Megachurch Pastor Judah Smith Calls on Christians to be 'Bridge-Builders' for Race Relations in U.S.

Megachurch pastor Judah Smith has recently called on Christians to become "bridge-builders" and peacemakers regarding the racial tension in the United States following the recent racially-fueled shooting in Charleston, South Carolina.

Speaking in a recent video message shared online, The City Church pastor said that he wants to see Christians implement a change for a better future.

"Recently, the shooting in Charleston, South Carolina, had a very deep impact to me and in my heart and in my mind," Smith said in the message. "Of course, at it's core is the issue of race and racism and prejudice and hatred."

"I want to be committed to being part of the solution and not a part of the problem. And I think part of the problem is ignorance. Part of the problem is indifference," Smith added.

"I want to encourage each and every one of us to be bridge-builders, to be those who are committed to reconciliation," he continued, adding "We can't fix this problem overnight. It is one of the core issues and problems that are paramount in the United States of America."

"And I'm praying and I want to urge you and your family to pray, that God by His spirit, the spirit of Jesus, would enable us and allow us to know where to go from here," Smith said. "That we would be an agent of reconciliation and healing, first and foremost in our own neighborhoods, in our own cul-de-sacs and communities. In times like this, we're obligated in a very beautiful and wonderful way, we have a responsibility, an extraordinary opportunity as Jesus followers to live, love and look like Jesus."

The June 17 shooting at an African American church in Charleston, Texas was carried out by 21-year-old Dylann Roof, who said he carried out the massacre to start a race war in the U.S.