CAMPUS NEWS Christian Worldview Week Focuses on Imago Dei


Expressing hope for methods that build deep, lasting roots through mutual accountability, Dr. George Yancey, professor of sociology at Baylor University proposed a “third way” to overcome racism in two presentations launching NGU’s Christian Worldview Week in March.


Drawing upon biblical concepts and reflecting on findings from his sociological research, Yancey said collaborative conversations in a mutual accountability model can reduce racial division, offering an option to what he cited as the controversial solutions of either colorblindness or antiracism.


“We have to be productive, not destructive in our conversations,” said Yancey. “To convince others, we have to build rapport, identify areas of agreement, admit when an opponent has a good point, understand their arguments, and look at what a person wants below the surface.”


He said efforts at colorblindness and antiracism have not been very effective in addressing racial tensions in the United States. Noting from his research the conclusions that colorblindness ignores the realities of race and the history of injustice, while antiracism centers racial concerns and in so doing, often alienates people who need to be involved in the process, Yancey proposed an alternative approach to racial relations where all parties contribute and are mutually accountable to one another for societal well-being.


He also explored a larger vision for a Christian educational institution like North Greenville, and how local churches can engage in the solutions that make the most sense for their unique congregations.


“Teach people of all races how to work through racial problems, model healthy handling of racial problems, and produce Christian leaders who chart a truly biblical path toward racial reconciliation that will eventually impact our society and prepare a multiracial church for a post-Christian world,” he said.


He added that history and societal complexity means that different participants may have different kinds of responsibility, but all are involved in seeking the common good for all to thrive, avoiding unilateral decisions that close off dialogue.


Yancey is the author of the book “Beyond Racial Division,” published by InterVarsity Press. He has published several research articles on the topics of institutional racial diversity, racial identity, academic bias, progressive Christians and anti-Christian hostility.


Joyful Sound Alumni Mark 45 Years


Joyful Sound singers from the last 45 years returned to NGU in April to participate in a reunion worship concert in Turner Chapel. The event offered former Joyful Sound members the opportunity to take the stage once again.


Hundreds of student musicians have used their God-given talents through the years to introduce others to Jesus Christ for the first time, encourage believers to deepen their relationship with Him, and comfort the brokenhearted; all for God’s glory through music and worship.


During the concert, alumni sang under the direction of Becky Kirby, whose husband, Rick, was the founding director of the group. The alums also were led by Josh Epton, current Joyful Sound director.


Concert video available online: go.ngu.edu/1892 NGU.EDU | 21


NGU’s annual Christian Worldview Week features a series of presentations from noted speakers, celebrating the foundational truth the school is built on: that God is the source of all truth.


Dr. David Entwistle, Distinguished Professor of Psychology at NGU, discussed the glory of God’s creation and how it shapes the Christian worldview during a presentation which was part of the week’s focus.


“Evangelical theology has often tended to focus more on the brokenness of humanity than on the glory of humanity,” Entwistle said. “Not surprisingly, this state of affairs has led to integrative efforts that concentrate on the darker side of human nature and tend to neglect what is admirable and noble in human nature. A more complete view is needed that celebrates humans’ positive features as creatures who bear the image of God, while simultaneously recognizing the pervasiveness of sin and its effects.”


Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr., took students through part of his own life story as he wrapped up the week’s emphasis, stressing that humanity’s ability to share experiences spanning time and place underscores our creation in the image of God.


“Each of us has a story to share. Each of us is human. Each of us is a creation of God, with a unique relationship with God,” he said, connecting to Genesis 1:27, that God created people in the image of God (Imago Dei).


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