Discernment...

Discernment is the ability to make sound judgments, perceive subtle differences, and understand things clearly, especially that which is not obvious. It involves the skill of separating truth from falsehood, right from wrong, or good from bad. In a religious context, it often refers to the ability to perceive and understand the will or activity of God or the difference between spiritual influences. 

Many of us have developed discernment through the slings and arrows of life and our own experiences. Whether that be personal, financial, political, spiritual or emotional on what seems like an hourly basis. Especially now. A constant barrage of information, opinions, policies etc. We are certainly living in a very volatile time Believers. We look to the news, our mentors, pastors, rabbis, teachers, parents. peers, anywhere to get a clear direction on where life and our country are going presently. It's scary, and it's easy to lose control these days. Many are learning the definition of the term "Christian Nationalist", which is often more about a cultural and political identity than a specific theological belief system. It's roots in the U.S. trace back to early European colonists who intertwined religion with governance. It's distinct and is seen as a threat to liberal democracy and religious freedom by many scholars, and the actions they produce are not quite what most of us Believers understand, empathize or advocate. But there are those that certainly do.

We all know the main teachings of Christ include the importance of loving God and one's neighbor, loving your enemies, forgiving others, repenting of sins, serving others, and most important having faith in God. These areas of belief are only developed by years of study and worship, and only after years of studious learning and experience do we develop the eye and ear of true discernment. Am I saying the belief systems in Christian Nationalism are wrong? I am saying that if those systems are not aligned with the words and works of Christ then yes, they are wrong. It is not the will of Christ to infuse Christian identity with national identity. This Christian Nationalist ideology often supports a traditional social order based on gender, sexuality, and family structure, potentially excluding those who don't fit the ideal. This ideology also includes rejection of church-state separation, a specific hierarchy, a divine mandate for example; the U.S has a special, divinely ordained purpose, its laws should reflect a fundamentalist interpretation of the bible. And offers Exclusionary politics, with the implication that only Christians are true Americans, which can be linked to nativism and white supremacy, which overlaps with white Christian power structures.

When you compare both teaching of Christ and CN the distinction is clear. Christian Nationalism undermines democracy, threatens religious liberty, promotes violence, and misappropriates Christianity by using Christian symbols for political gain and nationalism rather than spiritual purposes Christ in great contrast, centered on humility, service to others, and Kingdom of God. Jesus viewed women as fully human, equal to men, and demonstrated this through his teachings and actions, which defied the social norms of his time. And while it's true Jesus never spoke about homosexuality neither did he condemn it. There are many interpretations of his thoughts, but he did say "judge not that you not be judged.

My message to you this Sunday Believers is this; today confusion is not uncommon, use this as an opportunity for deeper faith rather than a sign of failure. Take your questions directly to God, pray for guidance, don't hide your doubts, and listen for clarity. Ground your faith in Jesus' character. Pray for discernment, asking God for the wisdom and clarity to make good decisions and understand what is right, true, and aligned with His will. He is Lord. He is love. He is peace.

S.K. Caraway, Director

www.thesonyakarolfoundation.org

1 John 4:1

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

2 Corinthians 11:13-15

For such men are false apostles, deceitful workmen, disguising themselves as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.

Matthew 10:16

“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.