In the last few years protests have become a common expression of societal concerns and calls for justice. Yet, as a Christian, you might grapple with questions about whether or not you should participate in protests and when and why it is appropriate.

When I worked for a local nonprofit, I decided to attend a march fin Washington, SC for the cause we represented. The event included a few days of workshops on the cause, several rallies with amazing speakers and of course ended with a very peaceful street march to the capitol.

I had never participated in these types of events before, mainly because I was not sure how I felt about being so “in your face” about my stance on the cause, I was not sure how it would impact my Christian witness and honestly, I was not convinced that it would actually change anything. It was an experience that I will never forget, and I am glad that I went.

Let’s delve into what a protest is, the different types of protests, and whether they can bring about meaningful change.

A protest is a collective expression of dissatisfaction or disagreement with a particular issue, policy, or situation. It is often characterized by gatherings of people who voice their concerns through various means, such as marches, rallies, or public demonstrations. Protests serve as a way for individuals and communities to advocate for change and justice.

The question of whether a Christian should protest is a matter of personal conviction and discernment. While the Bible does not explicitly address the act of protesting, it does underscore the importance of seeking justice, standing up for the oppressed, and advocating for righteousness.

Micah 6:8 (NIV) reminds us, “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

This verse encapsulates the core principles that drive many protests—seeking justice, showing mercy, and walking humbly. As a Christian, you may find it your duty to participate in protests when they align with these principles and address matters that concern you deeply.

Protests take various forms, including:

1. Peaceful Marches and Rallies: These events involve people coming together to voice their concerns and advocate for change in a peaceful and organized manner.

2. Civil Disobedience: Some protests involve acts of civil disobedience, such as sit-ins or blocking traffic, to draw attention to an issue.

3. Boycotts: Economic protests in the form of boycotts aim to impact businesses or organizations by withholding support until changes are made.

4. Online Activism: In today’s digital age, online protests through social media and petitions have gained prominence as means of voicing concerns and mobilizing supporters.

The effectiveness of protests can vary widely. Some lead to significant change, while others may not yield immediate results. The impact of a protest often depends on the public response, the level of engagement, and whether it resonates with the broader community and decision-makers.

As a Christian, you may feel called to protest when issues align with biblical principles of justice, mercy, and humility. Your participation in protests should be guided by your convictions and an understanding of the issue at hand. Remember that the ultimate goal is to advocate for positive change and seek justice in a manner that reflects Christ’s love and compassion. In a world filled with various forms of injustice, protests can serve as a powerful tool for amplifying voices and making a difference.