Published on March 17, 2024, 12:59 am

Discussions surrounding equity have come to the forefront of social justice movements, defining it as equality of results, as opposed to equality, which suggests equal treatment. In the realm of social justice, this idea is expressed through initiatives such as affirmative action, race-based incentives and positive discrimination. This approach does not treat all individuals equally and manifests in concepts like wealth redistribution and intersectionality; concepts that diverge greatly from Christian teachings.

Despite the contradictions with biblical philosophy posing as something morally sound, many Evangelicals knowingly or unintentionally support this ideology. A well-known proponent is Matt Chandler, a prominent pastor of a Southern Baptist mega church who famously stated that he would select an under-qualified candidate based on racial background over a more qualified individual.

Conversely, the trending wave among evangelicals isn’t rooted in sharing Gospel but rather in addressing cultural issues with an aim to maintain relevance within society and promote growth within declining religious denominations. This trend is evident among Southern Baptists spanning across seminaries to independent churches and mission boards.

For instance, The Tennessee Baptists Mission Board (TBMB) has incorporated hiring practices which favor diversity over merit. Their “committee preferences for nominations” unabashedly reflect preference towards ethnicity and gender over qualifications. While the Bible advocates against showing partiality these institutions seem unbothered by biblical guidelines.

Existing amidst fluctuating norms around identity politics marked by alarming statistical revelations reflecting 7.6% of U.S adults identifying as LGBTQ+, traditional Christian values become analogous to a canary in the coal mine acting as an indicator of potential danger or threat.

This societal transformation isn’t restricted to sexual identities; pop stars such as Taylor Swift are being commended for uniting Christians suggesting a peculiar fascination within evangelical circles towards popular culture icons.

Moreover, figures like Jermell Witherspoon leading Atlanta’s “Enlightened Path Ministry” are emerging as controversial characters who blend prosperity gospel with modern interpretations, leading followers to questionable paths.

In forthcoming years, the traditional Christian viewpoint will likely experience further conflict with the increasing acceptance of sexual permissiveness and evolving societal norms.

As reliable news in such a crucial era continues to impact believers’ lives dramatically, trusted news platforms strive to provide real news which not only highlights these ever-changing cultural landscapes but also presents a holistic understanding from a Christian worldview.