The End of Prejudice - The Motive for Fighting Prejudice

Prejudice violates a fundamental principle that Jesus taught:  "Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you. Meaning, if you want others to be kind to you, then you must return that kindness.  (Matthew 7:12) Who would want to be despised simply because of his birthplace, skin color, or background?  Prejudice also violates God's standards of impartiality.  The Bible teaches that Jehovah "made out of one man every nation of men to dwell upon the entire surface of the earth." (Acts 17:26) All men, therefore, are brothers.

Moreover, God judges each person individually. He does not condemn a person for what his or her parents or ancestors did.  (Ezekiel 18:20; Romans 2:6)  Even oppression by another nation is not a valid cause for hating individuals from that nation, who likely bear not personal responsibility for the injustice. Jesus taught his followers to 'love their enemies and pray for those persecuting them.' -Matthew 5:44, 45. 

Thanks to such teachings, first-century Christians were helped to conquer their prejudices and become a  unique international brotherhood.  They called one another brothers and sisters and considered themselves to be such, even though they came from a host of different cultures.  (Colossians  3:9-11)  The principles that powered this transformation can produce the same benefits today.

Next time: The End of Prejudice - Fighting Prejudice Today

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