Racism is an attitude or action that discriminates against people based on race, skin color, or ethnicity. In many cases, racism causes injustice, inner wounds, and division. As followers of Christ, how should we view and respond to this issue?
All People Are Equal Before God
The Bible clearly teaches that all people are created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). No race or ethnic group is higher or lower in God’s eyes. In Acts 10:34-35, Peter said, “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality. But in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.”
Racism stands in direct opposition to this truth.
Jesus Broke Down the Dividing Wall
In Jesus’ day, Jews and Samaritans looked down on one another. Yet Jesus crossed that boundary when He spoke with the Samaritan woman (John 4:7-9) and even made her a witness of the gospel. The apostle Paul affirmed that in Christ “there is neither Jew nor Greek” (Galatians 3:28). Unity in Christ goes beyond ethnic differences.
Loving Like Christ
Racism arises from a heart filled with hatred or prejudice. But Jesus commanded, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). To love means:
- Respecting the dignity of every person.
- Listening to their experiences and suffering.
- Not joining in spreading stereotypes or degrading jokes.
Becoming Agents of Reconciliation
2 Corinthians 5:18 says that God has given us the ministry of reconciliation. Christians are called to be peacemakers, not instigators of division. In the context of racism, this means:
- Having the courage to correct racist attitudes or words.
- Standing with those who are victims of injustice.
- Opening space for dialogue to build understanding.
Correcting Our Own Hearts
Sometimes we do not realize that we are carrying bias or prejudice toward certain ethnic groups or races. Psalm 139:23-24 is a fitting prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart… and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Change must begin in the heart before it is seen in action.
Conclusion
Racism is not in line with the gospel. Christians are called to see every person as a valuable creation of God, to love without partiality, and to be peacemakers in a divided world. Facing racism is not only about defending justice, but also about reflecting the heart of Christ who loves all people.
