Epilogue: almost home

Dr. Perkins closes his book with the "Epilogue: Almost Home." In this final chapter he writes "We are at a pivotal moment in history, and the things that are happening now reveal how much work is left to be done. The struggle for reconciliation is not going to be won in the streets. It's going to be won be believers in Jesus Christ who choose to live out the truth of the gospel" (pp. 173-174). He challenges the CHURCH to keep on moving forward. 

“The Church must speak out with one voice against bigotry and racism. We have been too quiet. The time is now. A platform has been placed in front of us and we must speak with clarity and truth. We’ve made a mess of things, but there is a path forward. It will require us to hold fast to his vision for one church and the biblical truth of one race. We need to lament our broken pass and be willing to make some personal confessions about our own part in this mess. Then will have to be willing to forgive and move toward true repentance. We must be committed to the fight until a battle for reconciliation is one. And we must never forget that our power is not in guns, weapons, or armies. Our power is on our knees before our God" (pg. 174).

“If my people, who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land" (II Chronicles 7:13,14).

A Time to Reflect ~ A Time to Respond

Questions from the study guide in the book as you make the decision to walk the path of reconciliation. 

· How would you define biblical reconciliation?

· How does Christ priestly prayer and John 17endorse the effort to make the church multicultural?

· What is your understanding of race?

· What is lament and why is it such a loss practice among believers today?

· Are you conscious of white privilege, or do you feel that it is a myth?

· What does it mean to say that forgiveness is in the DNA of every Christian?

· If calling a person by name communicates respect and acceptance, how can you put the simple practice into action?

· Do you see yourself as someone who is engaged in the battle for reconciliation? Why or why not?

· What are your own personal heart issues that need to be placed on the altar in the area of reconciliation?

· What is the connection between the love of God and reconciliation in the body of Christ?

Will you accept the call to make a difference? Read John's closing words as you consider your part.

“Every one of us has a crucial part to play in this story of reconciliation. I know what my part is. I will preach the message of biblical reconciliation until he calls me home. I will stand on the wall to encourage and remind others that the great work is not in vain. I will tell the story until my last dying breath. That’s my part. What is your part? What is it that God has specifically gifted you to do in this battle for a biblical reconciliation? Whatever it is, I beg you to do it as unto God until your last day" (pp. 175-176).

With love,

Dr. John Perkins

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In the 2020 November edition of World Magazine, Dr. Perkins was honored as Daniel of the Year. After reading his bio in the magazine, you will certainly agree Dr. Perkins is the right choice in this tempestuous time. Now at age 90 his  "refusal to hate" is an example we all need to, we all MUST follow.

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Bob Yawberg  and I had the privilege of meeting Dr. John Perkins at a pastor's conference in the late 90's in Arizona.  He was one of the speakers and his message then of "loving one another" is still a message to be heard today. He came to our hotel room and prayed with us. It was so evident that this humble man of God truly lived what he preached. We are together one Church, one race, and one blood held together by the common bond of love. Kevin

"One Blood" by John M. Perkins

Front page Button Photo - Ronald Pollard for World Magazin9