Christianity.

A faith system built around a man likely of Arab origin who lived in Egypt and Israel.

A faith system whose earlier origins lie in the Hebrew people who lived in a wide range of what are modern Middle Eastern and African countries.

A faith system whose own Scriptures share messages like these:

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me — watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.”

• Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)

“I looked again. I saw a huge crowd, too huge to count. Everyone was there — all nations and tribes, all races and languages. And they were standing, dressed in white robes and waving palm branches, standing before the Throne and the Lamb and heartily singing.”

• Revelation 7:9-10 (MSG)

This is what Christianity is. It is a faith system for the multitudes. It is hope for all. It is inclusive. It is loving. It is forgiving. It is charitable. So, why, in so many people’s minds, is Christianity limited to the very white, relatively young American understanding of it?

Christianity is not the white man’s religion

Christianity can be a white man’s religion, but it is not the white man’s religion. You follow? It is absolutely for white people just as much as it is for people of other skin colors. However, the American church in large still needs to catch up on this concept.

Sure, a lot of people will verbally affirm that Christianity is for everyone, but their actions cry otherwise. When you say you love Jesus but then hate, hurt and condemn people who simply say that their lives should matter regardless of their skin color, you are not demonstrating Christianity according to the Bible. When you do this, you represent a religion of culture and racial identity that America is painfully trying to grow out of. 

The sooner that the American church can shed its prejudices, the better we as a nation can continue to heal and grow.

Centerpoint Church is ready to walk with you on your faith journey

At Centerpoint, our community believes in purpose and passion, and we would love to walk with you on your journey in finding yours. We are currently going through a new sermon series titled “To Hell With Normal.” It’s all about redefining what we consider normal in life as we seek to make our lives more like the way Jesus would have them to be. 

Do you want to grow in your faith or are you simply curious about who this Jesus guy is? You’re not alone. We encourage you to listen to our series online and welcome you to come to one of our Sunday morning services in Valrico, Florida.