The rainbow belonged to God before it belonged to politics
America is experiencing a troubling contradiction.We encourage people to show up as their authentic selves and point out the importance of diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences in our nation.That is, until those differences are anchored in biblical conviction.Then, suddenly, the conversation shifts and faith becomes something to keep private.
Religious beliefs become acceptable only when they are silent.Scripture becomes welcome only when it stays inside a church building.That should concern every American.Recently, three San Francisco Giants pitchers found themselves at the center of controversy after citing Genesis 9:12-16 on their caps during the team’s Pride Night celebration.
This passage points to God’s covenant with Noah, and the biblical origin of the rainbow.Almost immediately, critics accused them of making a statement.Major League Baseball reportedly issued formal warnings to the three involved.Yet I cannot help but ask a simple question: When did a Bible verse become something to fear?The players did not disrupt the game and they did not prevent anyone else from expressing a different viewpoint.
They simply acknowledged a biblical truth they believed.The real issue is whether people of faith still have the freedom to express their convictions in the public square without being treated as a problem to solve.
The issue before us is not the validity of Genesis.God’s Word does not require the approval of a league office, a corporation, a political movement, or the culture at large.The issue is whether people who believe God’s Word still have the freedom to live according to it and speak it openly.Believers have looked to Genesis 9 and understood the rainbow to be the sign of God’s covenant with humanity.
That truth did not originate in a boardroom.It did not emerge from a marketing campaign.
It was established by God Himself.That is what these players referenced.Not a political slogan.
Not an act of protest or attack on anyone.A...