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Your Tribe Is Not Your God

Chude Obuaya
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Your Tribe Is Not Your God
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The world is filled with a variety of issues. When people engage with these issues, opposing sides are rapidly filled with their proponents at the ready to support their position, whether right or wrong. The problem that arises when engaging with these issues, especially difficult ones, is that people are susceptible to tribalism over truth. The tendency is to follow your tribe’s position, no matter the cost. This tendency is often seen amongst Christians when engaging with the hot topics of our time. Whilst Christians have the liberty to hold various positions on non-primary issues, what we do not have the liberty to is abscond on the truth because it does not fit our tribe’s view. So how can we faithfully navigate through different topics and ensure that our allegiance is to the truth and not to our tribe?

Say No to Tribalism


Firstly, it is important to define what tribalism is. Tribalism is defined as “the possession of a strong cultural or ethnic identity that separates one member of a group from the members of another group”. In other words, tribalism is when people are overly loyal to their group (whether political, social, theological etc). This leads to people being over-critical of groups with an opposing view to their group and under-critical of the views of their own group. When we hold a non-critical view of our tribe, we become blind to its flaws, bad arguments, and poor positions. We can often find ourselves on the side of the oppressor, rallying against justice and standing firm against the truth. As Christians this should not be so after all “He [God] has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8). We cannot stand on the side of justice, kindness, or humility if we are committed to being on the side of our tribe no matter their position.

The temptation to show greater fidelity to your leader or tribe than the truth is not a new phenomenon. Whilst the scriptures may not use tribalism as we have defined it, 1 Corinthians 3 uses a word that bears close similarity. In this portion of scripture, Paul bemoans the church of Corinth over their sectarianism (or tribalism). Paul states that when there is strife and jealousy amongst Christians because they hold varying positions, that they are acting according to the flesh (1 Corinthians 3:2-3). Whilst this text is referring mainly to Christians following Church leaders, the premise can be used for Christians following any leader or tribe. What we must remember is that our tribes are not given to us so that we can boast in them, but given by God as a means of grace for our benefit and the benefit of others (1 Corinthians 3:21-23).

Tribalism is Really Unbelief


If we want to accurately deal with the sins that beset us, then we must rightly diagnose them. Tribalism is a symptom, not the root cause. Tribalism – Partiality – Idolatry – Unbelief. Tribalism occurs because of the sin of partiality. To show partiality is to show unfair bias towards a person or a group and this is a consequence of tribalism. To show partiality is to break the royal law which is to love your neighbour as yourself (James 2:8). Yet this sin unravels deeper still because partiality is the fruit of idolatry. Idolatry is when we place any person or anything above the name and renown of God, thus diminishing His glory. Tribalism produces an ungodly allegiance that says my bias is a greater treasure to me than God. The truth does not matter to the one that is unwaveringly committed to his/her tribe. What matters is that they are right in their own eyes or the eyes of their tribe. This is a perilous position because the scriptures tell us that there is a way that seems right to us that leads to death (Proverbs 14:12). Still, idolatry is a product of a deeper issue still and this, in my view, is the seed that produces all of sins fruit – unbelief. Tribalism is ultimately unbelief because it states that a tribe can give me something that Jesus cannot. Tribalism states that the opinion of my tribe is greater than the opinion of God (John 12:42-43). Tribalism states that the truth is not important, but my position is, even if it is wrong and is potentially harmful in its implication or application. Tribalism trusts in its group rather than in Christ and by no other name can a man be saved but in the name of Jesus (Acts 4:12).

Your Tribe is Christianity


In Christ we have the freedom to eat what we want, live where we want, support whatever political party and be part of whatever Christian denomination we want (Romans 14:1-12). What we do not have the privilege to do is use our freedom as an occasion for sin or to support that which is sinful (Galatians 5:13). Supporting a particular tribe is not an issue if we realise that our tribe does not have the monopoly on truth, Jesus does. We do not need Christians who are drunk from the ideological positions of their tribe, instead, we need Christians who remain sober-minded, committed to Jesus and those who He created in His image for His glory.

Is there such a thing as ‘Christian dating’?

On Mission
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Is there such a thing as ‘Christian dating’?

As the words “courtship” and “dating” are not found in the Bible, everyone seems to have their own principles and guidelines as to how Christians should date. This tends to lead to all sorts of confusion as to what Christian dating looks like and whether or not dating is something Christians should do all together. In this weeks episode, our four guests look at if there is such thing as biblical dating? If so, what is it? And how can Christians think differently about this pervasive issue in media and culture?  

Guests: Susana Clapcott, Toye Akinoso, Rufaro Jerahuni, Lisa Collins-Browns  

Join the discussion online using #onthetable

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How To Care For Those Struggling With Their Mental Health

Oluwaseyi Sobogun
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How To Care For Those Struggling With Their Mental Health
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As of late, it seems as though the church community is learning to talk more about mental health and really understand that being a Christian does not exempt us from suffering these illnesses. About 1 in 4 people will experience a mental health issue each year, which means it is more than likely a brother or sister of yours, in Christ, is struggling with their mental health. We need to, in our smaller spaces, where we encounter fellow Christians, discern how to converse with them on such issues and most importantly have empathy without judgement. So, how do we do that?

Listen First

We should listen with a heart of tenderness, to be quick to listen rather than speak (James 1:19). We need to really pay attention to what is being said, to understand without offering a solution. It can be difficult to talk about our mental health: the internal battles, the problems, especially as a Christian. There is an expectation that we Christians do not suffer the same ailments as the world, yet, we do. When we speak on these issues, it is not time to say we need to “read our bible more” or “pray more”; this is a time to listen.

A time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak

Ecclesiastes 3:7

At the feet of Jesus, Mary sat and listened (Luke 10:39). Martha was busy doing and trying to make everything ready but that was not what was required (v. 40-41). In that moment, Jesus called them to sit and be with Him. Only one thing was important. Similarly, our friends or fellow Christians may require our support through our mere presence. To receive comfort knowing someone is actively listening.

Pray Together

Although in these moments we may not feel like praying, we appreciate prayers. We can pray for and with our brothers or sisters during these periods. We can pray about the situation that is making us anxious, or pray about the day to help us get through.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God

Philippians 4:6

The opportunity to pray as a community, to come into agreement in front of God can be a source of strength and support for those who need it. As we read in Matthew 18:20, Jesus says “where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I with them”. There is comfort in collectively laying our burdens or anxieties at the feet of Jesus who says that He will carry them and He cares (Ps. 55:22; 1 Peter 5:7). Praying together can be a reminder that we are not alone.

Even so, we should be cautious of prayers that invalidate the feelings and experience of the person. Understandably, prayer does refresh, as we give our problems to God but we have to properly deal with the issues and the underlying problems that cause the outward reactions.

Be Compassionate

Above all else, we need to have compassion to be there as a friend and fellow believer. We have our faith in the Lord as a common understanding but we need to further comprehend that believers can, have and will continue to go through difficulties in relation to mental health.

We need to stop cancelling our feelings in the name of faith. Our feelings are a good indication of what is going on in our minds and how we are dealing with it. It is important to listen attentively to our body, taking moments out to think about what we are thinking about. Meditation is the process of pausing to think about something. We read in the bible to meditate on the word of God day and night in Joshua 1:8. It doesn’t eradicate the problem but it can help to bring a different perspective to the situation when we look at what God is saying to us.

In general, we should all think more on mental health and the impact on those around us. As the body of Christ, we are to display the character of Him. Jesus asks us to be there for each other (Jn. 13:34), to be selfless and to do onto others as we would like done unto us (Matt. 7:12).

To find out more about the topic of faith and mental health, listen to this episode of the On The Table Podcast!

True Discipleship

On Mission
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True Discipleship

Q: What excuse did Adam give to his children as to why he no longer lived in Eden? A: Your mother ate us out of house and home!

What is Discipleship?

The term is ambiguous in English. It can mean my discipleship, in the sense of my own pattern of following Jesus and trusting him and learning from him. That is my discipleship. It could mean that. Or it can mean my activity of helping others be disciples in that sense of learning from him, growing in him.

“People need to become Christians, and people need to be taught how to think and feel and act as a Christian. That is a disciple.”

The second meaning — helping others — does have a verb in New Testament Greek: mathēteuō, to make disciples. It can mean preach the gospel so that people get converted to Christ and become Christians and, thus, disciples. For example, Acts 14:21 says, “When they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium.” So that “make disciples” is one Greek word there, and it means “get them converted to Jesus.” That is what it means.

Discussion

  • When did you first come across the term?
  • How would you describe being a disciple?

By definition, a disciple is a follower, one who accepts and assists in spreading the doctrines of another. A Christian disciple is a person who accepts and assists in the spreading of the good news of Jesus Christ. Christian discipleship is the process by which disciples grow in the Lord Jesus Christ and are equipped by the Holy Spirit, who resides in our hearts, to overcome the pressures and trials of this present life and become more and more Christlike.

This process requires believers to respond to the Holy Spirit’s prompting to examine their thoughts, words and actions and compare them with the Word of God. This requires that we be in the Word daily—studying it, praying over it, and obeying it. In addition, we should always be ready to give testimony of the reason for the hope that is within us (1 Peter 3:15) and to disciple others to walk in His way. According to Scripture, being a Christian disciple involves personal growth characterized by the following:

True Discipleship (William Macdonald)

The pathway to true discipleship begins when a person is born again. It
begins when the following events take place:

  1. When a person realizes that he is sinful, lost, blind and naked before
    God.
  2. When he acknowledges that he cannot save himself by good
    character or good works.
  3. When he believes that the Lord Jesus Christ died as his Substitute
    on the Cross.
  4. When by a definite decision of faith, he acknowledges Jesus Christ
    as his only Lord and Saviour.

This is how a person becomes a Christian. It is important to emphasize
this at the outset. Too many people think that you become a Christian by
living a Christian life. NOT at all! You must first become a Christian before
you can live the Christian life.

The Terms of Discipleship

True Christianity is an all-out commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ.
The Saviour is not looking for men and women who will give their spare
evenings to Him—or their weekends—or their years of retirement.

Rather He seeks those who will give Him first place in their lives. “He looks today,
as He has ever looked, not for crowds drifting aimlessly in His track, but
for individual men and women whose undying allegiance will spring from
their having recognized that He wants those who are prepared to follow
the path of self-renunciation which He trod before them”1—H. A. Evan
Hopkins.

Nothing less than unconditional surrender could ever be a fitting response
to His sacrifice at Calvary. Love so amazing, so divine, could never be
satisfied with less than our souls, our lives, our all.

The Lord Jesus made stringent demands on those who would be His
disciples—demands that are all but overlooked in this day of luxury living.
Too often we look upon Christianity as an escape from hell and guarantee of heaven. Beyond that, we feel that we have every right to
enjoy the best that this life has to offer. We know that there are those
strong verses on discipleship in the Bible, but we have difficulty reconciling
them with our ideas of what Christianity should be.
We can accept the fact that soldiers give their lives for patriotic reasons.

We do not think it strange that Communists give their lives for political
reasons. But that “blood, sweat and tears” should characterize the life of
a follower of Christ somehow seems remote and hard to grasp.
And yet the words of the Lord Jesus are clear enough.

There is scarcely any room for misunderstanding if we accept them at their face value. Here
are the terms of discipleship as laid down by the Saviour of the world:

7 Terms we should soberly consider

A supreme love for Jesus Christ.

“If any man come to me and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and
children, and brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot
be my disciple” (Luke 14:26).

This does not mean that we should ever have animosity or ill-will in our hearts toward our relatives, but it does mean that our love to Christ should be so great that all other loves are
hatred by comparison. Actually, the most difficult clause in this passage is the expression, “yea, and his own life also.” Self-love is one of the stubbornest hindrances to discipleship. Not until we are willing to lay down our very lives for Him are we in the place where He wants us.

A denial of self.


“If any man will come after me, let him deny himself…” (Matthew 16:24).

Denial of self is not the same as self-denial. The latter means foregoing certain foods, pleasures, or possessions. But denial of self means such complete submission to the lordship of Christ that self has no rights or authority at all. It means that self-abdicates the throne. It is expressed in the words of Henry Martyn,

“Lord, let me have no will of my own, or
consider my true happiness as depending in the smallest degree on
anything that can befall me outwardly, but as consisting altogether in
conformity to Thy will.”
My glorious Victor, Prince divine,
Clasp these surrendered hands in Thine,
At length my will is all thine own,
Glad vassals of a Saviour’s throne”

H. G. C. Moule

A deliberate choosing of the cross.


“If any man come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross…”
(Matthew 16:24).

The cross is not some physical infirmity or mental anguish; these things are common to all men. The cross is a pathway that is deliberately chosen. It is “a path which so far as this world goes is one of dishonour and reproach”—C. A. Coates. The cross symbolizes the shame, persecution and abuse which the world heaped upon the Son of God, and which the world will heap on all who choose to stand against the tide. Any believer can avoid the cross simply by being conformed to the world and its ways.

A life spent in following Christ.

“If any man come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross,
and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).

To understand what this means, one need simply ask himself, “What characterized the life of the Lord Jesus?”

It was a life of obedience to the will of God. It was a life lived in the power of the Holy Spirit. It was a life of unselfish service for others. It was a life of patience and longsuffering in the face of the gravest wrongs. It was a life of zeal, of expenditure, of self-control, of meekness, of kindness, of faithfulness and of devotion (Galatians 5:22, 23). In order to be His disciples, we must walk as He walked. We must exhibit the fruit of Christlikeness (John 15:8).

A fervent love for all who belong to Christ.

“By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to
another” (John 13:35).

This is the love that esteems others better than oneself. It is the love that suffers long and is kind. It vaunts not itself and is not puffed up. It does not behave itself unseemly; seeks not its own, is not easily provoked; thinks no evil. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Without this love, discipleship would be a cold, legalistic asceticism.

An unswerving continuance in His Word.


“If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31).


For real discipleship there must be continuance. It is easy enough to start well, to burst forth in a blaze of glory. But the test of reality is endurance to the end. Any man who looks back after putting his hand to the plot is not fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62). Spasmodic obedience to the Scriptures will not do. Christ wants those who will follow Him in constant,
unquestioning obedience. Keep me from turning back The handles of my plough with tears are wet, The shears with rust are spoiled, and yet, and yet, My God! My God! Keep me from turning back.

A forsaking of all to follow Him.


“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath,
he cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33).

This is perhaps the most unpopular of all Christ’s terms of discipleship, and may well prove to be the most unpopular verse in the Bible. Clever theologians can give you a thousand reasons why it does not mean what it says, but simple disciples drink it down eagerly, assuming that the Lord Jesus knew what He was saying.

What is meant by forsaking all?

It means an abandonment of all one’s material possessions that are not absolutely essential and that could be used in the spread of the gospel. The man who forsakes all does not
become a shiftless loafer; he works hard to provide for the current necessities of his family and himself. But since the passion of his life is to advance the cause of Christ, he invests everything above current needs in the work of the Lord and leaves the future with God. In seeking first the
kingdom of God and His righteousness, he believes that he will never lack food and clothing. He cannot conscientiously hold on to surplus fun when souls are perishing for want of the gospel.

He does not want to waste his life accumulating riches that will fall into the devil’s hands when
Christ returns for His saints. He wants to obey the Lord’s injunction against laying up treasure on earth. In forsaking all, he offers what he cannot keep anyway, and what he has ceased to love.


These then are the seven terms of Christian discipleship. They are clear and unequivocal. The writer realizes that in the act of setting them forth, he has condemned himself as an unprofitable servant. But shall the truth of God be forever suppressed because of the failure of God’s people? Is it not true that the message is always greater than the messenger? Is it
not proper that God be true and every man a liar? Should we not say with an old worthy, “Thy will be done though in my own undoing.”

Why Racism Rejects the Gospel

D. W. Brown
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Why Racism Rejects the Gospel

Hi reader, thank you for clicking on this article. As a charity, it is due to the donation from individuals that allow us to share this article with you for free! However the truth is, less than 1% of our readers donate and in order for us to keep on going, we need your help. If you donate just £2 a month, you can help Our God Given mission keep thriving. To donate, click here.

Prefer to listen? Listen here!

There has been a huge amount of material written on the topic of racism from a Christian perspective, particularly last year in response to the tragic murder of George Floyd, and throughout the Black Lives Matter protests.

I don’t expect to share anything new or ground-breaking in this piece, but I think it’s helpful to continually be thinking about how the gospel message combats racism. It’s alarming when we see professing Christians exhibiting racist behaviour because the gospel condemns it so loudly and strongly. Please allow me to share these three simple points.

Made in God’s Image

Then God said “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness”

-Genesis 1:26

Right at the beginning of God’s word we learn that mankind was made in the image of God. There are no exceptions here, no divisions, no ifs, buts or maybes. Every single man and woman has been made in the image of Him.

That we are all made in the image of God isn’t just an interesting fact – it has enormous ramifications on how we ought to think about and behave towards others. James alludes to this and makes the point clear when writing about the importance of taming the tongue, he writes “With it, we bless our Lord and Father, and with it, we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” (James 3:9-10)

The clear implication from this passage is that professing to be a Christian goes hand in hand with using our tongues to build up, encourage and bless others. There is no room whatsoever for division or bias based on skin colour, all are made in God’s image.

No Partiality

For God shows no partiality.

– Romans 2:11

Something that is repeated several times in the New Testament, is that God shows no partiality. Peter says it in Acts 10:34-35, Paul states it in Romans 2:11, and James writes in James 2:9 that “if you show partiality, you are committing sin”.

It couldn’t be any clearer from reading scripture that for us to show partiality, or to put it another way, to discriminate against anyone, is utterly wicked and it’s totally contradictory to God’s character.

The Gospel Unites

There is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him.

– Romans 10:12

One of the many beautiful aspects of the gospel, it its unifying power. Through the gospel we find ourselves united to followers of Christ all over the world. We become family with them, united in an even more profound sense than our biological families.

It is a marvellous thing that there is level ground at the foot of the cross. That anyone, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, social status, economic status, or any other distinguishing factor, finds the same gracious offer of salvation. We celebrate and rejoice in this together, uniting with brothers and sisters all over the world in our joyful gratitude to God. I love the following section from Paul’s letter to the church in Ephesus, where he is expanding on what Christ has achieved for us, and what he means for us.

“He himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility.

– Ephesians 2:14

He has made us one, and in doing so has broken down the barriers between us. Today, let us thank God that he made us in his image, that he shows no partiality even when man does, and that through the cross of Christ which primarily unites us to himself, he has also united us to each other.

How Can I Overcome Social Anxiety When Returning To Physical Church?

D. W. Brown
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How Can I Overcome Social Anxiety When Returning To Physical Church?
Prefer to listen? Listen here.

As COVID restrictions have begun to ease, your church may have already started meeting in person again or may be planning to do so soon. How are you feeling about that?

Perhaps you’re an introvert, and as such in the past you haven’t always found it easy to socialise, particularly in large groups such as at church. Over the last year, maybe you have become comfortable with joining church virtually from your living room, and the thought of returning to church in-person makes you nervous.

With in-person services starting again in the coming weeks, I have found it helpful to remind myself of the benefits of meeting with the church family physically, and to think about some practical ways to make this an easier experience. Allow me to share some thoughts on this.

Physical fellowship is a blessing

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” – Matthew 18:20

Although church is the people, not the building, scripture makes it clear that gathering with believers in person is important. It is a way to encourage one another and in doing so to glorify God. In the verse above, Jesus makes it clear that gathering with other believers is wonderful, it’s a powerful thing.

It’s also challenging to think of those Christians in countries where meeting together is illegal. We are so blessed here in the UK that we are not persecuted or prosecuted by authorities for publicly attending church. It’s something that I have definitely taken for granted in the past. I don’t know about you, but for me last year of having church online has put this into perspective.

Serve in small ways

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. – 1 Corinthians 12: 4-6

I love this scripture from 1 Corinthians. Paul is stressing the point that we have different gifts which are of equal importance to the church. That means that even when I feel anxious about interacting with others, I can serve in small practical ways.

Why not consider afresh how you’re serving your church? Is there a rota you could put your name on, a simple way of helping out practically which would ease the burden on others? Speaking personally, I have found that finding practical ways to serve has helped me feel more at home at my church. It has helped to increase my confidence and helped me to see the small, yet important part I’m playing in the church as a whole.

This part of scripture is also a challenge to not attend church with a consumerist attitude of “what can I get out of this?” but rather to think “how can I serve? What can I give to the church?”

Commit anxieties to him

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4: 6-7

I know it’s a predictable point to make in a piece like this, but the importance of constantly and actively committing our anxieties to God cannot be stressed enough. It seems to be one of those things that we’re so used to hearing that it loses its meaning and sounds cliché.

He isn’t a far-off deity who created everything and then left it, he is a loving father, a tender friend, and he cares deeply about your anxieties. As you serve him in the church, in practical ways and through loving others, commit your burdens to him.

He tells us that we will receive the peace of God which surpasses our understanding. That’s a beautiful promise.

Should Christians take the COVID-19 Vaccine?

On Mission
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Should Christians take the COVID-19 Vaccine?

As several COVID-19 vaccines make their way to the general population, many questions have been raised about the ethics, testing and development of the vaccine. With so much information available to the public, it can be difficult to ascertain which information is best to consume and which voices to listen to. As a result of this, misinformation and conspiracy theories are on the rise. On this weeks episode of the #Onthetable, we tackle some of these issues and discuss whether Christians can receive a Covid vaccine with a clear conscience.⠀ ⠀

Join the discussion online using #Onthetable⠀ ⠀

Guests: M.T Omoniyi, Emmanuel Hammond, Jireh Antwi, Aramide Yusuf⠀

Listen on Youtube: CLICK HERE!

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Christians, Coronavirus and the Vaccine FAQ

Chude Obuaya
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Christians, Coronavirus and the Vaccine FAQ

Hi reader, thank you for clicking on this article. As a charity, it is due to the donation from individuals that allow us to share this article with you for free! However the truth is, less than 1% of our readers donate and in order for us to keep on going, we need your help. If you donate just £2 a month, you can help Our God Given mission keep thriving. To donate, click here.

Prefer to listen? Listen here!

It has been over a year now that we have been inundated with various information surrounding coronavirus and the vaccine. With so much information available to the public, it can be difficult to ascertain which information is best to consume. There is real fear surrounding the vaccine, specifically amongst those most vulnerable and it is essential that people have appropriate information they can trust so they can make informed decisions. Whilst this FAQ is by no means exhaustive, its purpose is to give Christians some direction as to how they should approach thinking about the vaccine and conducting themselves both individually and communally during this pandemic. In this FAQ, I ask 3 Christians 7 questions about the vaccine, lockdown and the Church.
*For privacy purposes, I will only refer to the interviews by their first name.*

1. Why did you take the vaccine?

Sarah: I took the vaccine for several reasons. COVID has had a major impact worldwide and as a medical student and disabled woman not only have I gravely been affected by this virus, but I have also witnessed the ramifications that it has had on others and the NHS first-hand. Vaccines have been around for hundreds of years now and there is concrete evidence of how ground-breaking and life-changing they are. Therefore, since the start of this pandemic, I have been praying for a vaccination. Although it isn’t the only way we can make it out of this pandemic, it is a realistic and effective way we can make it out faster and reduce the deaths as much as possible. So once the news of an effective and safe vaccine broke, I couldn’t wait to get it to not only protect myself but also others.

Hannah: Although hesitant at first, I took the vaccine because after some research and pondering I decided it would be the safe thing to do. Also, I believe, for me working for the NHS puts a little more pressure to make a decision quickly.

Josh: I took the vaccine for a few reasons. The first was to get protection from COVID. I also wanted to protect those around me as I would feel guilty if I gave COVID to someone and they had a bad illness as a consequence. Finally, I took it because vaccines seem to be the only way we will get out of the restrictions.

2. How have you coped since the news first broke out that we were in a pandemic and the subsequent lockdowns since

Sarah: Though the news of the pandemic and the constant rise in the death toll was extremely difficult to deal with, initially I coped quite well. I was at university when the pandemic began and got to return to my family home. Because I have quite a big family and I have a great relationship with my siblings, I didn’t struggle with loneliness and was surrounded by love and support which really helped. However, since returning to university and experiencing two more subsequent lockdowns I haven’t been coping as well. I live alone and I am constantly on placement which makes it difficult to stop thinking about COVID. However, something that has helped me from the beginning of this is trusting that God is still and always will be sovereign.

Hannah: I actually did really well in the first two lockdowns, I enjoyed not having to go to events etc. This last one was hard because life seemed to hit me and everyone around me. My typical outlets like travelling and having a physical church community weren’t accessible so it was challenging.

Josh: Back at the start of 2020, I was concerned and anxious about the pandemic and thought the lockdown was necessary. It was a worrying time, and not only was I worried about the pandemic, but all my final year university assessments and lectures were online which impacted my studies. However, I was very fortunate to have very supportive parents and a good home. In the first lockdown, I did feel myself draw closer to God as I was able to spend more time in the word and spending time with Him. However, I did struggle with not being able to see other people. Not being able to go to church in person and not meeting fellow believers was difficult. The importance of fellowship with brothers and sisters is so crucial which I think sometimes I personally took for granted.

3. What will you advise someone who is fearful of taking the vaccine?

Hannah: I would say that if the fear is how quickly the vaccine was made, it is due to the fact that medicine has advanced so much (as we should expect). Also, things that would typically hinder a vaccine from being finalised are money, resources and research participants all of which was readily available for this vaccine. I would also advise that you do your own research, from actual scientists/doctors, not a WhatsApp group or a random pastor. And finally, I say pray about it.

Sarah: I would say they should do as much research as possible and do so with an open mind. Also, beforehand I think it would be wise to pray for God to give them the wisdom to decipher what is true about vaccinations (as there is a lot of false news out there). I strongly believe that if we all looked at the information and the evidence about the vaccinations currently available to us, we would feel more confident about taking it. That being said it is still possible to do all the research in the world and still have fears which is understandable and okay. In this case, I would say that they should reflect on what exact fears they have, pray about them and also seek to find someone, maybe in their church, that they could speak to about these fears.

Josh: The vaccine has been thoroughly tested. [The vaccine] does provide protection against a nasty disease and is the main way we will get back to some normality. Also, those “side effects” everyone is worried about are a lot less severe (if you have any at all), compared to having COVID itself.

4. Did you have any adverse side effects from taking the vaccine?

Josh: I did not have any adverse side effects but had very mild side effects. I felt a bit tired the evening after having the vaccine. I had a mild headache and saw arm swelling the next day but felt fine after that. Nothing dissimilar to what I have had after flu vaccines.

Hannah: I actually did not feel too great after the vaccine for about 30 hours. I felt really heavy and slightly nauseous, I think that the best way to describe it. My arm was also sore, but like I said the symptoms wore off and I felt fine after.

Sarah: Though I know of some people who did get some side effects after taking the vaccine, I didn’t experience anything other than a little bit of arm soreness for a day after both of my doses. That being said, all the side effects I have heard that people experience aren’t anything different to what people get with other vaccinations that have been around for several years. When you think about what the vaccine is doing and how it is working, it makes sense that some people develop side effects.

5. Why do you “trust the science?”

Sarah: I trust the science because I trust in the God that has provided us with it. The studies were conducted so well and by highly skilled and educated individuals. They have dedicated their lives to this profession and I not only trust that they have done a good job, but I am also able to see concrete evidence that they have. I have gone through both the Oxford/AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccination papers and the evidence is overwhelmingly brilliant.

Josh: Because over the years of history, we can see the advances in medicine and healthcare. I have personally have seen the positive effects of medical development and had many flu vaccinations in recent years. Finally, they have been transparent with the releasing of data regarding the vaccines and have been through rigorous trials and tests for them to be approved.

Hannah: I wouldn’t say I “trust the science”, but I would say that over and over again I’ve seen God use science to save lives. I see it in my daily work, research and my own personal life. Life is so much better for us because The Lord has enabled science to be of benefit for us from the medication, we take in our day to day to life-saving resources in ITU. It’s an act of grace.

6. What would you say to people who think the vaccine is the “mark of the beast”?

Hannah: I would say that maybe it’s time to study the word again by themselves and see what the Lord says after that.

Josh: In response to this I would ask what is the difference between this vaccine and other vaccines; why aren’t they also the “mark of the best”. We also have to be wary as people throughout history have made false claims about what the mark of the beast is. Additionally, if the mark of the beast is a physical mark then it is “to be marked on the right hand or the forehead” (Revelation 13:16), whereas the vaccine is a jab in the arm. The bigger point of emphasis around this passage is to do with what the mark of the beast symbolises, the control of heart allegiance and behaviour; is it to the beast or to the Lamb which is Jesus. When we have been saved by grace through faith in Christ we will not be let go of. Plus, as believers, we are given discernment from the Spirit and we would have a clear choice between having the mark of the beast or not and following Christ.

Sarah: I would say that the “mark of the beast” and the events surrounding it described in Revelation simply does not align with what is happening today. By receiving the vaccine, I am not proclaiming that I am worshipping the beast, it is simply to protect myself and others. I think we should be very careful about using scripture incorrectly to back up our views.

7. How do you think the Church can support its members and the community?

Josh: We need to protect our members and the community as we are called to love our neighbours. Therefore, taking the vaccine is one way in which we can do that. We should also encourage others to take it and what better way to encourage people by taking it ourselves. As well, we should follow the governments’ guidelines to be good witnesses even when we have had the vaccine. Passages such as Romans 13 and 1 Peter 2:11-17 talk about how we should submit to the authorities that God has ordained. So, we should follow their guidance on this issue.

Sarah: Churches are great because they are safe spaces where people can express their stances without fear of judgement. I think Churches need to have more open conversations about the COVID vaccines and the repercussions of taking or not taking them. They can go through the evidence together, discuss fears and pray about them. As well as this because churches are filled with people that have different backgrounds and occupations, they are likely to have a lot of professionals that have advanced insight into vaccinations so they should utilise this. These individuals can answer any questions from both a Christian and scientific/medical perspective and ease any fears people may have.

Hannah: The church (well at least mine) has Drs, scientists, healthcare professionals who can be well versed in these topics, I think utilising their knowledge is key. Also referring members to credible research/ people is also important.

As previously stated, the responses to these questions will not satisfy everybody but I do hope that they will assist in making informed decisions when deciding whether to take the vaccine or how to conduct conversations about fears. No matter our various positions on these issues, as Christians, we must be guided and girded by the truth. May this be both our mission and our delight. Soli Deo Gloria!

To find out more about the COVID-19 Vaccine, and whether or not Christians should take it, listen to the latest episode of The On The Table Podcast!


The Dangers of Gossip And Why We Should Avoid It

Oluwaseyi Sobogun
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The Dangers of Gossip And Why We Should Avoid It

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We are inundated with multiple streams of information about the lives of people we do not know. Gossip pages are popular for sharing intimate secrets on a celebrity and we are right there to take it all in. We have become accustomed to gossip as normative conversation and forgotten the dangers it ensues. Why are we so interested in this type of information and what is the allure of gossip that draws us in?

The allure of gossip

The words of a gossip are like tasty bits of food. People like to gobble them up”.

Proverbs 18:8

Even as Christians, we regularly entertain gossip because we like to be ‘in the know’. In having the latest information on the happenings around us and being knowledgeable about people’s business despite not knowing them personally. Whilst we may not consider ourselves gossips, in general, we have to be mindful about what we do with the information we encounter. The habit of gossiping can easily develop from idle conversations about seemingly unimportant issues.

Furthermore, we must be careful about the words we speak because of the power of the tongue (Prov. 18:21). In James 3:5, the tongue is described as “a fire” that once sparked can be as destructive as a forest set ablaze. A fire that can corrupt the whole body and influence the course of one’s life (vs. 6). We are warned about the “untameable tongue”:

but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison

James 3:8

There are no positives to gossip. With the power of an untamed tongue, how much more dangerous are the words of a gossip when ignited. Once the fire of gossip starts, it is hard to put out. Gossip is damaging to reputations and character. 

Warnings on gossip

It is true that not all sparks start fires, so not every conversation or discussion about another person leads to gossip. However, we need to recognise the conversations that have the potential to turn into gossip and know how to deal with the difference. A few verses in the bible that can help, as they display the actions of a gossip, are found in Proverbs:

A gossip betrays confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret

Proverbs 11:13

Gossip happens behind backs, in secret and whisperers; it is not an in front confrontation on an issue. If the topic is centred around a person that is not an active participant in the discussion, it could be gossip.

A false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community

Proverbs 6:19

Gossip is typically rooted in lies, falsified narratives and false witnesses. If the stories being shared have not been confirmed as true, it could be gossip.

A twisted person spreads rumours; a whispering gossip ruins good friendships

Proverbs 16:28

Gossip is hurtful, filled with malice, wicked intent and slander. If the words used are negative, insulting or degrading another person, it could be gossip.

The bible counsels against such things (Col. 3:8, 1 Pet. 2:1, Eph. 4:31) and as we have become new in Christ, we should “put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24). This involves a continuous renewing of the mind (Rom. 12:2) and an active decision to move away from gossip.

Dealing with gossip

It is tempting to engage in gossip or innocently enter conversations that turn into gossip. However, we are warned multiple times in the Bible about this type of behaviour. We must make a conscious effort to avoid slanderous talk, malicious words and those who participate in these types of interactions. Here are a few ways to do so:

Change the conversation – Oftentimes, we can be in normal conversations only for it to take a turn towards gossip. In those moments, we can quickly steer the topic in a different direction with a new edifying focus.

Express your discomfort – Nevertheless, when your attempts at new topics have faltered, it could be time to express your concerns, especially amongst friends. A simple “I do not feel comfortable talking about this” should help to send across your message. 

Walk away from the conversation – Ultimately, if you can see that no good will come of the conversation, simply walk away from it. Whether this is physically, walking away in real life, or virtually, by exiting the chat, closing the app or unfollowing the people. We need to have a firm stance that displays ‘we will not engage’.

Primarily, we are called to love our neighbour as ourselves and gossip does not reflect that. It should have no place in our conversations. We should use our conversations to edify and in sharing the good news, not gossip.

Why Returning to ‘Normal’ Isn’t Something We Should Strive For

Shumi Mararike
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Why Returning to ‘Normal’ Isn’t Something We Should Strive For

Hi reader, thank you for clicking on this article. As a charity, it is due to the donation from individuals that allow us to share this article with you for free! However the truth is, less than 1% of our readers donate and in order for us to keep on going, we need your help. If you donate just £2 a month, you can help Our God Given mission keep thriving. To donate, click here.

Prefer to listen? Listen here!

If you have ever travelled to Morden or Oval Tube Station in London, you may have come across a noticeboard with the “Thought of the Day”. The best of these are wise and practical, putting a spring in your step as you continue your journey. Take 23rd January 2021 for example:

“In the rush to get back to normal, use this time to decide which parts of normal are worth getting back to”

So then, what “normal” do you want to return to? Here are some suggestions based on valuable lessons learned during lockdown.

Balance business with rest

The Bible has piercing words for the lazy person. They are described as “slothful”, (Proverbs 12:24), “sluggards” (Proverbs 6:6) and people destined for poverty (Proverbs 10:4; 14:23; 21:5). There is no excuse for laziness, but some of us work excessively to the detriment of our well-being. God cares about our spiritual and physical health – so should we. God set the template for us at the end of His creative work (Genesis 2:2). This was not a time of rejuvenation, but cessation of work to mark the completion of His good creation (Genesis 1:31). Unlike God, we grow tired. In the Sabbath, He has made provision to overcome fatigue, but ultimately point toward the rest we can find for our souls in the completion of Christ’s redemptive work. This alleviates us from our strivings to attain God’s favour through our works and rest in the finished work of Christ.

“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your male servant, or your female servant, or your livestock, or the sojourner who is within your gates. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested on the seventh day. Therefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

(Exodus 20:8-11)

So then, there remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God, for whoever has entered God’s rest has also rested from his works as God did from his.

(Hebrews 4:9-10)

Checking in on others

The isolation of lockdown can cause our loved ones to be consumed by their negative thoughts and driven into despair. Checking in on their well-being has become all the more vital.  Never under-estimate the impact of your presence and a listening ear via phone call. A simple text message of encouragement can lift their spirit in ways that you may not foresee. Show them that they are loved, be your brother’s keeper. We must not merely be reactive to the latest mental health hashtags and campaigns. This is our civic duty as followers of Christ, selflessly loving others. Go out of your way to serve them and meet their needs habitually.

Anxiety in a person’s heart weighs it down,
but a good word cheers it up.

(Proverbs 12:25)

Kind words are like honey—
    sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.

(Proverbs 16:24)

The greatest among you will be your servant.

(Matthew 23:11)

Valuing physical fellowship

“Don’t it always seem to go that you don’t know what you got ‘til it’s gone.” These lyrics from a Joni Mitchell song, later sampled by Janet Jackson, seem to accurately depict our attitude toward public worship over the past year. The intermittent opening and closing of church has deprived us of the privilege of public worship. Pastors and congregations long to reconvene and attentively sit under the passionate preaching of God’s Word. Voices singing praises unto God in chorus. All this is possible online, but physical gatherings are a more glorious demonstration of the oneness of the church. We best grow and experience the love of Christ amidst the vibrancy of physical fellowship and a shared life in the church. The time for spectatorship at church is over. If there was ever a period to be committed to the life of the local church, it would be post- lockdown. This is a marker of our devotion to God and His people.

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

(Acts 2:42)

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

(Hebrews 10:24-25)

Lockdown is drawing to a close; how will your respond? Will you retreat to harmful practices toward others and self? Will you revert to a low view of public worship? God forbid! Let us draw from what we have learned during this season to make the post- lockdown normal one worth returning to.

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