Aims

1. JustLove Collective provides a space where we celebrate differences and resolve to unite beyond divisive labels. We welcome every race, every background, every sexual orientation, every physical and mental ability, every age, every present reality. The othering labels “liberal” and “conservative” have lost meaning. We don't have to agree on everything. We can disagree and still extend love and respect to everyone. We will live the basic principles of Jesus: “preach good news to the poor, proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, set at liberty those who are oppressed” (Luke 4:18).

2. Our primary motive is one of loving synergy. Instead of everyone working in separated silos we intend to collaborate. We also will sponsor bold, fun, interactive, practically helpful hybrid summits on or near Adventist university campuses, bringing together the best minds, hearts, energies, ideas, and practices. As we grow in grace we will produce content via podcasts, articles, blogs, books, and varied media that will outgrow and outlive us. We encourage creative artistic expression, especially by young people. The underlying ethos is, "We love Jesus and all people. Now what?" 

3. In the spirit of present truth we ask, “Where might God be leading?” When mystery and imagination and wonder are suctioned out by dates, formulas, and slogans, we will swim with courage against the current. All truth is God’s truth. We view fear as a primary enemy that can be overwhelmed by godly love (see 1 John 4:18). Martin Luther King, Jr. observed, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Pursuing biblical justice and mercy is our lifelong joy. We are each called to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15) particularly to those in positions of authority. So, we resolve not just to tell the truth but to live the truth.

4. Our aim is toward practical action. Often Christians prefer the menu to the meal, believing that "studying the Bible" and "going to church" are ends in themselves. They are not. We study the Bible so that we can love people and love God better—through active, practical means, in real life. We will educate and equip, guided by how new earth people look on the other side of revival. To follow Jesus’ Holy Spirit is a fearless, freeing adventure. “God’s Way is not a matter of mere talk; it’s an empowered life” (1 Cor. 4:20, Message).

5. We provide an open, graceful umbrella against the thrumming rain of righteous exclusivity. As did Jesus, Paul, John, Peter, and James, we believe ultimately in righteousness by love. Under this broad umbrella all people—especially marginalized people—are buoyed, connected, protected, nourished, seen. “Let anyone who wishes take the water of life freely” (Rev. 22:17). Recognizing that our society typically prioritizes the views of the privileged, we will prioritize the art of listening to and learning from those who are on the margins. Because we’re better together we will remain intercultural and intergenerational.

6. Understanding that all true religion is local, we believe the top of church hierarchy is the local church. Lasting change grows at the congregational level. Our cooperative efforts encourage the dreams and visions of regular folk. When institutional rigidness threatens to crush hopeful creativity and helpful dissent, we will resist in love. Questioning should not be confused with disloyalty. George Orwell wrote, “In a time of deceit, telling the truth is a revolutionary act.” As needed, we will unite to stand up, speak up, spread the word, build up, and give voice to the voiceless.

7. We resolve to move beyond merely complaining and theorizing. We are not content to sit on the sidelines to watch our beloved Adventist church become absorbed in triumphalism and trivial pursuits, micromanaged and purged. Activists take part in something larger than themselves. Thus, we will go beyond reciting fundamental beliefs to embody justice and joy, diversity and dialogue, love and liberty.

8. We refuse to succumb to negativity and cynicism. Instead, we will thrive with resilient joy and defiant optimism. We shall continue to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. To all who resonate with these aims, welcome home.