A Response to Pastor Donnie Swaggart’s Recent Comments
At Mount Olive Baptist Church, we are committed to standing on the truth of God’s Word and addressing matters that impact our faith and community. Recently, Pastor Donnie Swaggart made comments regarding the Black church that reflect misguided assumptions and a troubling lack of understanding about the heart and mission of our tradition. These remarks are not only offensive but also highlight a misalignment with the spirit of Christ’s message.
It is difficult for me to understand why Swaggart would speak about the Black church as if he were an authoritative figure—one who decides when, where, and how we worship, or even who we should worship. Such rhetoric not only dismisses the spiritual autonomy and sacred heritage of the Black church but also reflects an attitude that is far removed from humility and love, the very essence of Christian leadership.
The Black church has always been a beacon of hope, driven by a desire to mutually uplift all of humanity—believing that the Gospel transforms not just individuals but entire communities. Our tradition is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who called us to love our neighbor, care for the least among us, and seek justice for the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19, Matthew 25:35-40).
In contrast, Christian Nationalism, which Swaggart’s remarks seem to reflect, tends to conflate faith with political power. It elevates national loyalty and control over the message of the Gospel and often dismisses the prophetic role of the church in addressing injustice. The Black church, however, embraces a Gospel of Social Justice—a Gospel that does not merely focus on personal salvation but also calls for equity, dignity, and opportunity for all people.
The mission of the Black church has always been to speak truth to power and bring about healing and restoration—not just for the Black community but for all of humanity. We seek to reflect the inclusive love of Christ by lifting up the brokenhearted, advocating for justice, and building bridges across every divide. Our faith moves us to action, believing that transformed hearts lead to transformed communities.
At Mount Olive, we reject any rhetoric that seeks to undermine the contributions of the Black church or dictate how we express our worship and service. The freedom to worship is a sacred gift from God, and our calling to love, serve, and uplift others reflects the kingdom values Jesus preached.
As believers, we remain steadfast in our mission to proclaim the Gospel and engage in works of justice and mercy. Micah 6:8 reminds us: “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” It is in this spirit that we continue to serve—faithfully and boldly—ensuring that our worship, our service, and our message reflect the heart of God’s love for all people.
Let us remain committed to worshiping freely and serving boldly, for the glory of God and the uplifting of all humanity.
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