Christian Response To Racial And Ethnic Discrimination Series

CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO RACIAL AND ETHNIC DISCRIMINATION

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Galatians 3:28, Acts 10:34-35

Supporting Texts: James 2:1-9, Revelation 7:9, Colossians 3:11, Matthew 22:37-40, John 13:34-35

INTRODUCTION:

Racial and ethnic discrimination remains a painful reality in many societies and, regrettably, even within the Church. From subtle prejudice to systemic injustice, humanity continues to be divided by skin colour, tribal heritage, and cultural identity. Yet the gospel of Jesus Christ is a message of reconciliation that transcends all such divisions.

In Christ, there is no Jew or Gentile, no superior tribe or class. The cross dismantled every barrier and gave birth to a new identity rooted in the love and grace of God. A true Christian cannot walk in hatred, superiority, or bias and claim to walk in the Spirit.

This message challenges us to uphold kingdom values of equality, love, and justice. Our faith calls us to honour the image of God in every person, regardless of their race, language, or background. The Church must be a healing voice in a divided world.

1. ALL PEOPLE ARE CREATED EQUAL IN GOD’S IMAGE

Every human being reflects the divine image and deserves dignity and respect.

a) God Created One Human Race (Genesis 1:27)

We all carry the image of God, regardless of external differences.

b) There Is No Partiality with God (Acts 10:34-35)

Peter learned that God accepts all who fear Him and do what is right.

c) Discrimination Is a Violation of God’s Design (James 2:1-4)

Favouritism contradicts the character of our God and must be rejected.

d) In Christ, There Is Unity in Diversity (Galatians 3:28)

Believers are united in Christ, above all natural distinctions.

Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman (John 4:7-26) experienced grace across ethnic lines when Jesus broke social norms to bring her the gospel.

2. THE CHURCH MUST MODEL UNITY AND LOVE ACROSS ALL DIVIDES

The Church is called to be a living example of racial and ethnic harmony.

a) Love Is the Mark of True Discipleship (John 13:34-35)

Our love for one another, not our similarities, shows we belong to Christ.

b) The Church Is a Multinational Family of Faith (Revelation 7:9)

Heaven is filled with people from every nation, tribe, and tongue.

c) Tribalism and Racism Must Die at the Cross (Colossians 3:11)

In Christ, cultural superiority has no place; Christ is all in all.

d) Peace and Justice Are Core Kingdom Values (Isaiah 1:17)

We are called to seek justice and correct oppression as God’s ambassadors.

Biblical Example: In Acts 13:1, the Church in Antioch had diverse leaders, including Africans and Jews, demonstrating early racial unity.

3. BELIEVERS MUST BE AGENTS OF HEALING AND ADVOCATES OF JUSTICE

We must speak out and act against injustice wherever it exists.

a) Speak for the Oppressed and Marginalised (Proverbs 31:8-9)

Use your voice to defend those who are treated unfairly.

b) Reconcile Differences, Don’t Fuel Division (Matthew 5:9)

Peacemakers are called sons of God and must mend societal wounds.

c) Build Bridges, Not Barriers (Romans 12:18)

As much as it depends on us, we must live in peace with everyone.

d) Let Your Light Shine in a Divided World (Matthew 5:14-16)

Our love and justice should reveal God’s character to the world.

Biblical Example: Philemon was challenged by Paul to receive Onesimus no longer as a slave but as a beloved brother (Philemon 1:15-16).

CONCLUSION:

Racial and ethnic discrimination is a sin that the body of Christ must confront with courage and conviction. As believers, we are called to model a new humanity—one where love, justice, and honour flow across every colour, tribe, and language. We must reject all forms of partiality and represent the heart of God in our conduct, speech, and relationships.

Let us rise to become voices of healing in a broken world, showing that in Christ, we are truly one. May our churches reflect the diversity of heaven and the unity of the Spirit, drawing others to Jesus through the love we demonstrate across every human divide.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, cleanse my heart of every hidden prejudice or bias.

2. Father, make me an ambassador of love, unity, and justice.

3. Raise a Church that reflects heaven’s diversity and harmony.

4. Heal the wounds caused by racism, tribalism, and injustice in our land.

5. Empower me to speak out boldly against discrimination in all forms.