Life as an Apartheid Advocate
Beyers Naudé was born into a family deeply rooted in Afrikaner nationalism in Roodepoort, Transvaal, in 1915. As a young man, he followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a respected minister in the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) and a member of the Afrikaner Broederbond. For many years, Beyers believed apartheid was biblically justified. However, the Sharpeville Massacre in 1960, where police killed 69 peaceful Black protesters, deeply shook him. This tragic event prompted Beyers to re-evaluate his understanding of the Bible. As he studied the scriptures, he realized that apartheid was unjust and contrary to God's teachings.
God Changed His Racist Heart
In 1963, Beyers made a courageous decision that would alter the course of his life. He resigned from the Broederbond and publicly condemned apartheid from the pulpit of his church, proclaiming, as Mason writes, 'It was, he said, a choice between obedience in faith and subjection to the authority of the church. He must obey God rather than man.' This act led to his expulsion from the DRC and ostracization by his community. However, the Black community embraced Beyers and his family, offering them a new spiritual home.
Becoming a Reconciliation Leader
Beyers founded the Christian Institute, a non-racial ecumenical organization that challenged the church establishment and provided humanitarian relief. Despite facing harassment and house arrest for his beliefs, Beyers continued to advocate for racial reconciliation and justice. His commitment to truth and justice was unwavering, and he became a leading Afrikaner anti-apartheid activist.
Faith Through Persecution
Throughout his journey, Beyers leaned on his faith and God's guidance. He once remarked about his wife, 'Whatever happens, we will be together and God will be with us.' His life was a testament to the power of divine intervention, as God provided strength and community support during his persecution.
Beyers Naudé's transformation from an apartheid supporter to a beacon of hope for racial reconciliation in South Africa is a powerful story of God's work in one man's life. His legacy continues to inspire those committed to justice and peace.
