Ep. 331 - The Church’s Role in the Fight Against Human Trafficking
Today Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar are talking about human trafficking, a deeply troubling issue that must be recognized for its severity. More people are enslaved today than during the transatlantic slave trade, with an estimated 21 million victims being trafficked for exploitation. Traffickers profit from this exploitation, and it happens globally, every day. Addressing suffering is not enough; those responsible for the suffering must also be called out. The church has a responsibility to respond to oppression, but some Christians hesitate due to political divides.Trafficking has existed for centuries, as seen even in the Old Testament. Christianity has often fallen into extremes—either prioritizing justice at the cost of faith or neglecting justice. However, God values biblical justice, and Christians are called to be salt and light. The church should actively educate its members about trafficking. Pastors can spotlight organizations, events, and significant dates like Super Bowl Sunday, when trafficking spikes. Churches have powerful media platforms to share information, as social media plays a major role in trafficking. Many victims are groomed online, manipulated, and blackmailed. Raising awareness, praying, and encouraging open conversations with family and church leaders are essential. Indifference is the enemy of justice. Christians should take action, from something as extreme as covering inappropriate billboards to advocating for policy changes. The culture that enables trafficking must be confronted, including the over-sexualization of women. Men must be raised to be protectors. Feminism, in some forms, discourages men from stepping up, furthering the problem. Teaching boys respect and responsibility from a young age, like opening doors for their mothers, fosters protective instincts.Justice requires more than charity—it demands active participation in relief, restoration, and reform. The gospel must be central, combining good works with spiritual teaching. The church should support organizations fighting trafficking, recognizing that love and giving go hand in hand. While financial giving is valuable, time and encouragement are equally crucial for those working in anti-trafficking ministries. Prayer is a powerful tool in this fight. Christians are called to pray without ceasing. Generosity should reflect gratitude for the grace received from Christ, the ultimate Good Samaritan who lifts the broken. The question is not just about giving money, but also whether we are willing to give our time to help.Send us a textThanks for listening! If you’ve been helped by this podcast, we’d be grateful if you’d consider subscribing, sharing, and leaving us a comment and 5-star rating! Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.Ray ComfortEmeal (“E.Z.”) ZwayneMark SpenceOscar Navarro
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