Counsels on Social Issue

Counsel #11 — Unity In Racial Diversity

Picture: Counsel #11 — Unity In Racial Diversity CSI 30.1

To achieve unity in racial diversity, we must first understand why it often fails. True unity cannot exist if one group views others as inferior. Sin introduced hierarchy, but this is a human construct, not from God. In reality, we are all infinitely less than God, and the distinctions we create—whether by race, class, or education—are insignificant in comparison. Understanding our position relative to God reveals that human-made hierarchies are unjustifiable. CSI 30.2

Racial divisions persist because not all races are seen as equal or fully human—attitudes that justify slavery, genocide, and exclusion. This mindset exposes a belief that some are entitled to more than others. However, as God created all humans equal, we must recognize our true position. Isaiah, in God's presence, understood his own insignificance and exclaimed, “Woe is me, for I am undone!”^[65] When we grasp how small we are before God, we cannot view others as lesser. CSI 30.3

Our failure to recognize this leads to division. We imagine God in our own image, rather than allowing Him to restore us to His image. Recognizing our shared need for God’s restoration is the only path to true unity—because there is only one race: the human race.^[66] CSI 30.4

"… [M]ake every effort to preserve the unity of the Spirit with the peace that ties you together." Ephesians 4:3 CEB CSI 30.5

“Differences of character exist by nature, but our unity depends upon the degree in which we yield to the transforming influence of the Spirit of God.” Ellen White in Our High Calling, p. 169 CSI 30.6

Reflect: How can you build a more united community?" CSI 30.7