My Thoughts on Bigotry Practiced by Christians
Strong dislike for a person simply for belonging to a different ethnic group is irrational. Believing in Christ for salvation is a great starting point to overcome that sentiment. As a black man, I have experienced bigotry before my conversion as a youth and an adult. But, I also got mistreated by black family members and so-called black “friends.” It’s a long story. I admire pastors who foster unity in diversity. Psalm 133 is a key passage for support. Looking back at the many discussions in which I have participated and observed, I always see the need for balance. What I mean is that accusations of bigotry are sometimes exaggerated and make the accuser look like a helpless victim. It naturally arouses sympathy for the “victim” and animosity toward the accused. Plus, the focus is primarily narrowed down only to bigotry on the part of white people. What about bigotry shown by Asians, Mexicans, and even Black people? Only the cross of Christ, in which every ethnic group needs to trust, can solve that problem. Even then, believers need to overcome fear and suspicion rooted in prejudice and begin to interact with at least each other and grow spiritually by sharing their faith with the unsaved of all ethnic (“nations”) groups (Matt. 28:19). Bigotry among believers is disgusting and hypocritical (1 John 4:20-21). It’s not going away until there are a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 22). In the meantime, we have to renounce it, avoid it, and rebuke believers who practice it (Gal. 2:11-14). Bigotry is as old as the Tower of Babel but can be overcome by love, humility, and respect for others. May God help us believers.
Blessings!
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