Why Christians Must Not Be Silent In the Wake of Charlottesville Violence

by | Sep 1, 2017 | Citizenship

It’s been three weeks since the ‘Unite the Right’ rally clashed with Antifa and deadly violence ensued in Charlottesville, Virginia. I have been asked several times if NFA has a position on this tragedy and how this has impacted my family.

Many in the community know my family. They know we are a multi-racial family. They know we have personally experienced racism. They also know I’m a social conservative committed to advancing Family, Freedom and LIFE.

Today, I want to share from my heart.

Events that took place on Aug. 11th and 12th with torch-wielding white supremacists at the University of Virginia, chanting “Jews will not replace us” and “blood and soil,” followed by white nationalists marching through Charlottesville for the “Unite the Right” rally that led to the tragic murder of Heather Heyer, is more than a “political” issue.

If we get stuck making this a liberal versus conservative conversation, we all lose. This is a LIFE issue.

As followers of Christ we have a message of HOPE that affirms that each one of us is fearfully and wonderfully created according to Psalms 139. Not one person is a mistake. God celebrates the unique life of every individual and so should we!

The world is watching the faith-community to see our response. We’re in an age where silence communicates agreement. Christians can’t be silent.

We must recognize that each of us has a different life experience and it impacts our worldview. In our differences, we must be committed to being winsome in our response as we condemn bigotry, racism, and white supremacy.

Proverbs 15:1 challenges me personally, and I hope it will you; “that a mild answer turns away wrath but a harsh word stirs up fury.”

Each of us bears personal responsibility to examine our hearts and be agents of change.

Let’s commit to being good listeners and asking thoughtful questions, even of people with whom we disagree. Ask them what their perspective is and why. Look for opportunities to share your insight and how you reached your conclusion. Don’t be consumed by the media sound bites. Commit to pray for both our political and spiritual leaders.

In closing, Proverbs 16:21 provides good advice: “The wise in heart are called discerning, and gracious words promote instruction.”

Karen Bowling

Karen Bowling

Executive Director
When Karen isn't fulfilling her duties as the Executive Director of NFA, leading a women's Bible study, or coordinating a prayer meeting, she's usually with her five grandchildren that keep her busy, laughing, and young at heart.