Antifa, short for anti-fascists, is a left-wing, decentralized political activist movement that seeks to combat fascism. The movement has roots going back to groups that resisted fascism in Europe in the early 20th century, but the modern Antifa movement is generally traced back to groups that fought neo-Nazis in the punk rock scene in 1970s and 1980s Britain and Germany. In recent years, Antifa groups have engaged in sometimes violent confrontations with far-right and alt-right groups in the United States and elsewhere.
While the mainstream media often portrays Antifa as a well-organized movement, it is in reality loose collection of local activists without formal leadership or hierarchy. Antifa activists generally believe that fascism must be resisted directly rather than through ordinary political means. This has led some Antifa groups to damage property and engage in street fights as a way to disrupt and intimidate their far-right opponents. Critics argue these tactics often target innocent bystanders and undermine free speech. Antifa activists counter that extraordinary means are justified given the threat they believe fascism poses to marginalized groups.
As Christians, how should we view a movement like Antifa? The Bible does not directly address Antifa, as it is a 21st century movement. However, Scripture gives us principles that can guide our perspective.
First, the Bible makes it clear that all people are created in God’s image and have inherent dignity and worth (Genesis 1:27). This would include both Antifa activists and their far-right opponents. While we can reject certain beliefs, we should still treat all people with love (Luke 6:27).
Second, the Bible calls Christians to promote justice and defend the oppressed (Isaiah 1:17; Psalm 82:3). Insofar as Antifa sincerely strives to oppose dangerous far-right ideologies that promote racism, anti-Semitism and white supremacy, their overall aims of resisting oppression can be viewed as noble from a Christian perspective. However, the methods matter greatly.
This leads to a third crucial point – the Bible strongly emphasizes loving enemies, not responding to evil with evil, turning the other cheek, and overcoming evil with good (Matthew 5:39; Romans 12:14; 12:17). Vigilante violence, vengeance and destruction of property are antithetical to the Christian ethic revealed in Scripture. While Antifa aims may be laudable, many of their tactics clearly violate biblical values.
Fourth, Christians have a duty to show grace and forgiveness when people repent and change (Luke 17:3). Some former white supremacists and neo-Nazis have renounced their past views and sought redemption through Jesus Christ. Though we must boldly resist dangerous ideologies, we should also be ready to forgive those who have a change of heart.
Fifth, the Bible makes clear Christians should obey governing authorities unless they directly contradict God’s commands (Romans 13:1-7; Titus 3:1; 1 Peter 2:13-17). Though we may disagree strongly with certain policies or politicians, violations of the law are generally not appropriate for followers of Christ. Any illegal actions by Antifa activists conflict with the scriptural command to submit to governing authorities.
In summary, a biblical perspective on Antifa would commend their strong stand against dangerous ideologies, but condemn any vigilante violence or unlawful actions. Christians should stand firmly against fascism, racism and oppression through biblical methods such as reason, persuasion, non-violence and loving confrontation. While Antifa aims may be noble, the Bible offers a better way to combat evil – overcoming it with love, light and truth.
Romans 12:9 instructs believers to “abhor what is evil.” Christians should unequivocally oppose dangerous far-right groups that foment racism and anti-Semitism. White supremacy and neo-Nazism are utterly contrary to biblical values of the equal dignity and worth of all people (Genesis 1:27). Acts 17:26 declares God “made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth.” Race-based ideologies are an affront to God’s view of humanity.
However, while vigorously rejecting flawed ideas, Christians should still show Christlike love and mercy to those Espousing them. 2 Timothy 2:24-25 states “the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness.” The methods we use matter greatly. 1 Peter 3:15-16 says “always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
So how can Christians stand firmly against dangerous ideologies while still showing biblical love and grace? Here are some principles from Scripture:
– We can reject flawed ideas without hating or dehumanizing those who hold them. Labeling people often escalates conflict. See others as created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), even when their views are distorted.
– We can speak truth with love (Ephesians 4:15). Communicate with both conviction and Christlike compassion. Do not demonize opponents but appeal to conscience and common humanity.
– We can overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). Respond to hatred with understanding, intolerance with empathy, and calls for violence with calls for peace. Return good for evil.
– We can set an example by our upright conduct (1 Peter 2:12). Actions speak louder than words. Practice what you preach with integrity, honesty and purity in public and private life.
– We can expose deeds of darkness through light (Ephesians 5:11). Ignorance and misinformation sustain prejudice. Spread truth to counter false narratives, shone light into darkness.
– We can pray for and bless opponents (Matthew 5:44). Ask God to change hearts and open eyes. Only God’s love can truly transform people. Pray for your enemies.
The Bible celebrates those who renounce past sins and turn to righteousness (Luke 15:7). If opponents have a change of heart, Christians should be ready with open arms to welcome, forgive, restore and rejoice (Luke 15:11-32).
Influential Christian leaders like William Wilberforce stood boldly against oppression and injustice in their societies. Wilberforce fought vocally to abolish slavery in the British Empire. He leveraged relationships with powerful officials, using well-reasoned arguments and appealing to conscience to ultimately help turn the tide against slavery.
Wilberforce undoubtedly hated the evils of slavery with every fiber of his being. However, he channeled that hatred not into vengeance toward slave owners but into tireless efforts to legally transform society for the better. He exemplified overcoming evil with good through Christian values of patience, wisdom, courage and redemptive love.
In the same manner, Christians today can stand firmly against dangerous ideologies like white supremacy without adopting the misguided approach of extremist groups. With both conviction and compassion, truth and love, we can expose prejudice, ignite consciences and peacefully change hearts and minds.
Acts 5:29 says “We must obey God rather than men.” Christians should submit to governing authorities insofar as they do not require us to directly disobey God’s commands (Romans 13:1-7). However, when human laws clearly conflict with God’s law, civil disobedience may be justified.
But civil disobedience does not mean abandoning all restraint. Christians should carefully weigh which laws require disobedience, and break them in a peaceful, non-violent manner, ready to accept the consequences. Laws that appear unwise or even unjust do not necessarily warrant illegal actions by believers.
For example, Christians doctrinally opposed to abortion have legitimate legal avenues such as voting, lobbying and non-violent protest to change laws they view as unjust. Acts of violence or destruction against clinics cannot be justified biblically. Christians should also realize laws rarely change overnight, requiring long-term persuasion in a pluralistic society.
Some Antifa activists claim current injustices justify violence and lawlessness now to stamp out fascism before it spreads. But Christians understand God’s Kingdom advances not through force but through changed hearts and minds. Lasting change comes through Christlike perseverance, not vigilantism. We sow seeds of righteousness that may take decades to fully bear fruit. God’s timing is not our timing.
Christians should thoughtfully and prayerfully consider which laws require civil disobedience, and break them in a restrained manner to minimize harm to others. Actions meant primarily to shock, intimidate or provoke are unwise and unbiblical. As 1 Peter 2:12 states, we must live upright lives among unbelievers so “they may see your good deeds and glorify God.”
The Bible celebrates bold stands against injustice, but through Christlike methods. Christians can firmly resist dangerous ideologies like white supremacy without adopting an “ends justify the means” approach. With courage, conviction and compassion, we can be society’s conscience to advance God’s Kingdom through biblical values of truth, righteousness, justice, mercy and redeeming love.
Ephesians 6:12 says “we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.” Behind racism, white supremacy, anti-Semitism and other dangerous ideologies are unseen spiritual forces of evil.
Therefore, Christians understand the battle is not merely physical but spiritual in nature. We war not against people but against the spiritual forces that ensnare them. People with distorted ideologies are captives who need liberation (2 Timothy 2:25-26). While firmly resisting falsehood, we must pray God opens blinded eyes with His truth and love.
We also realize generations of injustice and brutality leave deep wounds. Healing comes through seeking justice, granting mercy, forging understanding and showing Christlike love. Christians know only the Gospel has power to truly change hearts and transform enemies into friends. God’s love alone can melt hardened hearts.
So while vigorously denouncing dangerous ideologies, Christians also pray for and appeal to the shared humanity of those promoting them. With empathy, wisdom and compassion, we point them to the true source of healing – redemption found in Jesus Christ. As vessels of God’s love, we aim not only to reject flawed ideas but also to redeem those who espouse them, recognizing they are captives needing liberation.
The Bible provides many examples of radical redemption. Paul, who previously persecuted Christians, later became Christianity’s foremost exponent. Christian love redeemed him. Saul, who allowed Stephen’s stoning, became Paul who himself was later stoned for preaching Christ (Acts 7:58, 14:19). No one is beyond God’s redemptive reach. Genuine change is possible when God moves.
So Christians reject flawed ideologies while still loving ‘sinners’ ensnared by them. We make arguments based on truth, reason and conscience – and temper them with spiritual wisdom and biblical love. We aim not only to win arguments but to win hearts for Christ. Jesus came first to liberate and then to judge. We follow His model, seeking redemption before condemnation.
The Bible makes clear Christians will face opposition and hostility as they stand for truth in an imperfect world (John 15:18-21, 2 Timothy 3:12). But Scripture provides guidance on how to respond to enmity and injustice.
First, we look to Jesus’ example. 1 Peter 2:21-23 states “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten.” When persecuted, Jesus did not retaliate but entrusted himself to God.
Second, we bless those who persecute us and refrain from vengeance (Romans 12:14, 12:17-21). God promises He will ultimately judge evildoers; we need not avenge ourselves (Deuteronomy 32:35). We overcome evil with good, hatred with love.
Third, we pray for enemies and persecutors that they might come to know Christ (Matthew 5:44). Stephen exemplified this while being stoned (Acts 7:60). Only God’s love can change hearts.
Fourth, we forgive those who wrong us, just as Christ has forgiven us (Colossians 3:13). Forgiveness breaks cycles of injustice and violence.
Fifth, we remember God is ultimately sovereign over human affairs. No injustice or persecution is beyond God’s control or notice (Isaiah 40:15-17, Habakkuk 1:13). He often uses difficulties to refine and strengthen our faith (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-4).
Standing for truth often brings hardship. But Jesus told His followers “do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul” (Matthew 10:28). The temporary troubles of this life are not worthy to be compared with the eternal glory to come for those who serve Christ faithfully despite opposition (Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17-18).
So Christians need not resort to unbiblical methods even when resisting dangerous ideologies. Through the Spirit’s help, we can respond to hostility and aggression with faith, courage, love and prayer. Our weapons are not physical but spiritual, empowered by God Himself (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). Our victory comes through Christlike perseverance even amid opposition.
Ephesians 5:6 warns “Let no one deceive you with empty words.” While the aims of Antifa may appear noble, some of their methods and tactics clearly contradict biblical values.
Scripture makes clear God hates injustice and commands His people to defend the oppressed. However, it also strongly prohibits vengeance and vigilante violence. Followers of Jesus are called to overcome evil with good, hatred with love – not more evil and hatred.
While Antifa aims to thwart dangerous ideologies, some of their extreme methods actually undermine democracy and free speech. Justice must be pursued through moral, lawful means or it ceases to be justice. Noble goals achieved through unethical means still result in an unethical outcome.
Christians also understand the fight against injustice involves a spiritual battle that cannot be won through force alone. Radically transformed hearts come when God’s light penetrates darkness. Lasting change happens when Christ redeems souls. Without inner conversion, stamping out harmful ideologies through vigilantism will prove futile or even counterproductive.
So how should Christians respond to Antifa? We ought to clearly reject any unbiblical methods while also graciously pointing to better ways to combat injustice. We can strategically partner with activists in lawful, ethical efforts while challenging approaches that violate biblical values. Loving confrontation and moral suasion can help influence activists to discard unwise tactics that undermine their cause.
Christians can also set an example through our own activism against injustice through biblical methods. MLK Jr. fought racism through non-violence. William Wilberforce fought slavery through reasoned persuasion. We can make progress through prayer, fasting, non-cooperation, civil disobedience and other biblical means.
Proverbs 15:1 says “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” And 2 Timothy 2:24-25 tells us to correct opponents with gentleness. If we have earned relational capital with activists through deeds of love and service, they may be open to correction. We must earn the right to speak into others’ lives. Rebuke without relationship often backfires.
The Bible offers timeless wisdom relevant to current debates about addressing injustice. Scripture makes clear evil must be firmly resisted, but through Christlike methods. May God give His people wisdom, courage and compassion to stand for truth against oppression through biblical means that honor Him.