Nationwide — Philip Anthony Mitchell, an Atlanta, Georgia-based pastor, apologized after facing criticism for suggesting that some police killings of Black people could have been avoided if they had obeyed officers. His remarks sparked debate among Black Christians and social media users, many of whom said his message ignored the experiences of Black Americans who have been killed by police despite following commands.
The controversy followed an April 13 sermon at 2819 Church, where Mitchell discussed the biblical teaching on respecting government authority, according to Christianity Today. Drawing from Matthew 22:15–22, he explained how Jesus instructed people to give Caesar what belonged to Caesar and God what belonged to God. Mitchell interpreted the passage as a reminder that Christians should respect earthly authorities, even when they disagree with those in power. He used examples such as paying taxes and following parking regulations before turning to interactions between Black people and law enforcement.
During that part of the sermon, he argued that not every police killing of a Black man resulted from an officer’s misconduct. He also urged parents to teach their children to follow instructions from law enforcement. “Stop blaming white cops for the killing of Black kids. Instead, teach your Black children to be obedient to authority,” he said. The comments drew criticism from people who believed he placed the responsibility on Black families without giving enough attention to police brutality, racial discrimination and the history of strained relations between Black communities and law enforcement. Others defended his biblical interpretation, and some members of the congregation appeared to agree with his message.
Mitchell also shared an experience from when he was 15 and living in Queens, New York. He recalled walking down the street when a police officer got out of a patrol car, grabbed him by the neck and slammed him against a brick wall. The officer then pointed a gun at his neck and dared him to say something. Mitchell said he remembered his mother’s advice to respect authority and avoid trouble with police. He described the moment as a choice between giving in to his anger and submitting to the officer. However, critics said his personal experience did not address the broader issue of police violence against Black people. UrbanLogia Ministries founder Damon Richardson agreed with Mitchell’s explanation of the biblical passage but questioned how he connected it to policing. He said the pastor should have also discussed the history of over-policing and challenged law enforcement abuses.
In an Instagram statement, Mitchell acknowledged that his comments about Black children and their interactions with police were harmful. He also recognized that Black Americans have been killed by officers regardless of whether they followed commands. He said the way he used his teenage encounter to explain the issue was not helpful and should have included more context. Mitchell added that leading a large congregation and reaching people online came with a responsibility to recognize when his words caused harm. He received support from several Black Christian figures, including podcast host Megan Ashley, writer Preston Perry and worship musician Eddie James. James said he understood the point Mitchell wanted to make but also recognized why people who had experienced abuse from authorities could interpret his remarks differently.