Discrimination is a very painful and all too common reality in our world. It can take many forms, from subtle exclusion to outright persecution – and sadly, it has been part of the human experience for a long time. But as believers in Jesus Christ, we should strive to combat discrimination wherever we find it. The Bible itself speaks out strongly against discrimination and gives us many powerful examples of how to show love instead. Here are 10 Bible verses about discrimination that can help us stand up against injustice and work towards a more peaceful, united world.
Scripture about Discrimination
10 Bible Verses about Discrimination
Galatians 3:28 ESV
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 5:14 ESV
For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
James 2:2-4 ESV
For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
Galatians 3:27-29 ESV
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s offspring, heirs according to promise.
Romans 2:11 ESV
For God shows no partiality.
Matthew 5:44 ESV
But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
Matthew 7:12 ESV
“So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
Mark 12:31 ESV
The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
Acts 10:34 ESV
So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality,
Proverbs 6:16-19 ESV
There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.
Scripture about Discrimination KJV
My favorite Scripture about discrimination from the King James Version is James 2: 1-9. This passage explains that as believers, we should treat everyone equally regardless of their outward appearance or background. It reminds us not to show partiality and how to practice true love and hospitality despite any cultural differences. This passage has been a source of comfort, understanding, and strength during times when I feel judged or out of place because of my ethnicity or social status. It reminds me that I am valuable and promises that God is with me no matter what society says.
FAQ about Discrimination in the Bible
The Bible emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect and kindness, regardless of any differences in race, gender, class, or culture. In James 2:1-9 we are reminded not to show partiality and how to demonstrate true love for others by being hospitable and welcoming.
Christianity emphasizes the importance of equality, regardless of a person’s race, gender, social status, or other characteristics. The Bible teaches that we are all made in the image of God and should be treated with love and dignity. It also calls for justice and fairness to be exercised in our relationships and interactions with others. Jesus often spoke about caring for society’s marginalized and outcast, emphasizing that everyone deserves respect regardless of their position or standing in life. Christianity believes that inequality is a violation of God’s will, and must be addressed through empathy and compassionate action.
The Bible speaks often about the importance of respecting diversity and recognizing that all people, regardless of their differences, have God-given value. In Galatians 3:27-29, we are reminded to treat everyone equally and not to judge others based on outward appearance or cultural background. In Romans 2:11, Paul writes that in Christ there is no distinction between the Jew and the Greek, and therefore everyone should be treated with respect. God created us to be in community with each other, so we must strive to honor our differences and celebrate the beauty of diversity.
The Bible is clear that God has given us human rights and these should be protected in all circumstances. In 1 Timothy 5:1-2, Paul instructs believers to treat everyone with respect and dignity as they are children of God. In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus teaches that it is our duty to care for those in need, including those who are persecuted and oppressed. The Bible also tells us that we should never stand idly by when others are suffering, but instead take action to bring about justice and help those in need. Through these passages, the Bible encourages us to extend compassion and protection to everyone without discrimination or prejudice.