Program
Doctor of Ministry
Number of Pages
211
Year Approved
2025
First Advisor
Dr. Katie Friesen Smith
Abstract
The Bridge-Builder Project demonstrates that social justice is based on God’s Character, God’s Covenant, and God’s Call. God consistently addressed inequities affecting the oppressed, the orphaned, the imprisoned, and the widowed. Social justice has been associated with political parties; however, it is clearly reflected in God’s view of humanity. For the Christian, our frame of reference begins with God. Scripture offers a clear framework. That framework begins with understanding humanity through the lens of the One who made us – God. God created each diverse human being in His Image—Imago Dei. Based on this premise, God values humanity and that each person flourish. Racism is in opposition to this premise. Racism is viewed as a sin by God and, as such, it is a sin. Jesus Christ is the Chief Bridge-Builder. He who knew no sin became sin for others (Jn. 1:14). Jesus Christ served as the bridge between a Holy God and sinful humanity (Rom. 3:23). On the fifth anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, his death remains a catalyst for change as it brought racism to the forefront of the nation once again. Floyd’s death reflects a broader issue, the sin of racism. There is a racial divide on how Black and White Christians view racism. These diverse perspectives create division that is in opposition to God’s Call. At its most extreme, as seen with Floyd’s tragic death, racism can mean the loss of human life. Racism is an urgent spiritual, moral, and ethical issue with serious consequences. God provides biblically-based principles for Christian leaders to follow. Disciples follow the path that He has laid by building bridges with others. Christians leaders who seek to emulate God will follow His Path. The significance of this moment should not be missed. Will you answer God’s Call to be His Bridge-Builder?
Degree Name
Doctor of Ministry
Document Type
Doctoral thesis
Recommended Citation
Williams, M. (2025). The Bridge-Builder Project: Social Justice Bridge-Builder- A Model for Addressing Racial Justice [Doctoral thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/1221
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