May 8, 2024

Boy Scouts Rebrand, Trump in Contempt, Israel in Rafah

May 08, 2024

May 8, 2024

“What greater encouragement can a man have to fight against his enemy than when he is sure of the victory before he fights?”

Richard Sibbes

Boy Scout Rebrands

After 114 years, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) is rebranding as "Scouting America." The name change, effective on the organization's 115th birthday in 2025, aims to "foster inclusivity" and signals a move beyond the organization's bankruptcy following numerous sexual abuse claims. Roger A. Krone, BSA's president, emphasizes the continuity of the organization's mission to prepare youth for life. This change follows previous shifts, including welcoming LGBTQ+ youth, allowing girls to join, and now rebranding for broader inclusion. Scouting offers a wide array of activities beyond camping, focusing on teaching resilience, life skills, and leadership.

God created both men and women alike (Genesis 2:22-24), yet He also made us distinct from each other (Genesis 1:27). These differences are not merely superficial but are inherent from the moment of conception, woven into the fabric of our being (Psalm 139:13-14).

It's beneficial for boys to have dedicated spaces where they can learn from men about aspects of boyhood and healthy manhood. Unfortunately, such spaces are increasingly rare in today's world… and it has been a long time since the Boy Scouts was a safe or effective place for that to happen. Even though the organization has never claimed to be explicitly Christian, in its original content and "oaths," the Juedo-Christian ethic was obvious in its influence. Tragically, and with horrible consequences, that foundation constantly eroded and was increasingly ignored, ultimately leading to the abhorrent sexual deviancy within the Boy Scouts of America's past (Matthew 18:6, Luke 8:17). Thankfully, the horror of such behavior is still publicly recognized as unacceptable, but beware, is something that will also be corrupted if we are not vigilant (Genesis 4:24).

The desire to include others does not inherently contradict biblical commands, but the Boy Scouts leadership has for the last several years struggled, like many in our world, to balance "inclusion" with truth and love (Ephesians 4:15, Proverbs 3:3-4). It's not sinful for them to change their guidelines unless those changes are informed by a progressive mindset that is unwilling to see the wisdom of honoring God and maintaining His truths in all things. Failure to do so will further damage youth, encourage instead of lovingly confront mental illness, sexual exploration and immorality, and ultimately, create a space that is more likely to foster additional sexual improprieties that the BSA was not that long ago rightly condemned for (Proverbs 13:6, Romans 6:19a, James 1:15).

Take a moment to pray for the youth in America, for boys to learn what it means to be a godly man, and for girls to learn what it means to be a godly woman.

_{By: The Remnant News Team}

Israel Enters Rafah

The Israeli military conducted a limited operation in Rafah, Gaza, seizing control of the city's border crossing with Egypt to eliminate Hamas fighters and infrastructure. The move, prompted by the killing of four Israeli soldiers, halted aid flow into Gaza, worsening the humanitarian crisis. Despite international pressure for a cease-fire, Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected Hamas's proposal, demanding a complete halt to hostilities. The incursion escalated tensions, with concerns over civilian casualties and the potential for a full-scale invasion.

The consequences of Hamas’ attack continue to unfold before our eyes. As Israel rightly continues their offensive to destroy the threat against their nation and citizens, millions are suffering. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is real; the need for food, shelter, medical aid, and stability for the families, women, and children in Palestine is urgent. Let us remember who started this conflict (Hamas), who can end it (Hamas), and Who is sovereign (Psalm 103:19) and holds the hearts of all men in his hand (Proverbs 21:1)… may He see fit to bring an end to this conflict quickly. Pray with us for those suffering in Gaza to place their faith in the One who will wipe every tear from the eye of His children one day soon (Revelation 21:4).

We have written extensively on Israel, their right to defend their borders and their citizens. We’ve written about the true intentions of Hamas and the terrible suffering happening as a result of their terrorism (Proverbs 29:2). To read every Remnant Response we’ve written about the conflict in Israel, click here.

_{By: The Remnant News Team}

Trump in Contempt

Former President Donald Trump has been found in contempt of court by Judge Juan Merchan for repeatedly violating a gag order in his hush money trial, with Merchan hinting at potential jail time for Trump. Despite expressing reluctance, Merchan emphasized the necessity of upholding the law, imposing a $1,000 fine on Trump for the latest violation. The trial concerns allegations of Trump's involvement in falsifying business records related to payments made to Stormy Daniels before the 2016 election. While Trump's camp criticized the ruling, legal analysts suggest alternative sanctions such as short periods of detention, with law enforcement preparing contingency plans in case of jail sentencing.

Any justice system is only effective as long as it pursues true justice, judges remain impartial, and truth reigns over bias and political agenda (Leviticus 19:15). While the righteous are bold as a lion (Proverbs 28:1), they are also slow to speak (Proverbs 21:23) and slow to anger (James 1:19), they flee sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:18) and seek to live above reproach (and surround themselves with the same) (1 Timothy 3:2, Psalm 101:7). Whether or not Trump has done what he has been accused of is for the judges to decide, and we should hope they rule rightly. What is clear is that the choices Trump has sown have reaped a significant helping of trouble, lawsuits, investigations, and speculation (Galatians 6:7). While innocent men can certainly suffer unjust accusations and their consequences (Genesis 39-41), we should consider with a discerning mind why Trump has found himself in so many “predicaments”. Trump may represent the Republican party in the upcoming election, but we must not make the mistake of believing he is representing Christ, the way of the remnant, or the hope of our nation, even as he seeks to Make America Great, which, for the record, is a goal we share.