Topical Encyclopedia Bigotry, defined as an obstinate or intolerant devotion to one's own opinions and prejudices, is addressed in various forms throughout the New Testament. The Apostle Paul, a pivotal figure in early Christianity, provides a robust argument against bigotry, emphasizing unity and equality among believers in Christ.Paul's Teachings on Unity and Equality Paul's epistles frequently address the divisions and prejudices that threatened the early Christian communities. In his letter to the Galatians, Paul makes a profound statement on the equality of all believers: "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). This declaration underscores the breaking down of social, ethnic, and gender barriers within the body of Christ, promoting a vision of unity that transcends human divisions. The Body of Christ In 1 Corinthians 12, Paul uses the metaphor of the body to illustrate the interconnectedness and interdependence of believers. He writes, "For just as the body is one and has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also is Christ" (1 Corinthians 12:12). Paul emphasizes that each member, regardless of their background or status, is essential to the functioning of the whole. This teaching directly opposes any form of bigotry that would elevate one group over another or dismiss the contributions of any individual. The Law of Love Paul's argument against bigotry is further rooted in the law of love, which he describes as the fulfillment of the law. In Romans 13:8-10, he writes, "Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law. The commandments... are summed up in this one decree: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' Love does no wrong to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law" . This principle of love serves as a guiding ethic that dismantles prejudice and promotes acceptance and understanding among believers. The Example of Christ Paul consistently points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of humility and selflessness. In Philippians 2:3-5, he exhorts believers, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" . By encouraging believers to adopt the mindset of Christ, Paul advocates for an attitude that is antithetical to bigotry, one that values others above oneself and seeks the common good. Reconciliation and Peace Paul's mission to the Gentiles and his efforts to reconcile Jewish and Gentile believers further illustrate his stance against bigotry. In Ephesians 2:14-16, he writes, "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility... His purpose was to create in Himself one new man out of the two, thus making peace, and to reconcile both of them to God in one body through the cross" . This passage highlights the reconciling work of Christ, which Paul sees as the foundation for overcoming divisions and fostering peace among diverse groups. Conclusion Paul's teachings provide a comprehensive argument against bigotry, rooted in the principles of unity, love, and reconciliation. His vision for the church is one where all believers, regardless of their differences, are united in Christ and committed to living out the love and humility exemplified by their Savior. Nave's Topical Index Romans 3:1-23What advantage then has the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? Nave's Topical Index Romans 4:1-16,23-25 Library The Conservative Reaction, and the Liberal victory -- Papal Infallibility Explained, and Tested by Tradition and ... Condemned to Die The Acts of the Apostles. Concluding Remarks on the Importance of Orthodoxy On Zeal The Gentile Christian Theology. Paul and the Gospel of Faith. Sources and Literature of the Apostolic Age. Luke. Literature of Church History. Resources What does the Bible say about illegal immigration? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God harden Pharaoh's heart? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about being in jail or prison? | GotQuestions.org Unjust: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bigotry in Opposing the Preaching of the Gospel to the Gentiles Bigotry in Regard to Circumcision Bigotry in Rejecting the Teachings of Jesus at Nazareth Bigotry in Their Treatment of the Young Man Who Was Born Blind, Whom Jesus Restored to Sight Bigotry of Being a Gluttonous Man and a Winebibber (A Wino) Bigotry of John in Forbidding the Casting out of Demons by One Who did not Follow Jesus Bigotry of Keeping Company With Sinners Bigotry of not Conforming to the Traditions Bigotry of Saul, in Persecuting the Christians Bigotry of the Disciples in Forbidding Children to be Brought to Jesus Bigotry of the Samaritans in Refusing to Receive Jesus Bigotry with Regard to Paul's Preaching Bigotry: Falsely Accusing Jesus of Blasphemy Bigotry: General Scriptures Concerning Bigotry: Jews With Regard to the Samaritans Bigotry: Joshua, Through Envy, Seeking to Suppress Eldad and Medad, Who Were Prophesying Bigotry: Paul's Argument Against Related Terms |
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