The Bible and Racism
"God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwells not in temples made with hands... And has made of one blood all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation..." Acts 17:24-26.
The Bible teaches that God created all mankind for His pleasure - and that He does not show favoritism:
"Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism, but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right." Acts 10:34.
The Scriptures that relate the Jewish people as "God's Chosen" do not teach that this choice was because He was showing any racial preference:
"The LORD did not set his love upon you, or choose you, because you were more in number than any people; for you were the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because He would keep the oath which He had sworn to your fathers, has the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand..." Deut. 7:7-8.
God made a nation from the descendants of one faithful man, Abraham, by which He would bring about salvation for ALL people:
"And the angel of the LORD called to Abraham out of heaven the second time...And in your seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because you have obeyed My voice." Gen. 22:15,18.
Jesus has often been portrayed through the centuries by misguided artists as a white man, many times with blond hair! But the Scripture teaches that Jesus was a direct descendant of Abraham, through the tribe of Judah. He was a Mediterranean Jew of the first century, and if He were of average complexion for that time He would have been darker skinned than even many modern blacks.
Skin color, national origin, and other physical considerations are unimportant to God. What matters to Him is a repentant, humble heart. His sacrifice on the cross was in payment for the sins of men and women in every place for all time. Hypocrisy in His name has brought confusion and rejection of the gospel among many peoples, but this is the fault of men, not God. One day, all who have received His love and forgiveness will gather together in His presence in perfect peace and unity:
"...for you (Jesus) were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And have made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth." Revelation 5:9-10.
Believe, Admit, Repent,
RECEIVE JESUS!
Heb.11:6 Rom.10:9 Acts 3:19 John 1:12
