The U.S. -- and the world -- has been wrestling with issues of racial equality for centuries. In America in recent times, the issues of racism and equality have been particularly at the forefront of our national discourse, with many Christian leaders speaking out against racism and for reconciliation. Ultimately, many Christian leaders have acknowledged that there is much injustice to face and much work to be done, but that the Gospel is essential to true and lasting reconciliation. Here are 10 quotes from Christian leaders on the issues of racism, equality, and what the Church can do to work for justice and unity.

I believe God has so much compassion for the confusion the younger generations are battling with the Church. We’re at a time in history where so much is being exposed in our world–systemic racism, capitalist greed, political warfare and environmental carelessness, to name a few. Unfortunately, the Church is not excluded from the influence of these same systems. Millennials are noticing and calling out for change, and when they don’t see changes in the Church, they leave.

Most pastors will tell you of the importance of small groups. Speaking from personal experience, I know that if someone is connected in a small group, there is a greater likelihood that they'll be involved in a wider mission and more involved within the local church's life. They also have a built-in support system to help them grow in Christ. A recent LifeWay study found what I already knew through personal experience—small groups are important. Scott McConnell summarized the study with these words:

Upheaval envelops our world. Conflict in Eastern Europe could spark a third world war. Violence in Israel brings prophecies to mind. Charismatic leaders operate in oppression and corruption. Religious leaders are exposed as manipulative and sinful.

Have you ever asked yourself why you go to church? There are plenty of scriptures about meeting together, so, maybe it’s out of obedience. Or maybe it’s tradition, or maybe it’s the fear of being accused of not being a good Christian. Maybe you go to church because it’s something to do or it feels like a good thing to have some sort of faith-based support. Maybe you’ve formed good friendships, or you enjoy the programs churches have to offer. Maybe you like being part of a community of like-minded people. Maybe you’ve just always gone and so you continue to go out of habit or routine. 

A solar eclipse is set to occur on April 8, 2024, and it will affect much of North America. As we prepare for the big event, several people are unsure what to expect. Being informed and ready will help you to enjoy an experience that only happens once every several years!

Occasionally I find myself in a conversation with a non-Christian friend. Sometimes, I have to pay close attention to the language I use if the talk turns to things related to God and ultimate reality. I want to be understood, but the normal Christian terms are a foreign language to many people, Christians included. The terms are difficult to use when they don’t communicate.

Often in the quest towards marriage and finding “the one,” something happens. It’s easy to overlook things that may not seem that big of a deal while dating, but these things could be destructive patterns once married. But love doesn’t have to be blind. There’s no reason to settle for unhealthy or harmful relationships, simply to pursue being married.

Saying you live in Sodom would be about like saying you named your kid Judas. Sodom is known most by its immorality. There has been considerable discussion about the nature of the sin which caused Sodom to be destroyed. But do we know anything about the city itself? Have there been any artifacts from this city? 

In a world dominated in many ways by the virtual world, almost more than the physical world, we tend to only focus on children when it comes to limits on social media. Articles and studies on screen time and its effects on growing minds are often expressed, and, in time, adjustments are made, but could it be that adults need these breaks as well? Do you need to take a break from social media?