Should a Christian be involved in protests?

Answer

To protest something is to express disagreement with an idea or action. However, the term as a noun typically denotes a loosely organized group of individuals publicly and vehemently demonstrating against a particular policy or situation. Protests are generally of a political nature and can vary from peaceful sit-ins to unlawful rioting. In the United States, the First Amendment in the Bill of Rights ensures the “right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.” Therefore, for Christians in America, engaging in peaceful protests is a right protected by our Constitution. Taking part in a peaceful protest does not violate the law. However, legality does not equate to morality. Rioting is always inappropriate, but is it appropriate for Christians to participate in peaceful protests?

Arguably, most significant changes in laws or governments have originated from some form of protest. Individuals became dissatisfied and united with like-minded citizens. Together, they advocated for change and endeavored to enhance an intolerable situation. A pivotal event in the formation of the United States is a historical protest known as the Boston Tea Party. The Protestant Reformation stands out as one of the most renowned protests in world history. Without Martin Luther’s bravery and conviction, the errors and misconduct of the Roman Catholic Church might have persisted unchecked. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, spearheaded by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was a protest against unjust, discriminatory laws. This protest instigated crucial changes that helped reduce racial discrimination in the public sphere. Protests can have positive or negative implications depending on the issue and the manner in which the protest is conducted.

An evident instance of a protest gone awry is the crowd in Pilate’s court incited to cry out, “Crucify Him!” and condemn Jesus to the cross (Matthew 27:15-26). Just like many mob protests.

Yes, it had less to do with justice or lawfulness than with disinformation and ill intent (see Acts 19:23-41 and Acts 21:26-36).

The Scribes and Pharisees of Jesus’ day used an uninformed mob to advance their selfish agenda. History teaches us to be cautious of rallying points that control the masses. Those points may seem righteous on the surface, but evil motives often drive them. Mob-think is a powerful weapon, and protests can be destructive and dangerous when influenced by evil minds. Recent protests in America are associated with the Black Lives Matter movement. While claiming to champion the rights of black Americans, the underlying agenda of this organization is anti-family and anti-Christian.

Anger at the abuse of power is often the spark that ignites the flames of protest. Passionate people can be swept up in a mob mentality before they know it and find themselves joining causes without close examination. Before a Christian gets involved in a protest, he or she should consider these questions carefully:

1. Is this a worthy cause?

2. Would Jesus support the convictions behind this cause?

3. Will my participation violate any legitimate laws?

4. Do I know the real motives behind this protest, and can I support those motives?

5. What message will my involvement send to people outside this protest?

6. Am I being used as a pawn in a hidden agenda I would not otherwise support?

7. Is this protest being used as an excuse for violence, destruction, or other forms of evil?

8. Is this protest the best way to further the message I want to proclaim?

9. What do I expect to be the result of this protest?

10. How will I treat those who do not join me in this protest?

Every decision we make should support God’s call for us to make disciples «Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father

er, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: », (Matthew 28:19) and glorify God «Whether therefore you eat, or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. », (1 Corinthians 10:31). Whether we are considering a job offer, a relationship, or a protest, our primary focus should be those two objectives. While we should strive to improve the places where we live «And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray to the LORD for it: for in its peace you shall have peace. », (Jeremiah 29:7), it is easy to become engrossed in worldly matters. We must keep our goals in mind. If a protest contributes to making disciples and glorifying God, then it may be a just pursuit. However, if involvement in a protest goes against God’s law or undermines our Christian witness, then it cannot be pleasing to God.