A Message to the OCU Community from the President

We are living during a time of profound hurt, anger, frustration, and, for many, a time of deep disappointment and despair. It has become apparent that, as a nation, we need to do more than lament the overwhelming evidence of systemic racism. We need to act with courage and perseverance in the face of this pattern of evil. We know that any act of racism, violence, and injustice are inconsistent with the heart of God. As Christians, we must proclaim the message of Christ’s redemption and reconciliation to the world. Scripture is very clear that all people are created in the image of God and inherently bear immeasurable value and worth. Our community should carry the priorities of the Kingdom of God, in which the dignity of each person is honored, and godly justice is implemented. 

We believe that it is possible to support both the peaceful protestors calling for change within the systems of power to eradicate racism, and also support the vast majority of law enforcement officers who do not engage in acts of police brutality but serve honorably protecting all people. We believe the Bible teaches us that favoritism and racism are wrong and that a system that treats our brothers and sisters of color with different outcomes is sinful. We also believe that while the Bible condemns stealing, looting, and violence, it also promotes righteousness and justice (Psalm 33:5; 89:14; 97:2; Micah 6:8). And this all points us to forgiveness and grace, which are required resources if we hope to be reconciled to God and each other.

God does not leave us in despair or without hope. By its nature and mission, Ohio Christian University instills hope of a life hidden in Christ that makes all things new. Facing a continuing intractable problem like systemic racism, we have to do what we do best: educate. And educate from a Biblically grounded Christian worldview. The failure of our increasingly secularized approach to politics, journalism, and education is on full display for the world to watch. We are calling on our government officials to do their job: to protect life and liberty for ALL the citizens of America. In the recent cases of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and many others - this clearly did not happen.

We need to recommit to the task of educating ourselves and our students on the Biblical causes and cures of racism. We need to continue the difficult conversations we have been having the past few years and continue to make the appropriate decisions those conversations bring to light.

Finally, we must return to the axiom that Christ taught – which is to “love our neighbor as ourselves” – after, of course, we first “Love God with all our hearts.” In order for change to occur – real change – we must learn to love each other. “I believe very firmly that you can’t lead the people if you don’t love the people — all the people.” (Sen. Cory Booker, D-NJ). 

This, indeed, is the foundation on which to rebuild our broken institutions.