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In a world increasingly divided by outward appearance, we must recognize a hard truth: Racism is not merely a social issue, it is a manifestation of the spirit of ignorance. God does not show favoritism (Romans 2:11).
The Bible offers a roadmap for healing. 2 Chronicles 7:14 calls us to humble ourselves and turn from our "wicked ways" so that God may heal our land. To continue in hatred is to remain in the dark, as 1 John 2:9 warns: “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.”
This
"spirit of ignorance" is best illustrated by the tragedy of Cain and Abel (Genesis 4). Though they shared the same blood and the same Creator, envy led to destruction.
Today, we see similar divisions based on skin color, yet we were all created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27).
We often focus on the exterior, but Scripture reminds us that God's perspective is internal. Psalm 139:3-4 states that He is familiar with all our ways and knows our words before we speak them. As 1 Samuel 16:7 famously declares, “People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Clinging to divisions based on pigmentation is the height of folly. Biblical ignorance is not a lack of information, but a refusal to see others as God sees them. As Proverbs 4:7 teaches, the beginning of wisdom is to get understanding.
We must repent of hatred and embrace one another with Agape love. Jesus gave us a clear command: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another” (John 13:34). Regardless of skin color, what truly matters is our spiritual standing:
“Salvation is found in no one else... under heaven... by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).
Let us unite in prayer, and remember the notable quote from Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character," from the “I Have a Dream” speech.” The late Bishop G.E. Patterson would say, "Be healed, be delivered, and be set free in Jesus Christ's name!" I pray we all be delivered from the ignorance that divides us. I’ll end with this question: What is the reason for your animosity toward the other race? God bless America!
Sincerely,
CJ Leigh, Antioch 37013
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This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Judging people by skin color defies biblical teaching | Letters
