love your neighbor

Racial unity resources

As followers of Jesus, Messiah is committed to learning, growing, and showing love to one another as God has loved us. Together, let’s work on next steps to live the life Christ calls us to lead, to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39).

Statements by the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and the Missouri District of the LCMS

God’s Word rejects racism. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). All are equally created by God. All are equally accountable to God. The sins of all are equally atoned for by Christ. All are equally precious to God. Racial animosity is the result of sin and is sin in itself. Racism is not acceptable in the church. Jesus Himself bids us to love our neighbors as ourselves and do so precisely while rejecting racial preference (cf. Good Samaritan, Luke 10:25-37).
– President Harrison, President of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS)

In spite of all of the advances that we have made in our modern world through science and technology, it is shameful that racism and hatred are still so prevalent in communities across our land. Such attitudes are contrary to God’s Word and our Lord’s call to love our neighbor as ourselves. We read in Proverbs, “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.” (Proverbs 31:8-9) Lutheran Christians have a long history of speaking out for life in all its forms, from the baby inside a mother’s womb to the sick and dying. We are also called to speak out for all who have been victims of racial oppression in our communities.
– President Hagan, President of the Missouri District of the LCMS

Black Voices

The Black Clergy Caucus of the LCMS has issued this statement on the death of George Floyd:

Through the parable of the Good Samaritan, Pastor Keith Haney urges mercy for our neighbors in need:

Rev. Micah Glenn addresses the racism he’s experienced in the church and in society at the 2019 LCMS Youth Gathering:

Two great minds in our church body having an honest, friendly, and pleasant conversation about some really challenging issues. As they said, diversity is hard work. It happens one by one from the inside out:

Clergy Messages

Messiah’s former Senior Pastor Paul Schult is doing an entire message series at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Redwood City, CA on issues of racism, injustice, violence, oppression, and reconciliation. See how God’s Word can guide us in healing. Click the graphic to view his messages:

Biblical Scholarship

Christian scholars have long condemned racism. These resources discuss the issue from a Biblical perspective.

Online Study Resources

Join Rev. Keith Haney on Thursday, June 25 at 7:00 p.m. for “One Nation Under God—Healing Racial Divides.” This Bible Study will meet for 10 sessions over the course of three months. Sign up here:

Rev. Haney’s study can be purchased at this link if you wish to participate at your own pace:

Messiah is committed to being a supporter and ally of all God’s children. We look forward to exploring additional ways we can work alongside our community and nation to show Christ’s love to all.