April 23, 2026

God Will Not Be Mocked: Peacemaking, War, and the Call for Encouragement

24 minutes

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode of To Be Encouraged, Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble tackle the topic of Christian response to war, political rhetoric, and the importance of peacemaking in turbulent times. The conversation is sparked by recent events involving military action in Iran, polarizing political language, and public controversy around the blending of faith and power. Drawing on scripture, Methodist tradition, and ecumenical perspectives, the hosts call listeners to deeper reflection and courageous action in advocating for peace.

Three Takeaways1. Identity as Children of God Transcends Division

Reverend Dr. Brad Miller and Bishop Julius C. Trimble stress that every person has sacred worth as a child of God 01:49. This foundational belief shapes an inclusive worldview that rejects the diminishing of any group’s humanity and underpins the Christian call to be peacemakers rather than participants in cycles of violence 02:46.

2. The Church’s Prophetic Call: Peacemaking Over Political Alignment

The episode critiques both the language of political leaders and the tendency to conflate national power with divine endorsement, particularly when biblical imagery and authority are wielded to justify war 06:43. Quoting Galatians and Methodist teaching, Bishop Julius C. Trimble insists the church must “deplore war in all forms of violent conflict” and instead urge peaceful resolutions 06:28. The hosts challenge Christian nationalism and urge a return to biblical principles, not political expedience 18:36.

3. Practical Steps: Advocacy, Encouragement, and Raising Expectations

Listeners are encouraged to advocate for national priorities that reflect Christ’s teachings—redirecting resources from weapons to humanitarian efforts 19:23. Bishop Julius C. Trimble calls for personal agency in encouragement and peacemaking, citing 1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build up each other” 22:12. Small acts of kindness and public advocacy are both seen as vital Christian responses amid conflict.

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