Every Race
In Christ there is not Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all.
Colossians 3:11 (CSB)
Unfortunately, we confront the reality of racism and various forms of biased thinking regarding others based on their race. We make judgments and respond to individuals according to the color of their skin or other barriers created by humanity. The truth is that God is the Creator of all races. All races are created equal. Every person of every race is wonderfully and fearfully made. Each individual, regardless of race, holds great value and worth. When we reflect on the nature of humanity, we must recognize the equality in creation and the price Christ paid for all people of all races so that everyone could have the opportunity to receive Christ as Lord and Savior.
THE RESTORED SELF BREAKS RACIAL BARRIERS
Racial barriers form due to worldly and fleshly perspectives. The fallen nature of humanity and the pride of self drive people to view other races in unbiblical and inappropriate ways. When the sacrifice of Christ is fully understood, the believer realizes that race is not a divider but a part of God’s beauty in creation. The change of heart that occurs in salvation is the catalyst for breaking the barrier of racism.
THE RESTORED SELF BREAKS RELIGIOUS BARRIERS
Religious barriers become boundaries that allow division to set in. As followers of Christ, believers hold to the exclusiveness of Christ for salvation. At the same time, believers must respect those who differ in their beliefs and seek to share with them the truth of the gospel so that they may respond to Jesus. The religious barriers must not hinder the sharing of the gospel. Believers must extend love to all people with the hope that this love will point them to Christ.
THE RESTORED SELF BREAKS CULTURAL BARRIERS
Cultural barriers may include religious or racial divisions but also encompass obstacles arising from cultural practices that divide us. These differences create separation by causing discomfort and prompting individuals to question each other. Followers of Christ view cultural barriers through Christ's perspective and see them as opportunities for gospel engagement. Believers honor people in their natural surroundings and strive to break down barriers in order to extend the love of Christ.
THE RESTORED SELF BREAKS SOCIAL BARRIERS
Society exists broken into various social barriers. These barriers include divisions of economic status, political status, and educational status. These social barriers are man-made and exist because of the flesh and pride. The barriers are fueled by the value placed on people based on one’s own life and personal opinion of worth influenced by such barriers. In Christ, these barriers disappear because He is the barrier breaker who works in the lives of believers to help them see others through the eyes of Christ.
QUESTIONS
What barriers do you struggle to allow Christ to break in your life?
If we recognize that God has created all people, then how does our perspective of their value, worth, and dignity change?
