Black and Reformed

[lmnop9876]

i believe that the old Jewish laws against inter-racial marriage are still good now: Christians are the "new Israel," and the non-believers are described as Gentiles. Christians should not be unevenly yoked with unbelievers. this was the gist of the Jewish laws: a Jew should not marry an idol-worshipper, they did, however, marry non-Jews who converted.

 

[arunma]

i believe that the old Jewish laws against inter-racial marriage are still good now: Christians are the "new Israel," and the non-believers are described as Gentiles. Christians should not be unevenly yoked with unbelievers. this was the gist of the Jewish laws: a Jew should not marry an idol-worshipper, they did, however, marry non-Jews who converted.

I could not agree more. Christians are the chosen seed from the people of Israel. As the true and spiritual children of Israel, we must never mix with Gentiles. At the same time, God will fully bless marriages between any Christians, because in Christ there are no racial distinctions.

It is impossible for us to be one body in Christ, and to still place racial restrictions on marriage. If we are truly one in Christ, then we must not let this theology remain on paper. Biblical theology must be lived out, or else it is worthless.

 

[JM]

Here's a quick article on racial harmony and interracial marriage:

Deuteronomy 7:3-4 and Colossians 3:9-11

My aim today is to argue from Scripture and experience that interracial marriage is not only permitted by God but is a positive good in our day. That is, it is not just to be tolerated, but celebrated. This is extremely controversial since it is opposed by people from all sides.

Interracial marriage was against the law in 16 states in 1967 when the Loving v. Virginia Supreme Court Decision struck down those laws. That is very fresh historically. I was a senior in college. Laws reflect deep convictions, and convictions don’t usually change when laws do.
http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/MostPopular/198_Racial_Harmony_and_Interracial_Marriage/

 

[calmcoolandelected]

Following rmwilliamsll lead, I thought I’d ask what the first impressions of the Reformed/Presbyterian Church was, from our brothers and sisters of colour? My wife is black and is having a hard time feeling comfortable as we move and fellowship more often with Reformed folks, she is always the only person of colour, and is having a hard time adjusting.

Any thoughts? We attended a few Dutch Reformed Churches up here in Canada and both of us were made to feel welcomed, getting over the shoulder glances, and no one even spoke to us. Has anyone else experienced this? I understand this isn't a "Reformed" Church problem, but that's where my wife and I are headed, just thought I'd ask.

Peace,
j

Will post a link (maybe two) after I take my son to school!

CC&E

 

[rmwilliamsll]

I think it a useful exercise to think about how welcome a new person is into our fellowships.

Part of the problem is the "obviousness" of race. Like being fat, or gender or oftentimes wealth, we carry our ethnic origins around with us for everyone to see.

The second problem with the issue is that the reformed churches have a history, and along with the usual alignment of social-political-cultural and religious conservatism, racism is an element of that often a package deal.

I don't know the potential solution, i certainly can't even well define the problem. But i know from dear friends that were inter-racial marriage (as well as a son) that even in the church they had unwarranted problems.

I know from my reading on black presbyterians before the War of Southern Seccession in the US that Presbyterians have not been in the forefront of integrating our churches but have long tarried and debated the issues.

it is a worthwhile discussion and those voices from the trenches, those who are the objects of some criticism, ought to be listened to and their experiences valued.

 

[McWilliams]

What's color got to do with it?

I would suggest just being who you are in Christ, friendly and approachable with others and then just continue on, hoping that others will come to see you are genuine, love the Lord and that they will be enriched by your joining them to worship!

Its also important to remember that we can only be responsible for our own feelings, actions and behaviors! If they are unfriendly then have obviously have a need to draw closer to the Lord themselves and will benefit from continued sharing with you and your wife! Let God be God and just follow on His way!
What a witness opportunity there is in that place, right? What does holiness look like? Show them!

God bless you both!!

 

[JM]

Excellent video on being black and Reformed/Calvinist.
Theological Imperialism and the Black Community on Vimeo
http://vimeo.com/24840694