A Light in the Darkness of Human Trafficking (with Eddie Byun)
Feb 13, 2024
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Eddie Byun, author of 'A Light in the Darkness', discusses human trafficking and the church's responsibility. Topics include prevention, intervention, and restoration methods, sex trafficking in massage parlors, advocating for stronger laws, engaging with others, and the role of churches in pursuing justice.
The church plays a vital role in combating human trafficking by actively engaging in practical ways to address the issue within their communities.
Stronger laws, punishments, and deterrents are necessary to reduce demand and disrupt the operations of human traffickers.
Deep dives
The Urgency of Combatting Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is a global phenomenon that demands immediate action. Driven by his own personal involvement in South Korea, Dr. A.D.B.N. emphasizes the need to address this issue as he shares his experiences combating human trafficking. With an estimated tens of millions of victims worldwide, including women, children, men, and boys, human trafficking is a deeply evil and depraved industry. The church has a vital role to play in this fight, not only by preaching the gospel but also by actively engaging in practical ways to combat the injustice. Dr. A.D.B.N. encourages churches to prayerfully brainstorm and develop action plans specific to their communities to become a light and salt in the darkness.
The Cultural Challenges and Opposition within Human Trafficking
The battle against human trafficking encounters various cultural challenges and unexpected opposition. Dr. A.D.B.N. recounts his experiences in South Korea, where cultural norms and shame-based attitudes caused discomfort and resistance among believers. Some even questioned the relevance of addressing human trafficking within the church. Additionally, the fight against human trafficking faces significant opposition from corrupt institutions and individuals involved in the multi-billion dollar industry. Dr. A.D.B.N. highlights the need for stronger laws, punishments, and deterrents to reduce demand and disrupt the operations of traffickers.
The Importance of Faith in the Recovery Process
The recovery process for survivors of human trafficking is complex and challenging. Victims, often having experienced extensive physical and emotional abuse, require psychological counseling, trauma care, and emotional healing. Dr. A.D.B.N. emphasizes the vital role of the church in providing support and care for these survivors. By extending love, grace, and the transformative power of the gospel, the church can help survivors rebuild their lives. Education, vocational training, and opportunities for holistic growth are essential elements in their journey towards healing and restoration.
The Global Scope of Human Trafficking and Our Call to Action
Human trafficking is a global issue, affecting every country and community. Dr. A.D.B.N. sheds light on the widespread nature of this crime, emphasizing the urgent need for action. This includes raising awareness, supporting anti-trafficking organizations, advocating for stronger legislation, and providing resources for survivors. The church, as a catalyst for change, has a responsibility to stand against human trafficking and work towards its eradication.
What can and should we do about the evil of human trafficking? What is the church’s responsibility and what can the church do to help combat this worldwide phenomenon? We’ll discuss this with our guest, Talbot colleague Dr. Eddie Byun around his newly published and revised book on the subject — A Light In the Darkness.
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith and Culture is a podcast from Talbot School of Theology at Biola University, which offers degrees both online and on campus in Southern California.
To submit comments, ask questions, or make suggestions on issues you'd like us to cover or guests you'd like us to have on the podcast, email us at thinkbiblically@biola.edu.
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