Building Bridges

The Power of Unlikely Friendships Powered by God’s Grace and The Gospel

Reflecting on Black History Month 2025, I want to highlight a powerful example of reconciliation, faith, and friendship that transcended race, culture, and geography. The story of Thomas Johnson and Charles Spurgeon, as told in Steal Away Home by Matt Carter and Aaron Ivey, is a remarkable testament to how God weaves together lives for His purpose.

Thomas Johnson was born into the brutal reality of American chattel slavery, longing for the day he would taste freedom. On the other side of the Atlantic, Charles Spurgeon, one of the most influential Christian preachers of his time, experienced a different kind of bondage—a deep struggle with depression and a burden for justice. Though worlds apart, their lives became intertwined in a way that only God could orchestrate.

Johnson eventually gained his freedom and, compelled by his faith, pursued theological training at Spurgeon’s College in England. Spurgeon, who had openly condemned slavery despite harsh criticism, became a mentor and friend to Johnson. Their relationship defied the cultural norms of the 1800s, standing as a witness to the unity found in Christ. Spurgeon’s support helped Johnson fulfill his calling as a missionary to Africa, proving that kingdom work thrives when believers embrace one another despite societal divisions.

This story challenges us today. What unlikely friendships might God be calling us to? How can we bridge divides in our communities, churches, and ministries? Johnson and Spurgeon’s bond reminds us that the gospel compels us to love beyond boundaries and labor together in Christ's mission.

As we honor Black History Month, let’s celebrate not just the victories of the past but also the transformative power of relationships that God uses to shape history. Who are the Thomases and Spurgeons of our time, and how can we unite for the sake of the gospel, being an example in times marked by division? If this subject interests you, I would love to talk about it. Don’t hesitate to reach out to me at kali.brandon@tcig.org.