CONCLUSION, REFLECT, CHALLENGE

CONCLUSION:

In Christianity, we often emphasize obedience. It is important, but we rarely talk about what happens when the rules before us contradict the character, commands, or principles of God. What does it look like when civil disobedience becomes an expression of true obedience to God?

This is a nuanced and challenging conversation. It calls for integrity, discernment, and community. You may not be in a position now where you must conscientiously object or resist an unjust order, but Scripture shows that there may come a time when such courage is necessary. Many in the past have already faced it.

We don’t have to wait for a great conflict to rise to engage in advocacy for our community now. We can make a habit of seeking out opportunities to stand for those who have less power. The courage Shiphrah and Puah displayed is a courage worth learning from, remembering, and cultivating within ourselves.

REFLECT:

Reflect on a time when you witnessed injustice, whether large or small. How did you respond, and what does that reveal about your readiness to stand in the gap the way the midwives did?

CHALLENGE:

Take time to learn about Adventism’s close connection to activism during its early days. A great resource: Adventism and Political Activism: A Symposium on the History of Adventist Social and Political Engagement can be found on the Loma Linda University School of Religion website. https://religion.llu.edu/event-videos