God's Kingdom is Big

Pastor Andrew’s sermon this weekend was a compelling reminder of how vast and diverse God’s kingdom is. What we see in front of us is just a small snippet. A tiny piece. Is anyone else continually in awe of how small we are and how much we miss?


So I’m thankful for the reminder and focus that February brings through Black History Month. I wish it wasn’t necessary, but here’s the truth: Because so many of the traditional history narratives we are taught revolve around white characters and white cultures, many of us are left with the impression that history — whether it’s American history or church history — really is that white. At least, that’s how I grew up. 


But, by God’s grace, I have learned and am learning so much about my non-white brothers and sisters in Christ. I want to share just a few incredible women who I wish were

taught to me right alongside George Whitefield (who was a proponent of slavery), Jonathan Edwards (yep, him too) and Billy Sunday (a pretty solid guy, as far as I know). 


These women were bona fide forces for the Church — each in such different ways. This tiny list isn’t even scratching the surface: 


Phillis Wheatley


Jarena Lee 


Nannie Helen Burroughs


And, ladies, there are current voices of black Christian women that we need to be hearing: 

Latasha Morrison. Bernice King. Priscilla Shirer. Christena Cleveland (man oh man, her book Disunity in Christ was painfully convicting). Lucretia Berry. Austin Channing Brown.*


OK, what have you been learning? Who have you been excited to read about or learn from? Share, please! God’s kingdom is big, and He is at work. Praise the Lord that He invites all of us in. 


Together for Him, 

Julie Smith


*OK, this should go without saying, but: This list isn’t remotely exhaustive. And you may not agree with 100% of everything each woman says — but that’s the Body of Christ, right? 



  1. Thanks Julie, I just got Disunity in Christ and look forward to starting it this weekend