When nine African American students enrolled in formerly all-white Central High School in Little Rock AR, they were not welcomed. A mob of 400 protestors threatened them with violence. Inside, a small group of students harassed and assaulted them. The Black students just kept their cool and turned the other cheek, living by the values they had learned growing up. When God delivered ancient Israel from Egyptian slavery, Moses gave them a set of values they were expected to live by in their community. These moral principles were to guide, not only their vertical relationships with God, helping them live in harmony with one another. We read in Exodus chapter 20 where God said, “You must not murder. “You must not commit adultery. “You must not steal. “You must not testify falsely against your neighbor. “You must not covet your neighbor’s house. You must not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else that belongs to your neighbor.” God gave these principles, not only for these ancient Israelites but to guide us today in our conduct.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
