I AM a Man: I AM a Judge

via TJC

“But Gideon told them, “I will not rule over you, nor will my son rule over you. The Lord will rule over you.”” ~Judges 8:23

The judges of Israel were leaders ordained by God. His Spirit rested on them (Judges 3). When Israel followed the judge, the nation experienced peace. When it rebelled, the nation did “evil in the eyes of the Lord”. Ultimately, the Israelites rejected God’s plan—the judges—and demanded a king.

Like the Israelites, our society (the church included) has demanded a king over God. Among other things, we’ve idolized culture, national identity, political parties, law enforcement and individuals as our king. Only the King can be King.

The murder of Tyre Nichols in Memphis is the latest example. It won’t be last, nor will it be the tipping point. When Good Cops protect Bad Cops, credibility and trust are lost, and people run for cover…and rightly so. Though the problem is deeper, the solution is simpler. Our problem is idolatry. Many of the churches we sit in idolize our country’s culture: patriotism, independence, self-sustainment, etc. None of these are bad in and of themselves, but they are all sinful when put ahead of God, love, and compassion for your neighbor. Kingdom culture always bears good fruit. American culture will ultimately rot. We are Kingdom Men in the eyes of the Lord! We have to tear down these idols and destroy the Asherahs.

Yes, all lives matter. But Paul emphatically told Peter, to his face, that Gentile lives mattered! So until Kingdom Men of all stripes can affirm, without hesitation or discomfort, that Black lives matter (as an affirmation. I’m not talking about the political org here. Though they started with the same affirmation and still got pushback before they dove into political ideology). How can we judge and hold people and systems accountable the way that God instructs?

Daily Battle Order:

If the pastors and elders in your church have not affirmed in plain language, unequivocally from the pulpit that Black lives matter. Boldly inquire where they stand (but also be ready to explain where you stand)! I know I’m glad that Paul did so on our behalf.