Allyson McKinney Timm guest lectured for this annual series, which was live-streamed on August 21, 2021.
The Gospel calls us undeniably to pursue justice in the world, as a vital expression of love for our neighbor in need. For seventy years, the modern human rights ideal has provided a systemic, overarching framework for the cause of justice—one that aspires to broad protections for the dignity and liberty of all people, everywhere. Christianity has made an indelible imprint on this system of universal rights, through unique theological and historic contributions.
Yet today we see the concept of human rights too often misunderstood, neglected, or misused across our country and in our faith communities. How can justice conscious churches reclaim a renewed Christian vision of human rights, as a model and measure of justice? What are the deeper biblical and theological sources of human rights in the Christian tradition? What insight will this bring to problems of racism, xenophobia, nationalism, misogyny, and heterosexism that divide our nation?
This lecture series will engage three Protestant theologians’ work on human rights to explore the primary foundations of these rights in the Christian tradition: who God is, who Christ is, and who we are. Each lecture will center on a pressing problem of injustice in the United States today: systemic racism, rising nationalism, and enduring sexism. Whether you’re new to human rights or a longtime student of the subject, you’ll have a chance to deepen your understanding and gain new insights to inform your witness for justice in the world.
Event Schedule
Lecture 1: “Human Rights in Light of Divine Love”
Part 1: from St. Philip Presbyterian on Vimeo.
Lecture 2: “Human Rights in Light of Sacred Human Worth”
Part 2: from St. Philip Presbyterian on Vimeo.
Lecture 3: “Human Rights in Light of Christ’s Solidarity with Us”
Part 3: from St. Philip Presbyterian on Vimeo.