Christianity teaches that we are all ‘one in Christ’. To me, this means that we are all equal and are united together as one people by God. If we are all one in Christ, then no person should be discriminated against by a different person. In Genesis 1: 27 it reads “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them”. This shows that Christianity is a welcoming religion for people of all ethnicities as we are all made in the image of God. If we delve into the first passage that states we are ‘one in Christ’ further, it reads “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus”. To my understanding, this means that we are all members of one community as humans, no matter your background, gender, culture, opinions, ethnicity or race.
This scripture can help us to understand God’s call to welcome all peoples by showing us that we are all the same. We are all humans, and to discriminate against others is going against your own people in your own community as humans. This idea is supported by many different passages of scripture in the Holy Bible. Acts 10:34 reads “So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality”. Romans 10:12 reads “For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him”. Acts 17:26 reads “And he made from one man every nation of mankind”. All these passages support the idea that all people are equal. All people deserve to not be discriminated against.
Black History Month was created to focus attention on the contributions of African Americans to the United States. It honours all Black people from all periods of U.S. history, from the enslaved people first brought over from Africa in the early 17th century to African Americans living in the United States today. This month has been adopted worldwide in celebration of black history and culture. Black history is world history. Black History Month represents Black influence around the world. We not only celebrate the Black astronauts, scientists, inventors, artists, and activists of the past; we also celebrate the rise of Black business, arts, and literature that will influence the future.
John 7:24 states “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment”
The word of God calls us to not see a person by the colour of their skin, but by their character and personality.
Watch the Black History Month thanksgiving service, held at Southwark Cathedral on 1 October, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EP1jW_cB6Jw
