Counsels on Social Issue

Counsel #13 — Colorism

Picture: Counsel #13 — Colorism CSI 32.1

Colorism is an ancient and deeply rooted hierarchical societal construct that associates lighter skin with wealth, status, and beauty. This division, like many others, serves to uplift some while oppressing others with darker skin. But to truly address colorism, we must examine its presence within ourselves on a spiritual level. CSI 32.2

Here’s the heart question: Can you love a God who’s not your color? We often impose our own image of God onto others, believing He must resemble us. This mindset violates the second commandment, which warns against creating any likeness of God. Throughout history, every culture has envisioned God in their own image, with Western culture predominately depicting Him as a White man. Many people might struggle to be or remain a Christian if they asked themselves, “Can I still love Jesus if He doesn’t look like me?” The Bible emphasizes that God’s self-revelation is about His character, not His physical appearance. When Christ returns, His people will be like Him—not in color, but in character.^[68] CSI 32.3

“For God does not show favoritism.” Romans 2:11 CSI 32.4

“Cannot the children of God see that in conceding to the prejudice against the color of race, they are giving their influence to sanction a long course of neglect, of insult, of oppression? Will not the Lord call those to account who have had a part in this work?” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 11, Manuscript 7, 1896 CSI 32.5

Reflect: Search your heart. What differences will be seen in your life if you love God based on His character instead of worshipping a projected image of Him? CSI 32.6