A recent Pew Research study discovered that 6 out of 10 adults in America believe racial tension is a major problem in this country-and one that is only growing worse. Today, people across the nation are dealing with tensions between blacks and whites, and often this tension breaks out into violence. People are talking about the issue; but sadly, the church has been reluctant to engage in the discussion. In God and Race, pastors Wayne Francis and John Siebeling seek to provide a non-threatening means for pastors, church leaders, and churchgoers to start to dialogue about this important issue. Wayne Francis, lead pastor of The Life Church in New York, speaks to the "Black Fist" part, showing how the racism that blacks have faced have led to many solidarity movements that have served to increase racial tensions in our country. John Siebeling, lead pastor of The Life Church in Memphis, Tennessee, speaks to the "White Knuckles" part, showing how many whites today are "white-knuckling" it to try and hold on to old (and wrong) ways of thinking . . . or are just tensing up when approached with the issue and hoping that it will just go away. In this study (study guide sold separately), Wayne and John show how neither black fists or white knuckles are the answer to the problem, but that what is needed are open hands, open hearts, and open minds. They do this by discussing seven key statements that they believe the church needs to acknowledge today: Racism is a problem The gospel is the solution It's more than just a spiritual problem It's complicated White people must understand and acknowledge the sin of slavery and mistreatment of black people Black people in turn have to forgive white people of previous and present injustices, while also not harboring hatred and racism toward white people Unless we make a solid intentional choice to connect, understand, reach, and love one another, we will remain divided In the Gospels, we see how the crowds came to Jesus because he talked about real issues and was not afraid to engage in the important issues of his day. In the church of today, we need to be doing the same, for it is only by recognizing, addressing, and openly dialoguing about the racial tension in America that we can together begin to work toward real solutions. Wayne and John have no presumption in this series that they are going to solve the issue. Rather, their goal is to have churches follow their example and start the conversion in their congregations. Designed for use with God and Race Study Guide (sold separately).

Let Go of What Holds You Back and Fulfill God's Purpose Far too many people are not living up to God's best for them, limited by habits and hang-ups from which they just can't seem to break free. Unforgiveness, addictive behavior, unhealthy financial patterns--limitations come in all shapes and sizes. Breaking free from any of them starts the same way: by walking in the truth. Jesus died on the cross to set us free and enable us to experience life to the full; anything less than that is not God's best. If we are followers of Christ, freedom is not just a benefit to embrace if we choose; it's a responsibility we are called to. Pastor and author John Siebeling helps readers connect the dots between what they read in God's Word and their everyday lives. Each chapter highlights a specific hang-up or habit that holds people back, explains what God says about it, and points to a way forward in freedom. Practical advice and suggestions for next steps help readers see how to implement changes that give them the traction they need to move forward.

How you-and your church community-can play a part in ending racism. Pastors John Siebeling and Wayne Francis-whose thriving congregations are the embodiment of diversity-have pooled their insights and experiences to help others have conversations about racism. Many churches and leaders have sought their counsel, hoping to emulate their success, and yours can too. This study guide has everything you need for a full Bible study experience, including: The study guide itself-with discussion and reflection questions, video notes, and a leader's guide. An individual access code to stream all five video sessions online. And the physical DVD. God and Race provides a non-threatening means for pastors, church leaders, and churchgoers to speak to each other about this difficult and pervasive problem. In this study, Wayne and John show how neither black fists nor white knuckles are the answer to the problem, but that what is needed are open hands, open hearts, and open minds. Together, they: Examine the White-Black tension from both perspectives. Answer all the uncomfortable questions we're afraid to ask-regarding ourselves, our families, our work and relationships, and the church. Discuss seven key statements that they believe the church needs to acknowledge today-including that racism is a real problem, that it's more than just a spiritual issue, and that the Gospel is the solution. Provide practical steps anyone can take to become part of the solution. In the Gospels, we see how the crowds came to Jesus because he talked about real issues and was not afraid to engage in the important issues of his day. In the church of today, we need to be doing the same: only by recognizing, addressing, and openly dialoguing about the racial tension in America can we begin to work toward real solutions together. Streaming video access code included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2027. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.

How you-and your church community-can play a part in ending racism. Pastors John Siebeling and Wayne Francis-whose thriving congregations are the embodiment of diversity-have pooled their insights and experiences to help others have conversations about racism. Many churches and leaders have sought their counsel, hoping to emulate their success, and yours can too. This study guide has everything you need for a full Bible study experience, including: The study guide itself-with discussion and reflection questions, video notes, and a leader's guide. An individual access code to stream all five video sessions online (you don't need to buy a DVD!). God and Race provides a non-threatening means for pastors, church leaders, and churchgoers to speak to each other about this difficult and pervasive problem. In this study, Wayne and John show how neither black fists nor white knuckles are the answer to the problem, but that what is needed are open hands, open hearts, and open minds. Together, they: Examine the White-Black tension from both perspectives. Answer all the uncomfortable questions we're afraid to ask-regarding ourselves, our families, our work and relationships, and the church. Discuss seven key statements that they believe the church needs to acknowledge today-including that racism is a real problem, that it's more than just a spiritual issue, and that the Gospel is the solution. Provide practical steps anyone can take to become part of the solution. In the Gospels, we see how the crowds came to Jesus because he talked about real issues and was not afraid to engage in the important issues of his day. In the church of today, we need to be doing the same: only by recognizing, addressing, and openly dialoguing about the racial tension in America can we begin to work toward real solutions together. Streaming video access code included. Access code subject to expiration after 12/31/2027. Code may be redeemed only by the recipient of this package. Code may not be transferred or sold separately from this package. Internet connection required. Void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Additional offer details inside.