allowing societies standards to diminish or make you shy away from your purpose, or not allowing others to shy you away from the voice of the Lord. But the takeaway I want us to ponder on is trusting in the Lord. When we trust in the Lord, we are empowered. Fear is stripped away because we know that the Author and Founder of the universe is right behind us. Not just for our selfish needs, but for His need, for His glory, to help and save others who are in need of it. Harriet’s work may not have only have saved others physically but spiritually, as her fruits may have acted as evangelism to others. The amalgamation of her spiritual life and her physical work was what resulted in the nickname, ‘Moses of her people.’
There are very few topics that are discussed in today’s cultural climate that are novel. Whilst the context of these topics such as abortion, spirituality and sexual ethics may differ, the content of such discussions remains largely the same. These topics often raise questions that form new perspectives that may change how a person views the world. For Christians, these questions can strengthen or weaken their faith; especially if the answers to their questions are unanswered or unsatisfactory.
One topic has caused division and identity crises for thousands of years, particularly amongst black Christians. ‘Am I a Christian first or a black person first?’ For some, the Christian faith pits your religion against your race. For others, the Christian faith doesn’t speak to racial issues at all. This topic has led many to leave the faith because they believe that Christianity isn’t for black people. But is this true? Do the scriptures provide answers to the questions that black people have?
The Curse of Ham
Christianity has often been accused of being the “white man’s religion”. These critics point to the events in history that have caused the denigration and the enslavement of black people, particularly at the hands of white “Christians”. In addition to these events, critics point to passages in Scripture that appear to illustrate that black people are cursed. In Genesis 9, after God created a covenant with Noah, he began to work the ground and drank of the wine he produced (Genesis 9:20). He became drunk and fell asleep naked (Genesis 9:21). Ham saw his father’s nakedness and seemingly sought to include his brothers in dishonouring their father (Genesis 9:22). Shem and Japheth instead cover their father’s nakedness (Genesis 9:24). Upon waking from his slumber, Noah realises what Ham has done and curses Ham’s son, Canaan (Genesis 9:25). There are different interpretations as to why Canaan was cursed and not Ham but none support the subjugation of black people.
The curse of Ham states that when Ham sinned, God turned his descendant’s skin black and subjected them to slavery. A careful reading of Genesis 9 is enough to distinguish the lie that the Curse of Ham is a curse upon black people. Here are a few reasons:
1) Ham wasn’t cursed, Canaan was cursed. This is very important to note. A careful reading of Scripture would be able to refute the false claim that Ham was cursed.
2) Being Black is not a curse. Ham had 4 children: Cush, Egypt, Put and Canaan. Cush, Egypt and Put are in what is known today as Africa. Canaan was in the Southwest of Asia. Cush was in what is known as Sudan today and is widely considered as the region in which black people derive.
3) The curse has already been fulfilled. In Genesis 12, God promises Abram the land of Canaan. In the book of Joshua, nearly 500 years later, we see the promise fulfilled. Israel conquered Canaan and entered the land.
4) Don’t believe myths. The curse of Ham finds its origin between the 3rd and 5th centuries and became popularised during the Transatlantic Slave Trade. By holding the view that black people are cursed because of God is to be influenced by white supremacist thought. To interpret the reading of the text in this way is wrong and should be rejected.
Black People are Image Bearers
There is nothing more important than interpreting the Bible rightly. How we read the Bible will determine how we see God and others. Poor interpretation is what led scholars to develop lies that influenced the subjugation and enslavement of millions of black people. As humans we are limited in what we can know; however, we have a duty of getting as close as we can when interpreting what the Scriptures mean. In Paul’s letter to Timothy, Paul exhorts the young pastor to watch his doctrine and his life (1 Timothy 4:16). If we want to be faithful Christians, then whatever we think, feel, or do must be aligned to what the Scriptures teach. The Scriptures do not teach that black people are cursed or are mistakes or that they are subordinate to any other race. Instead, the Scriptures affirm that black people are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:28, 9:6), to show forth the glory of God (Psalm 8:5, 1 Peter 2:9) and rest in the presence of God (1 John 4:13).
Black people are no less valuable than any other ethnic group. To state such a thing is to call God a liar. God made black people purposefully and called them good, along with the rest of creation (Genesis 1). The issue that mankind faces is not the varying levels of melanin, but instead that we have sinned against God (Romans 3:23). But in Christ, we have a Redeemer who lived, died and rose again to save the whole world (John 3:16). Now anyone, no matter their ethnicity, who trusts in Christ as their life, will be saved and will be united to God forever (Titus 3:4-7). Then on that day, we will see the fulfilment of the promise that every nation, tongue, and tribe will be united in glory forever (Revelation 5:9-10).
Black Christians, there are some who want you to pit your Christianity against your ethnicity. You don’t have to, it’s a false choice. God didn’t accidentally make you black. In fact, God says your blackness declares His glory. So, the next time someone asks you “Are you a Christian first or Black first?”, let your response be yes. Your blackness is not in competition with Jesus. Instead, God plans to use your blackness along with all other ethnicities as the canvas to declare His Lordship over all.
We all know that representation matters and in celebrating Black History Month- the editorial team has compiled a list of must-read books by Black Christian authors. We hope that these books inform and encourage your faith and spur you further in your pursuit of God.
Black and Reformed by Anthony J Carter
Though from an African American centric view, this book is helpful for the black Christian who is either transitioning from or in white reformed circles. Antony J Carter writes this book with an understanding that the black individual understanding of reformed theology may have been marred by its history. Big figures within reformed circles such as George Whitfield, were supporters and affirmers of grievous sins carried out against black people such as slavery; hence why black reformed individuals may struggle with their with where their loyalties lie. In this book, Carter horns home to the struggling Christian that reformed theology is not encapsulated nor is it defined by what these men did or affirmed by Eurocentricity. He also teaches that there have been prominent black people within church history such as Saint Augustine. Reformed theology does not exist to ostracize black individuals or invalidate their experiences, but it is a display of God of how God uses egregious events for His glory and for our good.
A Young Woman’s Guide to Seeking God by Ayo Awotona
In this honest book, Awotona shares how she has navigated the trials in her faith and dealt with her past to walk into the new life. She speaks openly about her life and shares much-needed encouragement to young women on how to seek God in their daily lives. From waking up at 4 am to setting time in her schedule to meet with God, Awotona clearly explains the practical decisions she has intentionally made to deepen her relationship with God. She further expresses how these decisions have impacted her life in navigating the trials that she has faced. This book is a very encouraging addition to the Christian’s journey and will truly inspire you to be more intentional about seeking God.
Relational Intelligence: The People Skills You Need for the Life of Purpose You Want by Dharius Daniels
This book teaches the importance of defining relationships in our life. Even Jesus Himself was selective over His inner circle yet that didn’t stop Him from loving people. 4 categories are highlighted: Associates, Friends, Assignments and Advisors. In a world where our relationships are quite dynamic/fluid, this book helps us to understand the importance of seasons. In one season a person can serve you in one capacity but may not be able to play that same role in another season. Daniels teaches flexibility and appreciation in the different roles people in our lives life may play. They will not all serve the same purpose and that is okay. Either way, whether people are friends or not, still be kind and loving but don’t be afraid to set healthy boundaries and manage your expectations.
Whole, Competent and Consecrated by Christian Mutyambizi
Conceived from experiences within University campus fellowship and a desire to equip those who are tasked to lead these fellowships- this book is a much-needed guide for fellowship leaders. University Christian fellowships are a beautiful space for young Christians to gather and share life and their love for the Gospel but their leaders are oft unequipped in dealing with their roles and with the problems they may discover within themselves and their attendees. They find themselves plagued with the burden of care but unable to find helpful resources to help them in their leadership journey. In each chapter, Mutyambizi offers portions of wisdom derived from lessons he has learnt as a leader and practical steps for us to follow in the aim of employing healthy, biblical and Christ-like leadership. However, it must be stressed that this book is applicable to many spheres of leadership, not just University fellowships.
What is a Man? by Ira Jackson Jr
“What is a man?” This age-old question is on the minds of many and in a society and a fallen world that so often misses the mark on answering this question, we find broken boys and misled men. This book aims to tackle the epidemic of lost men with missing identities by dismantling myths and rebuilding with the truth. As Jackson rightly puts it, “Most men have never been fathered, some have been fathered but not trained, some have been trained but not in the correct things.” With God and His word as the architects of each principle in this book, Jackson teaches us with a heart that is filled with a zeal for his fellow brethren to come to a true understanding and living confidence of who they are and what God has called them to do.
A Promises of God Series by Kim Cash Tate
If you are a sucker for Christian fiction or have never indulged in any, then this series is for you. Comprised of 5 books titled: Though I Stumble, If I Believe, If You’re with Me, When I am Tempted and As Long As I Cling- this series is a sure oasis to a parched soul grasping to find threads of hope when all seems to be lost. Each book follows the stories of teenage to middle-aged black individuals who are trying to navigate their way through life’s troubles whilst seeking God with every dilemma faced. From insecurities, death, romance, addiction, infidelity, teen pregnancies, church hurt and abuse- Tate sensitively threads each story with a human realism that is oft not realised in many Christian fictional books. Though some parts are predictable, these books will surely shed God’s promises in a greater light and make you wholeheartedly echo the same words as Christ, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible!”
This is a short introduction into the life of Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey, who later changed his last name to Douglass, after a famous poet. His journey to faith and what we can learn from his life and legacy.
Short biography
Born in the year 1818 into slavery. His mother was of black and Native American ancestry and his father was “almost certainly white”, according to the biographer David Blight.
Douglass was seperated from his mother, Harriet Bailey from a young age.
He first lived with his maternal grandmother, then at the age of 6 moved to Baltimore to live with a couple, Lucretia and Thomas Auld. Then was sent to work for Thomas’ brother, Hugh.
He was taught the alphabet by Sophia, Thomas’ sister-in-law, however Hugh did not want Frederick to learn, as it was forbidden to teach enslaved people to read or write.
Nonetheless, Douglass continued to learn to read and write by trading food for books and lessons from white children. He would later teach other slaves to become literate. He believed knowledge was the path to freedom.
As a result Thomas sent him to Edward Covey who was known for his harsh treatment of slaves.
During his time with Covey, Federick was regualrly whipped and treated poorly. After a while the tensions arose until an altercation between him and Covey. They fought and Douglass won. This he recounts, was a life changing moment.
This battle with Mr. Covey was the turning-point in my career as a slave. It rekindled the few expiring embers of freedom, and revived within me a sense of my own manhood. It recalled the departed self-confidence, and inspired me again with a determination to be free
Frederick Douglass
He escaped in 1838 dressed as a sailor with the help of a woman named Anna.
Moved to New York and married the woman who helped him escape, Anna, a free-born African American woman and they had 5 children.
Douglass was instrumental in the abolishment movement in America and social reform.
In his lifetime, he would write three autobiographies and publish multiple writings.
He advocated for womens rights, equality and human rights until his death in 1895.
Journey to Faith
The first interaction Frederick had with Christianity was listening to Sophia Alud read the book of Job one night. Douglass was interested in the story of the man, who even after going through such trials and tribulations to the point of losing everything, would still say “ Blessed be the name of the Lord”. He wanted to find out more about this man. Douglass joined a Methodist church where he was introduced to a Christ that was more than the pro-slavery gospel he had heard his whole life. After this, he continued to battle with the reality of his sin and the hope found in the Gospel. He fully converted to Christianity and found faith in Christ as “Redeemer, Friend and Saviour”.
Later as he worked in the field, he would see how other slaves were exposed to the false Christianity preached by the slave owners. He was one of the few slaves who actually received the true gospel from the Bible. He watched how the slave owners would treat the slaves poorly then attend church on Sundays.
We have men-stealers for ministers, women-whippers for missionaries, and cradle-plunderers for church members. The man who wields the blood-clotted cowskin during the week fills the pulpit on Sunday, and claims to be a minister of the meek and lowly Jesus. . . . Here we have religion and robbery the allies of each other—devils dressed in angels’ robes, and hell presenting the semblance of paradise.
Frederick Douglass
He condemned the hypocrisy, exclaiming, “Between the Christianity of this land, and the Christianity of Christ, I recognize the widest possible difference.” Frederick was determined to share about the gospel and Christianity of Christ he learnt, not the false one used.
There was a time where he was unsure if God was displeased with the fight he had with Covey but reconciled that the fight against injustice was part of Christian living. A few likened Douglass to Isaiah in his way of preaching the gospel and dispelling the hypocrisy of the slave owners. He was a man on a mission to free the people from the bondage of slavery and the oppressive Christianity of the slaveowners.
Perseverance through suffering
We would agree to say that Frederick Douglass went through tremendous suffering. He was born as a slave with no knowledge or relationship with his mother. His childhood was a mix of being passed between different families and households. Although he was treated well until a point, he was still considered a lower class citizen of his time. He was whipped, beaten and worked to the bone until his escape. Even then, he had to fight for basic human rights and to be seen as an equal amongst his fellow man. During his journey as a Christian, Douglass learnt that the type of oppression he experienced was incompatible with the character and nature of God.
I love the pure, peaceable, and impartial Christianity of Christ
Frederick Douglass
Douglass saw more how the slaveowners were unable to love as Christ loved as they had been too ingrained and hardened with a system of racial oppression through slavery. They could not see their distorted view and how it dishonoured the word of God. Nevertheless, he implored Christians to walk the path of doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
And we should too. God sees us, he hears our cries as he heard the children of Israel and as he heard Frederick Douglass as well as the countless other believers.
Images are important. The images we see, both mentally and physically, allow us as consumers to understand the narrative an author aims to create. With the images an author chooses, the consumer is drawn to connotations. For example, red signifies danger or blue signifies calm. Images also help the consumer relate to the characters that are depicted in a narrative. So, when a consumer reads or sees a character that looks like them, it produces a deeper affiliation with the story being told. This is important because throughout history Christianity has been falsely purported as the “white man’s religion”. As a result, those from other races, particularly black people, feel alienated from the story written by the hands of God. Yet the scriptures are clear, all ethnicities are derived from one man (Acts 17:26). When you look through the scriptures can you see yourself? If not, allow me to help. Here are 5 black heroes in the Bible.
Simon of Cyrene
Firstly, we have Simon of Cyrene.
Cyrene is understood to be located where modern-day Libya is and as a result, many conclude that Simon would be black. Simon plays a small but important role in the biblical narrative.
As Jesus walks to Calvary, Simon is forced into serving the One who would eventually save him. The soldiers press Simon into carrying the cross that Jesus would die on (Matthew 27:32, Mark 15:21, Luke 23:26). In God’s providence, Simon got to play a role in one of the most important moments in human history.
“[The soldiers] seized a man, Simon of Cyrene… and placed on him the cross to carry behind Jesus.”
Luke 23:26
Ethiopian Eunuch
Next, we have the Ethiopian Eunuch.
We meet the Ethiopian Eunuch in Acts 8:26-40. There is a debate as to whether he is the first gentile convert since it appears he was a God-fearer (Acts 8:28). The Holy Spirit directs Philip to meet the Ethiopian who was en-route to Jerusalem to worship.
Eunuchs at the time were barred from the inner courts, which makes what he was reading more significant (Acts 8:32-33). Philip, by the Spirit, converts the Ethiopian Eunuch and it is widely believed that the Ethiopian Church was birthed out of his conversion.
Ebed-Melech
Thirdly, we meet another Ethiopian Eunuch – Ebed-Melech. You can read more of his story in Jeremiah 38. Ebed-Melech is a man of great courage unlike the King of Judah at the time Zedekiah. With the prophet Jeremiah facing injustice, Ebed-Melech defends Jeremiah to the King and formulates a plan to rescue Jeremiah from the cistern (Jeremiah 38-7-13). Where the King failed, Ebed-Melech succeeds.
Simeon of Niger
Fourthly, we have Simeon of Niger.
Niger is Latin for black and thus we have the clearest indication for what Simeon’s complexion was. He was a leader in Antioch. He was a Prophet and a Teacher. He was a man of authority and responsibility such that he was among those leaders who commissioned Paul and Barnabas to begin their missionary travels. The Antioch church was a hub for Gentile outreach in its earliest days (Acts 11:19-26).
Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.”
Acts 13:1-3
Lucius of Cyrene
Finally, we have Lucius of Cyrene. Lucius was also one of the prophets and teachers in the church of Antioch. Not only did God dispel the false belief that salvation was merely for the Jews (Acts 10:28,34), He also placed black men in leadership positions to shepherd His sheep (Acts 13:1).
The devil wants you to believe that God doesn’t care about black people. Don’t believe a liar. Throughout human history, God has used people of all ethnicities to show forth His glory. God is saving people from all nations and tongues (Revelation 7:9). Don’t let a lie prevent you from being a part of the story that God has written.
Thank you for taking the time to follow this series. If you haven’t read my first article yet, please consider reading it before you move on. You can read it here: What Is Deconstruction?
Through this three-part series, I have sought to make sense of the so-called ‘deconstruction movement’. It’s no mean feat, my research has spanned three months and whilst I feel I have a reasonable grasp of some of the movements’ main features, this is no definitive article. My only hope is that this serves as a helpful resource for those considering deconstruction or wanting to engage with people who are.
What is our understanding of deconstruction?
The enduring thorn we have sought to address with the articles is how we understand deconstruction. Everything flows from this. What we consider the movement to be. It’s important we hold our working definition firmly in our minds as we consider whether deconstruction is dangerous.
Since the first lockdown and over the last year and a half, most of us can think of people who have walked away from Christianity entirely. In fact as of 2017, according to The Guardian, More than half the UK population [had] no religion. The study found that 53 per cent of the UK population now had no faith, meaning that for the first time in living memory, most of the country was not religious. I suspect the past two years and multiple lockdowns have not helped that. COVID-19 evoked more questions than it solved for many.
The survey found that 53% of all adults had no religious affiliation, up from 48% in 2015. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian
However, not everyone who doubts their faith ends up rejecting it. In fact, many evangelicals and young people are claiming that an in-depth review of their beliefs has strengthened their faith. It’s a story I’ve heard time and time again from friends, acquaintances and even the odd well-known church leader. Whilst COVID-19 has put stress on some people’s faith, for others, this period has been a very sobering one and a great opportunity for growth.
So is deconstruction dangerous?
In the first article, I expressed some hesitancy in adopting the term ‘deconstruction’ into the Christian lexicon and common use. I did this because I think there is already a term for Christians who believe primary Christian doctrines and are asking questions about secondary Christian issues. There is also a term for folks who do not believe in primary truths and are investigating central gospel claims to see if this is something they believe and want to build their life on. Deconstruction seems to create this middle ground, a certain no-ideological space where people can perpetually exist and not have to make any claims.
I explained that:
Orthodox Christianity has always been capacious enough for difficult questions. It’s what we thank the reformers for now. They asked difficult questions and found comfort in some answers. Questions are welcome but the Christian faith is built on some very important foundations.
These are what we may call primary issues, topics like the trinity, salvation by faith alone, Christ’s substitutionary atonement, the virgin birth, the sinlessness of Christ, Christ’s death, burial, resurrection, ascension and future bodily return, the authority of scripture. Christians can question these but must reach a resolution because this forms the foundation for their Christian walk. They cannot live in perpetual limbo on issues like this.
Things are different for secondary issues. If and when we levy pejorative attacks against other Christians or defame their character because they hold a different view, I believe we have climbed over the safety rail established by Scripture. Not only do we do injury to others, but we risk injury to ourselves. There is a warning of loss of rewards (Mt. 12:46). There are also fewer ministry opportunities after being rightly labelled a sour Christian who cannot “play well in the sandbox” with other Christians.
Whilst this is true of secondary issues, tampering with core issues is akin to playing faith Jenga with belief. If enough key pillars are pulled out, then the whole thing topples. This is what many people encounter after ‘deconstructing’. Asking questions as a Christian is one thing, joining a branded movement is another. In many ways, we shouldn’t be too shocked by the fruit from this.
To offer a pastoral note, my fear is that “theological deconstruction” is a slippery term. It’s a catch-all phrase that encompasses thousands of people’s spiritual journeys and so can never communicate the whole story. Anything I write about deconstruction can always be rebutted by someone saying, I don’t really understand the movement or I’m using the term incorrectly. This is exactly the problem. The term is a ghost and so impossible to address or really speak about.
I don’t believe it is appropriate for church leaders to endorse this term, but they can and should commit to creating environments where doubt isn’t a dirty word and where a person who has already crossed the line of faith and committed themselves to Christ can go to discuss difficult subjects. The internet is littered with the blogs of ex-Christians who never found answers to their questions. Surely the onus is on us to make sure our churches are places not only where non-Christians are welcome but also places for Christians who wrestle with doubt to find the answers they’re so desperately looking for.
Asking questions is arguably a sign that a person’s faith is growing, not stagnating. The answers that satisfied us as Christian teenagers may not sustain us as we enter mid-life. We need to think again, and the Bible’s instruction to love God “with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37), means we can’t bury our heads in the sand.
A note on maturing
So to tackle the question head-on, is deconstruction dangerous? Well if we are talking about growing in our faith through structured and intentional questioning, absolutely not. ‘Maturing’ as the bible calls it, is a natural process Christians are encouraged to go on. Throughout the bible, we are told about the merits of maturing and growing in our faith (1 Corinthians 14:20, 1 Corinthians 13:11, Ephesians 4:14-15, Ephesians 4:13, Hebrews 5:12-13, 2 Peter 3:18, Romans 5:3-4) and the bible doesn’t hold back in making its benefits clear. The process is not a simple or straightforward one. It involves doubt, responding to senseless tragedies or prayers that seem unanswered.
There are all types of growing or coming of age in your faith. I think this point is well made if we consider blogger and creator of the Poema podcast, James Prescott. He said in an online post that he was comfortable wearing the ‘evangelical’ label for many years, but that changed in the year 2000 when his mother passed away. He said “Suddenly the God I had known and grown up with was no longer big enough,” he says. “I had questions and doubts and nowhere to take them. The tragedy in this story is not that the death of his mother rocked his faith. I can empathise with that and I know many people who have gone through similar testing of their faith as a result of death. It’s hard, complicated and sorrowful. A greater tragedy was that he felt he had nowhere to take his doubts. That’s when we need the Christian community the most. When we go through these tough and difficult times.
Words like trials, temptations, refining, and testing occur more than 200 times in the Bible. I remember a portion of Purpose Driven Life that I read. It said:
“Character is both developed and revealed by tests, and all of life is a test. You are always being tested. God constantly watches your response to people, problems, success, conflict, illness, disappointment, and even the weather! He even watches the simplest actions such as when you open a door for others, when you pick up a piece of trash, or when you’re polite toward a clerk or waitress. We don’t know all the tests God will give you, but we can predict some of them, based on the Bible. You will be tested by major changes, delayed promises, impossible problems, unanswered prayers, undeserved criticism, and even senseless tragedies.”
This short portion captures so well how we are developed by the things we go through. Even though difficult times come to believers, we grow through what we go through. This kind of growth and maturing is actively encouraged in the Bible and nurtured by the Holy Spirit who promises to make His home with us (John 14:23).
It might look cool to be a wandering spiritual nomad forever, but I don’t think that gets you anywhere. Growth through doubt is the aim.
Beware of cultural pop
Deconstructionism is a curious idea. In an odd way, it takes the Babel story a stage further. Instead of the multiplicity of languages and the confusion it creates, we are left, as it were, with no language at all- either in which God could speak to us or in which we can address each other.
There is something to be said about the ‘latest’ evangelical movement, iconoclastic in nature and also kind of cool. This kind of movement is alluring, it feels like you are on the cutting edge of new thinking and new approaches. These aren’t just my speculations, these are some of the ways, ‘members’ of the movement have described it to me. It may not be the case that all who are part of this movement identity with this description, however, there is no denying, there is a sort of electricity surrounding deconstruction circles as they brand themselves as the next new thing.
Christians need to do better
Rather than allowing room for sincere doubt and questions, some Christian communities reject anything more than superficial curiosity. That may extend to carelessly labelling those with doubts as unbelievers or troublemakers. This lends weight to those who falsely claim that valid answers are only found outside the church. Faith communities may obsess over teachings that are secondary or even superficial. They may cement cultural and political preferences into their view of Christianity. Those errors also feed the false narrative driving much of the modern deconstruction movement.
It’s clear to me that some deconstruct in response to deeply personal pain and disappointment. I covered some of these reasons in the first article. Those who have been neglected, rejected, or even abused within a church context struggle to separate unbiblical traumas from legitimate teachings of Scripture. Failures and betrayals from Christian leaders create heartache and embarrassment. Pain felt by those we love becomes a pain in our own lives. Some respond to these struggles by jettisoning doctrines or beliefs; this is partly an attempt to distance themselves from the stigma of another person’s actions.
These are admittedly failures of the modern church and failures of Christians. However, these failures can and should be corrected. There will always be those whose connection to faith is superficial (Matthew 7:21). Others have understanding fragile enough to fail under strain (Hebrews 3:12). Jesus’ parable of the sower includes two groups who demonstrate a response to truth, only to be overcome by worldly pressure or persecution (Matthew 13:20–22). Paul knew people often succumb to attractive lies (2 Timothy 4:3–4). Paul witnessed close friends yielding to popular trends (2 Timothy 4:10). Even Christ saw people walk away because they did not want to accept His message (John 6:65–66).
In the last instalment of this series, we will consider the question, Should I Deconstruct in an interview with one of the writers here at Our God-Given Mission
Only in the cities of these peoples that the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance, you shall not leave alive anything that breathes. But you shall utterly destroy them, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, just as the Lord your God has commanded you -Deuteronomy 20:16-17
Is God different in each Testament?
One of the things that have caused people to question God is His call for violence in the Old Testament. People find it hard to understand how “the God of the Old Testament” can be the same “God of the New Testament”. To those who haven’t read the Bible as a whole, the two Testaments reflect a disparity in the nature of God. So the general belief is that God was violent and harsh in the Old Testament and tender in the New Testament.
The issue with this belief is the fact that it’s wrong. God didn’t suddenly change in the New Testament. He’s the same God in both Testaments. So the question remains, “if the God of the New Testament, the God of love is the same as the God in the Old Testament, why did He command the Israelites to commit so many violent acts in the Old Testament?”
Understanding God’s nature
To understand God’s call for violence in the Old Testament, you have to understand the nature of God.
One of the things that The Bible makes very clear is the fact that God is Holy. It’s repeated several times in the Bible and in the praises sung to Him.
And one called out to another and said, “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts. The whole earth is full of His glory.
Isaiah 6:3
To be holy means to be set apart, blameless, and without blemish. This means that the smallest of sin cannot come near God, which is made evident in Habakuk 1:13. This is why when the Israelites were moving into the promised land, God asked them to eradicate everyone that was in the land they were taking over. The Bible says that God had made the Israelites His people, those who would carry His name and herald His glory for the whole world to see, Deuteronomy 14:2; Exodus 19:5-6. Therefore they had to be distinct from those who surrounded them Leviticus 18:2-4. And had desired to make them His habitation Psalm 132:6. Except, God can’t dwell in sin because He is Holy. In order for God to dwell among the Israelites, they had to be Holy.
Thus you are to be holy to Me, for I the Lord am holy; and I have set you apart from the peoples to be Mine.
Leviticus 20:26
Why did God call for such violence?
God called for the violence because He is omniscient. God sees all and knows all. This means He knew that if the Israelites didn’t kill the people in those lands, the Israelites would become just like them.
But you shall utterly destroy them, the Hittite, the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite and the Jebusite, just as the Lord your God has commanded you,so that they will not teach you to act in accordance with all the detestable practices which they have done [in worship and service] for their gods, and in this way cause you to sin against the Lord your God.
Deuteronomy 20:17-18
Unfortunately, this is exactly what happened. The people that the Israelites spared caused Israel to sin and caused Israel to become wicked. The Israelites began to engage and follow their pagan practices, which involved burning their children as sacrifices, practicing divination, selling themselves to evildoing, worshipping idols, oppressing the poor and the weak and so much more, as the pagans did (2 Kings 17:17; Jeremiah 32:35).
It’s important that you understand that nothing God does is in vain. God also doesn’t take pleasure in the killings of the wicked (Ezekiel 33:11); instead, God wants their salvation. However, it’s important that we remember that God knew the hearts of every single person that he ordered killed.
I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward each person according to their conduct.
Jeremiah 17:10
God created every single one of them and so He knew their thoughts, their past, their present, and their future. This means that when God said they were wicked, they were truly wicked.
God’s mercy in the midst of judgement
God was welcoming to any foreigner who was willing to join the children of Israel and turn to Him (Isaiah 56:6-8). He had grace for any foreigner that turned to Him and repented from their ways (Jeremiah 12:15-17). However, these people were so steeped in wickedness, and their hearts were stone, so the only route left was judgement. This means that unless they turned from their ways, they met the fate of death that God had commanded.
Furthermore, it is important to note that these calls for violence should not just be strictly seen as violence. In fact, in these commands, God was carrying out justice for the wicked acts these people had engaged in (Proverbs 11:21, Ecclesiastes 8:11). The justice in the Old Testament also foreshadows the day of judgment and hell prophesied for the future (2 Corinthians 5:10.)
Know that He is God
However, I think it’s also very important that we understand that He is God, so He can do and undo. But we can trust in the fact that God’s actions are pure and holy because His nature never changes. So it’s not for us to question God, instead, we must learn to trust His decisions.
Does the clay say to the potter, ‘What are you making?’ Does your work say, ‘The potter has no hands’?
Isaiah 45:9
Acknowledging and understanding that God is God, and as a result is subject to no one, is vital to finding peace in your faith. Once you accept the sovereignty of God and the fact that He’s unquestionable, you will find solace in the fact that you can never fully understand God, but you can absolutely trust God.
There is much conversation on how Christians should relate to the ten commandments. Some believe that the ten commandments often referred to as the “moral law”, still bears spiritual weight today as these commandments are derived from the heart of God for all time. Others believe that the ten commandments are under the umbrella of the old covenant and therefore the Christian has no need to adhere to its demands. The debate rages on when discussing one commandment amongst the ten prescribed. Should Christians keep the Sabbath? Most Christians will agree that the New testaments speaks clearly on all other 9 commandments, but what does have to say about the Sabbath?
What Is The Sabbath?
The word “Sabbath” is the Hebrew word Sabbat which means “to stop or cease”. The first time we see this word mentioned is in Genesis when God rested after 6 days of work (Genesis 2:2-3). Then when God established a covenant with His people, Israel, He incorporates keeping the Sabbath within the 10 commandments. (Exodus 20:8-11). Interestingly, God connects this law to the Seventh Day in which He rested from His work (Exodus 20:11). This law declares that when the Israelites rest from their work they image their Creator who rested from His. Moreover, in resting the Israelites declare that God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things apart from their work. Observing the Sabbath was a non-negotiable and breaking the sabbath resulted in death (Exodus 31:14, 35:2, Numbers 15:32). Why such harsh consequences? Well, breaking the sabbath proclaims two lies: 1) God is not in control and 2) my provision comes from my work. Observing the Sabbath severs the temptation to believe these lies but also allows for delighting in God – the One who creates and saves (Deuteronomy 5:12-15).
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How Do I Sabbath?
Before the Sabbath was a command, it was promise. The Sabbath wasn’t given for mankind to attain but to observe the work of God. When observing the Sabbath, the Israelites were to remember the work of God in saving them from slavery in Egypt (Deuteronomy 5:15). Christians observe the Sabbath by remembering what God has done for us in Christ (Hebrews 4:9-10). God invites us to enter the same rest He enjoyed on the seventh day, every day. Paul makes it clear in his writings that the setting aside a day to observe the Sabbath is a matter of personal conviction (Romans 14:5, Colossians 2:16-17). Whatever you decide, you should not use your conviction in such a way that violates the liberty of others when considering disputed issues (Romans 14:1, 13). Neither should you hold the notion that Sabbath is a burdensome chore that must be obeyed strictly or avoided vehemently. Jesus reminds us that “the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27). When considering how you will observe the Sabbath, remember that the Sabbath isn’t a challenge for you to complete but a gift for you to enjoy. God wants us to rest from the spiritual and physical toils of life that we attempt to root our identities in. The seventh day is the only day that doesn’t end (Genesis 2:1-2). The implication here is that God’s rest hasn’t ended and is available for all those believe in His work. If you’re tired and weary, working harder won’t save you – enter God’s rest (Matthew 11:28-30).
Whether you decide to observe a particular day or time, know that to Sabbath is more than just taking time off your busy schedule. To Sabbath is to tell God, yourself, and others; that I’m not in control. To Sabbath allows us to enjoy God as the Creator, Sustainer and Saviour of all things. So, will you Sabbath?
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. -Colossians 3:16
Recently there has been a rise of Generation Z Christians who are full of zeal and hunger for the word of God and desire to learn and grow in their faith. However, it appears that the source of their biblical knowledge (in some, but not all cases) tends to be strictly from private devotion and Christian influencers on social media. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can receive fresh revelation from the Word of God and we are free to share it. Yet whilst doing this, it is still important as Christians that we gather to fellowship with others in the church and/or bible study for regular teaching, discipleship, and accountability. If we cut the church out of our faith journey, this generation of Christians is at risk of idolising influencers and their ministries whilst becoming blinded to the relevance of the church. The question is how did we get here, and can it be changed?
Why do influencers have so much influence?
When young and zealous Christians are seen sharing their spiritual walk and their revelations about the Gospel, whilst encouraging listeners- it is very easy to gravitate towards them. As Romans 10:15 says, it is great to share the good news of the Gospel, and influencers can use their platforms to draw Christians from far and wide.
Naturally, when people see crowds, they draw closer to see what is happening or in other words, the more followers/likes an influencer has, the more “legit” they may seem. Not only this, but these Christian influencers also appear relatable and approachable, which is a great appeal to Gen Z Christians. Yet, just like Wikipedia is a useful but not 100% accurate source of information so are influencers; they are great vessels to discuss the Word, but they cannot be the main well of wisdom. Not only this, in some more sinister cases the Gospel could be mishandled and used to mislead Christian followers; for example the use of the Word of God to spiritually abuse and manipulate Christians for control over their lives and/or finances. Although this too can occur within the church, it is important the Word of God is not used for personal gain (2 Corinthians 2:17).
Is the church still relevant?
The Church, the body and the bride of Christ, is not just the physical building but the collection of Christians worldwide, individuals who have been called out for a specific mission on this earth for His glory. We gather in church to meet with our heavenly Father and worship Him together- a reflection of what we can anticipate in eternity. Yet over time, due to the sin deep within us, the church has become a place of control, manipulation, and abuse; where religion prevails as opposed to a personal relationship and Holy spirit transformation. Many Gen Z Christians struggle to find church leaders relatable or may not find the church experience representative of their 21st-century experiences and challenges. It is important that we acknowledge what they face and emphasise that Christ is still real and relevant, and the church is a place of refuge and solace. The church offers covering for your soul (Hebrews 13:17, Acts 20:28), guidance (1 Timothy 5:17-18), pastoral care (Acts 20:28), and correction when needed (Acts 18:26, Galatians 1:8-12)- vital things influencers are unable to provide.
Ultimately the zeal Gen Z Christians have must be combined with the knowledge and accountability that comes from being planted in a local church; corporate fellowship adds a layer of wisdom that cannot be achieved alone.
Can this divide be united?
So, what is the answer, unfollow all influencers? Certainly not, Christian influencers have a place in the faith journey of Christians, but they alone cannot be the pastors of Gen Z Christians. The church has and will always be relevant but as time progresses the delivery of messages may need to adapt:
Create spaces for young people to speak/discuss openly and freely in groups with elders to offer wisdom
Promote opportunities for mentorship/discipleship
Organise retreats for spiritual encounters with their age mates
Whilst the Word of God is absolute and cannot be diluted, it can certainly be delivered in a more dynamic way to be accessible to all, so we do not lose some Christians through the net because they felt isolated.
In conclusion, whilst we may live in a time of social media and influencers, the Bible remains our source of truth and knowledge. As a church, let us learn to deliver God’s word in a creative and radical way without losing the essence of the truth. Let us become everything to everyone for the sake of the Gospel (1 Cor 9:22).
Life is full of questions. Some of which are easier to answer than others. Even when we get the answers to the questions that we have, sometimes they do nothing to satisfy the curiosity within our souls. These questions produce doubt in our lives because they demonstrate what each person intuitively knows – we are not in control.
When these questions come, what do we do? Or perhaps a better question is, where do we go? When doubts consume our minds, it can be hard to make sense of the world and all that is in it. Doubt is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to be the driving force within our lives. This means that we can live with our doubts but be governed by someone who is greater than them. Doubt can either lead us to sinful worry or joyful hope. Where do your doubts lead you to? My hope is that with my next few words you will realise that doubt doesn’t have to rule your life. That when the waves of doubt seek to consume your life, you have a Creator who tells these waves “Peace, be still” (Mark 4:39).
Perhaps you’re struggling with doubt right now or you have just finished a battle with doubt. Whichever stage of life you are at, you want to be armed with truth to combat the lies those doubts may be whispering in your ears. So here are 5 things to consider when you doubt.
1. God does not condemn you
The Psalms are full of God’s people asking why? Why are you taking so long to answer my prayer (Psalm 130), why are my enemies triumphing over me (Psalm 25), why are the wicked prospering? (Psalm 73). God isn’t angry when you come to Him with your doubts. He understands that we are limited, after all, we are dust (Psalm 103:14). God doesn’t want you to be consumed by your doubts or to complain to others about how great your doubts are. Instead, God wants you to run to Him with your doubts because He cares about you (1 Peter 5:7).
2. The just live by faith
When you have doubts, it is understandable that you look for a solution that will quell them all. However, the Bible never promises that all our questions will be answered. The Bible does promise that the more we know Him, the more our faith will rise to trust God when we don’t receive the answers we desire (Hebrews 12:2). True faith doesn’t say I need to have all the answers to trust you. True faith says, I don’t have all the answers I want but I know enough about you to trust you in and with my doubts.
3) Where are my doubts from?
This is the hardest point to consider. When you’re battling doubts, it can be difficult to think clearly as to why you are doubting. Therefore, being part of a local church is critical. Where the waves of doubts are hitting you on every side, your family of believers are there to help stabilise the boat (1 Thessalonians 5:14). As the adage goes, a burden shared is a burden halved. It can be frightening to share your doubts, and perhaps you have had bad experiences. So, for those who are entrusted with people’s doubt, handle them with care. Doubters need mercy, not think pieces. When doubts arise, people need God’s words not our own.
4) The devil is a liar
We can often use this phrase casually and so the truthfulness of this statement can be lost. But if you’re doubting today remember this – the devil is a liar. The devil seeks to kill, steal, and destroy (John 10:10). He wishes to use your doubts against you to influence you to believe lies about God and yourself. The antidote for lies is the truth. The more you fill yourself with the truth of God’s word the easier you will be able to discern lies (John 8:31-32). That is why it’s vital to engage with God’s word daily. Not to primarily have your questions answered, but to see God rightly. When you see God rightly, you will see that your doubts aren’t strong enough to move the One who has you in the palm of His hand.
5) God will keep you
This is the most important to remember. Your doubts although they may be great, are not greater than your Saviour. Nothing can separate you from the love of God that is in Christ (Romans 8:35). You are not saved by your ability to suppress your doubts neither will you be abandoned if your doubts overwhelm you. Jesus saved you and Jesus will keep you. When nothing else makes sense, remember that Jesus died and saved you from your sins, so that you may be one with Him (Colossians 2:6-15). When your doubts threaten to consume you, remember the empty tomb that declares all of God’s enemies have been defeated, including your doubts. When Satan seeks to use your doubts against you remember “Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,” (Jude 24).
If you are struggling with doubt, you are not alone. I have my doubts too. But our doubts won’t win, Jesus already has.
