Racial Prejudice in the Name of God - it’s a Sin thing

Racism and abuse in religious circles is all too frequent. Uniqueness versus superiority is a concept that we struggle with, tending to magnify our uniquenesses or differences to others into a reason we are superior over them. Whether it's racial differences, educational differences, cultural differences or religious differences, it is all too often the case that we see these differences not merely as variety but as evidence of inferiority or superiority. But the problem is not our differences. Neither is the problem religion in and of itself. Actually, it's a sin thing! Sin has the ability to hijack and distort just about anything for the purpose of exalting ourselves over others.

In this context, the Bible is clear that we are called to be counter cultural. We are called to love those who are different to us - even those who we disagree with morally or religiously. There is too much hate in religion. There is too much racism in religion. There is too much abuse of power in the church and too much abuse of power in leadership. The reality is that it's not only the abuse of power and privilege within religion that's a problem but also the abuse of religion itself. Racial prejudice in the name of God is one of the worst distortions of the heart of God for humanity. Racial prejudice in the name of God also leads to the worst kind of abuse toward people because if God is on my side, then I am actually acting in the right and with impunity!

Nevertheless, an accurate reading of the Bible will reveal that ALL people, regardless of uniqueness and difference are one family and loved equally by the Heavenly Father. What does genuine spirituality look like? Genuine spirituality reaches outward to others in love, compassion and acts of service. Jesus told the story of the Good Samaritan to highlight what true spirituality is and to reveal that love triumphs over hate. It takes someone willing to break the cycle of hate and abuse, choosing rather to love their professed enemies. The parable of the Good Samaritan reveals the true standard of genuine spirituality.

This video was produced in partnership with Hope Channel New Zealand and originally aired on television under the title "More than a Story: You've Got a Friend in Me" (episode 18 of 24).