Last week, I listened to this sermon from 10th Presbyterian, which was based on Colossians 3:11:
Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free; but Christ is all, and in all.
The sermon explained that humans naturally and sinfully show partiality. We like to be with people that are most like us. We like to stay in our comfort zones. We create barriers, distinguishing between classes, occupations, races, and age groups. When we set up unbiblical barriers, we create disunity. This may hinder the spread of the gospel message and the glory of God.
My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? – James 2:1-4
But Praise be to God, for He transcends the man made boundaries which we have erected.
Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! – Psalm 133
This makes me wonder: why would we try to split up churches by race?
I need to be careful in what I say here: I am not criticizing all racially based churches, for perhaps God has given a church a special mission to reach a particular people group with the Gospel. This is particularly effective when there are language barriers. But God would have us consider why we do the things we do and how we can most effectively serve Him.
I have a few questions to ask concerning cliques in churches. These may be questions of wisdom and prudence (in distinction from questions of morality), but my hope is that these questions can shed light on wrongful attitudes that we have that need change. The heart of my questioning is a motivation for effective gospel service and a church that reflects God’s glory. Consider these pragmatic questions:
1. Is your church effectively fulfilling its mission? (What is its particular mission?) Are you playing a part in that mission? Are you effectively serving those God has already placed around you?
2. Are you closing the door on windows of opportunity? Are you afraid to get out of your comfort zone? For those that go to racially based churches: Would it be easier for you to invite your co-workers, neighbors, and friends to a church that was not racially based?
3. What would God have you do to maximize opportunities for your growth, fellowship, and ministry? What do you base your fellowship with other Christians around? Is it Christ or is it simply matters of small importance? Are you uncomfortable around “different” Christians? Can you relate to and serve people who are not like you?
The whole world needs to hear the gospel. This is primarily through the ministry of local churches. Let us consider how we can proclaim the gospel most effectively. Soli deo gloria.
