A Complete View of Inclusion & Representation

Photo by Leighann Blackwood on Unsplash

 

Scripture clearly speaks about the total depravity of the human heart, which means that all our faculties are stained by our sin, corruption, and rebellion. However, this does not imply that we are already as bad as we can be. In this regard, Dr. R. C. Sproul famously said, "Even Hitler loved his mom."

Then, it stands to logic that we humans are capable of doing some good, of producing some beauty—this is what Calvin called social good. This goodness is not enough to obtain salvation. Still, in the final analysis, it is evidence of the generosity and compassion of the Triune God of the Universe. Amid Life, we have proof of the Approaching Glory.

When dealing with the Here and Now, remembering this Warning-Encouragement will help us grow as humble followers of Jesus Christ, God the Son.

Let's consider the desire we see in our country for inclusion and representation, which is not a novel idea; I have heard about representation in church planting circles since the early 2000s.

The warning is that the version of I&R promoted by our heart in its natural (fallen) condition is incomplete and dangerous because it encourages injustice and cruelty.

It is a good idea, a noble desire warped by our corruption.

The encouragement is that because of the Person and Work of Jehovah—which is a central element of the Gospel—we humans can learn what it is like to be included and represented in a way that overcomes all types of differences (cultural, ethnic, political, gender, etc.). His Beauty (Person & Work) is such that He and His Message connected with my heart at the most intimate levels even when I am not living in Judeah in the First Century. I have very little to connect me with the Lord Jesus Christ if I accept the incomplete version of I&R promoted by our sinful hearts: I am not a carpenter, I do not know what it is like to live in the desert, I don't speak His language, and I am sure I do not look like Him. 

And yet..., right?

Church, if we understand I&R correctly in light of the Gospel, it means that you already have all you need to overcome any differences and be hospitable toward those around you in the same way He was hospitable toward you. This hospitality does not mean we must deny the reality of sin - actually, the proclamation of the seriousness of our sin and its consequences is what makes this complete view of I&R just and compassionate - but it should be a constant reminder of the messy pit from which He rescued us and the marvelous light He has placed us under, a reminder that should produce humility in us and move us to imitate Him for His glory and the benefit of the nations.

What do you think? How do you define I&R?

-AV