Podcast Summary: Renewing Your Mind – Episode: "The Innocent Native"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Renewing Your Mind
• Host/Author: Ligonier Ministries
• Description: Renewing Your Mind is the daily podcast of Ligonier Ministries, launched by R.C. Sproul to help Christians deepen their understanding of God through the renewal of their minds according to His Word. This episode delves into Scripture to apply its timeless truths to listeners' lives.
• Episode: The Innocent Native
• Release Date: June 9, 2025

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Innocent Native," R.C. Sproul addresses a profound and challenging question that often arises within Christian circles: What happens to individuals who have never heard about Jesus Christ? This inquiry touches on the heart of Christian compassion, evangelism, and theological understanding of salvation.

The Core Question

Timestamp: [00:00]
R.C. Sproul opens the discussion by emphasizing the importance of grappling with the fate of those who have never encountered the Gospel. “If we have any concern for people, if we have any compassion for people, we must ask the question, what happens to people who have never, ever had the opportunity to hear about Christ?” This sets the stage for a deep theological exploration.

R.C. Sproul's Dual Approach to the Question

Timestamp: [01:30]
Sproul outlines two distinct responses to the question about the "poor innocent native":

1. Stimulative Trick Answer:

   • “The poor innocent native in Africa doesn't have a thing to worry about. He goes directly to heaven. He has a free ride for eternal life.”
   • Purpose: This answer is designed to provoke deeper contemplation and highlight underlying assumptions in the question itself.

2. Serious, Sober Answer:

   • Addresses the theological implications more earnestly, focusing on human sinfulness and the universality of the need for salvation through Christ.

Challenging the Assumption of Innocence

Sproul contends that there are no "innocent" people universally, as the Bible asserts the universality of sin.
“According to the Bible, there are no innocent people. The whole world has been brought before the tribunal of God and determined to be guilty.”
He references the Apostle Paul’s emphasis on universal sinfulness, illustrating this with Billy Graham’s frequent citation of Romans 3:23: “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.”

The Problem with the "No Rejection" Assumption

Sproul acknowledges a common rebuttal: those who have never heard of Christ haven't rejected Him, potentially exempting them from condemnation.
“They don't have to worry ever about God's judging them negatively or punitively for rejecting Jesus, of whom they've never heard.”
However, he challenges this relief by introducing the rejection of God the Father as a fundamental sin, regardless of individuals' awareness of Christ.

Divine Revelation and Human Accountability

Sproul emphasizes that God has made Himself undeniably known through creation and inherent understanding:
“God the Father has revealed Himself plainly and clearly to every human being who is alive on this planet.”
He cites Psalm 19 and Romans 1 to argue that everyone possesses an inherent knowledge of God's existence and righteousness, which leads to accountability.

The Wrath of God Against Suppression of Truth

Delving into Romans 1:18-19, Sproul explains that God's wrath is directed not at righteousness but at the suppression of truth:
“This wrath is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness.”
He clarifies that the specific sin is the suppression and rejection of the clear revelation of God, making humanity "without excuse."

The Futility of the Ignorance Excuse

Sproul dismisses the notion that ignorance—lack of knowledge about God—can absolve individuals from judgment:
“Paul said that excuse is ripped away because... God exists and you know it. He has made it absolutely plain and you have rejected him.”
He asserts that everyone is accountable based on the clear revelation they have received.

Call to Action

In concluding his message, Sproul urges Christians to take responsibility for evangelism:
“If you care about a lost humanity who doesn't know Christ, let me remind you... do something about it, that you make sure that they do.”
He underscores the urgency of sharing the Gospel and not resting on the false assumption of innate innocence.

Notable Quotes

• R.C. Sproul [00:00]: “If we have any concern for people, if we have any compassion for people, we must ask the question, what happens to people who have never, ever had the opportunity to hear about Christ?”

• R.C. Sproul [01:30]: “The poor innocent native in Africa doesn't have a thing to worry about. He goes directly to heaven. He has a free ride for eternal life.”

• R.C. Sproul [24:06]: “Everyone without Christ is lost. That increases the urgency to bring the Gospel to our dying world.”

Conclusion

"The Innocent Native" episode offers a thorough theological examination of the fate of those who have never encountered Christ. R.C. Sproul dismantles common assumptions of innocence by asserting the pervasive nature of human sin and the universal revelation of God. He calls Christians to active participation in evangelism, emphasizing that the salvation of every soul is paramount and a reflection of genuine Christian compassion.

For listeners seeking to deepen their understanding of apologetics and address similar theological questions, this episode serves as a compelling resource. [End of Summary]