A Theology of Racial Reconciliation

When tackling an issue like racial reconciliation, which carries with it a number of perspectives and considerations on a human level, it is helpful for me to go back and try to identify what is known and unchanging from God’s word. As I attempted to do this in my study for this sermon, I found a great comfort in realizing that the Lord was thinking about race and had a plan for racial reconciliation way before anybody else. It also reminded me that whatever opinions or ideas any of us form around this topic, the Lord will accomplish his plan, with or without us. Nothing can or will stop his plan. Nothing. The fun part is that he invites us to play a role in his plan!

Book Recommendation

Below I have listed some books and a key passage from scripture that have helped me remember the importance of keeping God’s big picture plan in mind. 

1. The Explicit Gospel (Matt Chandler, Jared Wilson): this book walks through the good news of the gospel on two levels: a personal level and an over-arching grand level. Both are needed in order to properly respond to and understand a God who is both intimate and infinite.
2. According to Plan (Graeme Goldsworthy): this is a little bit more of an academic book, but was the first book I ever read that really helped me to see that the whole Bible is connected from Genesis to Revelation. 
3. Epic (John Eldredge): okay this is just a cool book. It basically does the same thing as the two books above, but in a really cool way, using a lot of fun examples from popular books and movies. It’s very short and easy to read.

Biblical Passage

Luke 24, in my humble opinion, is THE passage for understanding the entire story of the Bible as a unified whole, culminating in Christ. Here are some thoughts/questions for interacting with it:
 

1. How does Jesus help the guys on road to Emmaus and his disciples understand the significance of his death and resurrection? (hint: see specifically v.27 and v.44-45)
2. Why is it important to remember God’s big picture plan when we encounter seasons, situations, or issues that are confusing?
3. What is something confusing in your life right now? Spend some time in prayer asking the Lord for his larger perspective in the midst of what feels confusing.
4. Look for an opportunity this week to encourage someone else in their confusion by pointing them to God’s larger perspective!