Dr. Joshua continues the series, "The Kingdom Way - Part 3," emphasizing that pleasing God involves both listening and taking action, and that true change in direction begins with a change in thinking.
In part two of the series titled "The Kingdom Way," Dr. Joshua emphasizes that the teachings of Jesus often challenge conventional wisdom and can be difficult for people to accept. Race - and in particular, race in the church - is not an easy topic to discuss, but difficult topics were not something Jesus, avoided. Jesus was willing to be misunderstood while still conveying important truths. The concept of a “black multiracial church” is a new way of thinking and talking about racial diversity in a Christian context. Like Jesus would explain his parables, Dr. Joshua takes his time explaining this concept in detail, using sociological terms, quotes, and illustrations as well as Biblical passages to help us understand this new concept of church diversity from an African American perspective.
Dr. Joshua introduced a new series "The Kingdom Way", part 1. Although this is a new series, Dr. Joshua summarizes the last two series entitled "The Untapped Power of We" and "Blessed are the Poor in Spirit", in which both series strongly lay foundation for this month's series. Citing Ephesians 3:20, he explains the ways in which our thinking is not like God's thinking and is often different in ways we tend not to consider. In the same way, new blessings require new thinking - His thinking. In the spirit of unity in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:10), Dr. Joshua reiterates Zoe Center's move towards the goal of a "black multiracial church". Since this is a new cultural concept, Dr. Joshua spends time unpacking this direction and the reason for it.
Dr. Joshua concludes the series, "Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit," rooted in Matthew 5:3, which beautifully reminds us that God's favor shines upon those who find themselves destitute, both spiritually and naturally. In times of uncertainty and change, when it may feel as though the rug has been pulled out from under us, we can trust that God is always working to bless and favor those who feel marginalized. As a predominantly African American church in a largely Latino community, we are setting our sights on multilingualism and embracing engagement with our community, acknowledging the vast opportunities ahead. Our ambition also extends to reaching out purposefully to the Asian American community. Engaging with those who may feel like minorities requires intentional strategies rather than mere goodwill. Through our journey, we have confronted the complexities of race in America while celebrating Black history, which provides a vital context for understanding our present. Dr. Joshua also encourages understanding of Black history and recommends the book "From Slavery to Freedom" to gain insight into the cultural and historical context shaping current dynamics. Remember, knowledge empowers us to comprehend the dynamics at play in our world. We would not want to perish for lack of knowledge. God does not leave anyone out, and together, we can foster a community of Christian unity in love and understanding.
In this part (3) of "Blessed are the Poor in Spirit", Dr. Joshua discusses this unconventional series, emphasizing the need for preliminary context before diving into the main material. He highlights the church's demographic makeup as predominantly African American in a diverse community, noting recent initiatives aimed at engaging with local Latino and future Asian American groups. He stresses the importance of intentionality in outreach efforts and acknowledges that while their themes may not resonate with everyone personally, the focus is on moving the whole congregation together. He acknowledges the challenges of discussing sensitive topics, indicating that emotional triggers must be managed before presenting core messages. Dr. Joshua draws a parallel to Jesus’ preparation for his ministry through John the Baptist’s role in readying people for his teachings and uses the book, "Estranged Pioneers: Race, Faith, and Leadership in a Diverse World" by Korie Little Edwards and Rebecca Y. Kim to look at pastors who have led multi-ethnic churches. He utilizes these examples to introduce his own diversity model for Zoe Center.
Dr. Joshua continues to teach on a sensitive topic in "Blessed are the Poor in Spirit," part 2, highlighting the need to address practical realities of faith alongside spiritual principles. He references James 2:15, which maintains the importance of meeting people's physical needs before they can engage with spiritual teachings. Reflecting on the church's context, he notes that while it is predominantly African-American, the church is located in a diverse community that is not primarily African-American. Dr. Joshua admits this is difficult for African-Americans who came to this church for its rich black cultural presence but also recognizes this shift as a part of God's plan and emphasizes the church's commitment to a multilingual vision to better serve the community. This series will explore this challenge as well as present ways in which rich cultural heritage for all can exist in unity and create a win-win.
Dr. Joshua introduces a new sermon series titled "Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit," building on the previous series "The Untapped Power of We." The overarching theme for the year is "One vision, One Voice," emphasizing the importance of collective identity in Christ over individualism. Dr. Joshua highlights the sociological aspect of being one in Christ, defining sociology as the study of human relationships and social institutions. Spiritual and social dynamics must be addressed for true unity and we can't bring people together without the help of the Holy Spirit. The discussion of unity includes the necessity of addressing relationships and sensitive issues, particularly regarding race, as our church seeks to engage diverse communities.
Dr. Joshua continues the series, "The Untapped Power of We," Part 4, highlighting the unique blessings that arise from unity rooted in Christ. He also delves into addressing and overcoming objections that result when initiating conversations about race, emphasizing the importance of grace and understanding in these discussions that will, in turn, lead to unity.
Dr. Joshua continues the series, "The Untapped Power of We," Part 3, focusing on the importance of addressing and eliminating strife swiftly. He also encourages us to embody Christ-like qualities in our daily lives.
Dr. Joshua continues the series, "The Untapped Power of We," Part 2, exploring the nature of division and encouraging us to reflect carefully before we speak.
After reviewing all the series in 2024, Dr. Joshua launches our theme for 2025, "The Untapped Power of We". In Part 1, he inspires the church to live as "we" people in a "me" culture.
