Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is remembered for his “I Have a Dream” speech about equality among racial diversity. What holds us back from King’s dream still today, and how can you help?

NOTES AND NEXT STEPS

Acts 10:9-23  +  Message 3 from the series “Dreamer”

Why is the church segregated?

“There is someone I love, even though I don’t approve of what he does. There is someone I accept, though some of his thoughts and actions revolt me. There is someone I forgive, though he hurts the people I love the most. That person is _______ .” — C.S. Lewis

Peter loved himself. Jesus loved Peter.

“Surely not, Lord!” Peter replied. “I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.” The voice spoke to him a second time, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.” (Acts 10:14,15)

A church that dreams of diversity and does not fear it.

“I’m the one you’re looking for.” (Acts 10:21)

SPIRITUAL NEXT STEPS

1. Search online for “Martin Luther King I have a dream speech.” Listen. Absorb. Pray about your role in our church and community to help improve diversity.
2. Reflect on and discuss the quote from C.S. Lewis and what it means to fear oneself. Also, in what way does this help to fear God?
3. Read more of the story in chapters 10 and 11 of the book of Acts. How did the church respond to Peter’s new approach to diversity?
4. Make a list of at least 5 groups that the church might consider “unclean” today. Suggest some solutions to this segregation. Bring it all together by one word that represents all solutions. Write it down on a sticky note and keep it visible in your home for 30 days.
5. Do something to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in a way you haven’t before.