“The Bible On Racism”
Sermon Series: “No Longer A Slave”
Introduction: Even though we have made major strides, we obviously still have significant racial issues in our nation. In light of that and in the context of studying the book of Philemon, which pictures a relationship between a slave and a master, it seems proper for us to examine the question, “What does the Bible say about racism?” We will also try to answer some questions that are related to this main question.
This is the principle that we saw last week in the book of Philemon. The love of God imparted through the cross of Christ transforms human relationships by filling us with love for others. Does this principle apply to all people and relationships, regardless of race? That is the question before us this morning. We will answer this question from Scripture, but before we do that, here is the definition of racism according to Google. It says, “The belief that all members of each race possess characteristics or abilities specific to that race, especially so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races. Prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one’s own race is superior.”
Let’s begin looking at this Scripturally be examining the Parable of the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:25-37. Based on this parable, I think we can slightly restate the principle and say the following. The love of God imparted through the cross of Christ transforms human relationships by filling us with love for [ALL] others [REGARDLESS OF RACE]. Here is an outline of this parable:
1. We are commanded to love our neighbors as ourselves.
2. Everybody is our neighbor so everybody is to be loved.
3. Love is expressed by sacrificial actions.
Here is further biblical proof of this principle:
1. Every person is made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).
2. There is one race, the human race, because we are all descended from Adam and Eve (Genesis 2:21-24).
3. We cannot love God and hate other people (1 John 4:20-21).
4. Those of us who are in Christ are identified by Him and not our outward characteristics, and we are one in Him (Galatians 3:26-28).
5. Jesus died for all in order to create an eternal community of worshippers around His throne from every nation, tribe, people and tongue (Revelation 7:9-10). How can we reject those whom God accepts through Jesus? How can we not love those whom Jesus loved enough to die for? How can we can not want to be with those whom God wants to be with eternally?
Here are some questions associated with our main question that we should consider?
- Does the Bible teach that slavery is morally acceptable?
2. Why do I support equal rights for all “races,” but I am opposed to homosexuals having the right to marry?
3. Is interracial marriage acceptable to God?
4. Should a Christian display a Confederate flag?
Conclusion: This is a gospel issue (Galatians 2:11-21). Our lives are to be controlled and directed by the love of Jesus imparted through the cross. That love is to control and direct how we treat others, no matter their outward characteristics.
