As one of the most influential civil rights activist in our nation’s history, Martin Luther King Jr. acquired a great following of people. However, at the time, he faced criticism and backlash from many as well.
Similar to MLK, the prophet Jeremiah had a call to reform. However, he was not as well liked by his peers. The book of the prophet Jeremiah is included in the Bible and we view him as a connection, or “intermediary” between God and humans. But, is MLK a false or true prophet?
Before his activism, MLK was a Christian Baptist minister. He oftentimes brought his faith into his activism and historic speeches. MLK spoke about seeing the Promised Land. Through non-violent protest, a devotion to the Lord, and resilience to reform, his followers would be lead there, too. What is the Promised Land? Does MLK mean it in the literal sense, that he is a prophet of the Lord? Or, does he mean that he has seen equality prosper in this nation?
Through the prophet Jeremiah (prophet in the literal sense), God called upon all people to, “Reform your ways and your deeds so that I may dwell with you in this place.“ Essentially, God is telling people to change their lifestyle so they can enter into the Promised Land with the Lord. Quite a similar story to MLK. Jeremiah then continued to say, “Only if you thoroughly reform your ways and your deeds; if each of you deals justly with your neighbor; if you no longer oppress the alien,– the orphan, and the widow.” He is professing equality among all neighbors. Both Jeremiah and MLK preached change and equality among all people.
I don’t believe that MLK was a prophet in the religious sense. In my opinion, he was not an intermediary between God and His people. However, I believe that MLK was a faith-filled man and preached love and equality between all people. He was a prophet of the people, not of God. He was a loyal disciple of the Lord and made that clear through his orations. Jeremiah had a direct connection with God and proclaimed His messaged, but not many people wanted to listen. Both the prophet Jeremiah and Martin Luther King Jr. moved people with their words. Both were inspired by the love and grace of our Lord.
Macayle Fuchs 