Diversity in the church is not new—it’s God’s design from the beginning.
Multiculturalism is not anything new. In the Bible, we see teaching strongly in favor of multiculturalism. We understand from the Bible that all people, of all cultures, are equally loved and valued by God. Galatians 3:28 and Romans 1:16 provide insight into multiculturalism and teach that race, culture, and gender do not separate us in God’s eyes.
With this in mind, why is it that when someone visits your church, you may not feel comfortable speaking with the individual? We may go shy or even feel fear. It is natural not to feel confident in yourself to approaching someone who is different from you.
We need to remember that God has created each and every one of us. The multicultural church is one of the most visible ways we can live out this truth—honoring God’s image in every person and culture. Though we vary in color, cultures, and races, let us not forget that what God creates and values, we should also value.
Embrace newcomers! Extend a warm welcome to the visitor. Be loving, respectful, and tolerant to those who are different.
I’ve learned from my 4-plus decades of experience in international ministry living abroad that deep down every person is basically the same. When you talk with an individual, you realize you have similar needs, wants, concerns, and hopes. Most are seeking the truth. Learn to let God speak through you and give you the words and courage. As Christians, we are to love them with Agape love.
Leviticus 19:33-34 says, ‘And if a stranger dwells with you in your land, you shall not mistreat him. The stranger who dwells among you shall be to you as one born among you, and you shall love him as yourself; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.’
Lord, help me to have more courage in you to show your love to others. Give me boldness and wisdom and allow the |Holy Spirit to speak His truth and demonstrate your love to others. Amen.
For further in-depth study on this subject by Dan Murphy & Balan Swaminathan, please see this link, from which I have shared briefly some of the content. Cultivating Multiculturalism-Awareness and Transition.
