Collectively, we in the US evangelical church are eager to point out the wrongs of people with whom we do not identify or associate, people we consider unrighteous and may even count “the enemy.” Collectively, we are quite sure that if Christians who think like us can get into places of influence in all realms of our society, everything will change for good.

For a century after the Civil War, Christians in the South held places of influence in pretty much every area of culture. They even called the region, “Our Southern Zion.”

Certainly, a significant percentage of the population went to church. Many openly acknowledged Jesus as their Savior. More than a few sought to live truly godly lives.

But corporately, did the church culture in the white-ruled South in 1890 and 1920 and 1960 look like Jesus? Did the region my ancestors populated look like God’s kingdom on earth? Did their influence produce … widespread awakening? States characterized by justice, mercy, and genuine godliness? Churches filled with God’s life and power? Communities known for selfless love?

If we want to address the corporate sins of the nation, we must do it God’s way. And to begin, we must sincerely, thoroughly, address our own personal sin issues and the corporate sins of the church.

If we would cooperate with God in changing cultures and nations, we must first cooperate with him in removing the oppressive yokes from around our own necks.

Adapted from We Confess! The Civil War, the South, and the Church