Christian Conversations on Race: Embracing Unity, Grace, and Understanding

In the past ten years, our society has experienced a tumultuous journey when it comes to issues of race. From Trayvon Martin to George Floyd, from Charlottesville to national-anthem kneeling, the fabric of our Reformed world has been torn apart. Our once-unified Reformed evangelicalism has splintered into groups that struggle to partner with each other, let alone understand each other. This has led to a dysfunctional way of thinking and talking about race, where many of us have adopted positions simply because they are not held by the other side. In this article, we will explore four postures for Christian conversation about race, and how we can engage in a more thoughtful and understanding manner.

**Embodied: Seeing the Person, Not Just the Argument**

In our increasingly digital world, it is easy to forget that we are embodied creatures. We interact with others online as avatars, rather than as real human beings. This disconnect can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Men often hate each other because they fear each other; they fear each other because they do not know each other; they do not know each other because they cannot communicate; they cannot communicate because they are separated."

When it comes to conversations about race, social media platforms often exacerbate the problem. These platforms encourage two-dimensional thinking and reward slander and belligerence. Instead of engaging in genuine conversation, we become mouthpieces for our positions, unable to truly listen and learn from others. To bridge this gap, it is important to seek out face-to-face conversations and interactions. When we see the person behind the argument, it becomes much harder to dismiss their perspective and much easier to find common ground.

**Fallen: Recognizing Our Own Blind Spots**

The doctrine of the fall reminds us that we are all fallen creatures, prone to sin and ignorance. Too often, we are quick to point out the faults of others while ignoring our own. But the doctrine of the fall calls us to humility and self-reflection. We must recognize that we all have blind spots and biases, and that we can learn from others, even those we may disagree with. Instead of hurling blame, we should approach conversations about race with a willingness to examine our own hearts and minds.

This doesn't mean that everyone is equally guilty or that all perspectives are equally valid. But it does mean that we should approach these conversations with a posture of humility and a willingness to learn. We should be open to the possibility that we may need to change our own beliefs and actions. By recognizing our own fallenness, we can create an environment where genuine dialogue and understanding can take place.

**Redeemed: Extending Grace and Forgiveness**

As Christians, we believe in the power of redemption. We have been forgiven much by God, and we should extend that same grace and forgiveness to others. In conversations about race, it is important to remember that we are all sinners in need of redemption. We should not approach these conversations with a spirit of condemnation, but with a spirit of love and understanding. We should be willing to listen to others' perspectives, even when they challenge our own beliefs.

This does not mean that we should compromise on biblical truth or ignore injustice. But it does mean that we should approach these conversations with a spirit of reconciliation and a desire for unity. We should seek to build bridges, rather than walls, and to find common ground where possible. By extending grace and forgiveness, we can create an atmosphere where healing and understanding can take place.

**United: Embracing Our Common Identity in Christ**

Finally, as Christians, we are united in Christ. Our true identity is found in him, not in our political affiliations or cultural backgrounds. In conversations about race, it is important to remember that we are part of a larger body of believers, and that our unity in Christ should be our guiding principle. We should strive to put aside our differences and find ways to work together for the common good.

This does not mean that we should ignore the reality of racial injustice or avoid difficult conversations. But it does mean that we should approach these conversations with a spirit of unity and a desire to understand and learn from each other. We should be willing to set aside our own agendas and preferences for the sake of the gospel. By embracing our common identity in Christ, we can find the strength and courage to address the issues of race with humility and grace.

**Conclusion**

In the past ten years, our society has experienced a significant divide when it comes to conversations about race. As Christians, it is important that we approach these conversations with a different perspective. We should seek to understand and learn from each other, rather than simply trying to win an argument. By embracing our embodied nature, recognizing our own blind spots, extending grace and forgiveness, and embracing our common identity in Christ, we can engage in conversations about race in a way that reflects the love and unity of Christ. Let us strive to be healers of breaches, reconcilers of honest but prejudiced men, and unifiers of the children of God that are needlessly divided from each other.