MORRISVILLE – In recent years, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have become prominent topics in our society. DEI emphasizes the importance of fostering a culture of inclusivity where people are treated equitably and feel valued regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status or other characteristics. As a Christian, I view the Bible as my operating manual; the standard by which I evaluate all ideas and values. Therefore, I wondered, what is a biblical approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion?
Diversity is the recognition and celebration of differences among individuals. The Bible clearly affirms the beauty of diversity in the created world. From the very beginning, the Bible reveals a God who created and delights in diversity (Genesis 1:31).
In the New Testament, this theme of diversity is amplified. Revelation 7:9 offers a powerful image of the heavenly kingdom: “After this, I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” This passage paints a picture of an inclusive community where people from all corners of the earth, representing diverse cultures, backgrounds and languages, are united in worship. The biblical narrative underscores that God values diversity and desires to see it reflected in His kingdom.
Equity involves ensuring fair treatment, opportunities and resources for everyone. The Bible teaches that God is just and impartial, and He desires His people to reflect these values in their relationships with one another.
For example, in Leviticus 19:15, God commands, “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.” This verse speaks to the importance of impartiality in the judicial process, ensuring that everyone is treated with fairness, regardless of their status. This is one example of a commandment designed to promote justice, particularly for the vulnerable in society.
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies equity through His interactions with those marginalized by society, including women, tax collectors, lepers, and the poor. He treated people with dignity and respect, breaking down societal barriers and showing that all people have inherent value in God’s eyes. The Apostle Paul teaches that in Christ, all divisions between people are erased, and the playing field is leveled. Everyone has equal opportunity before God, regardless of race, social class, or gender, to accept His free gift of salvation and join His family, or to reject it and spend eternity apart from Him.
Inclusion emphasizes creating an environment where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to contribute and participate fully. Jesus’ ministry was one of radical inclusion. He welcomed those whom society rejected, tax collectors, sinners and Gentiles, and extended to them an invitation to be part of God’s family.
In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands His disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations.” This command to go to “all nations” reinforces the idea that the kingdom of God is open to all people who are willing to put their faith in Him, regardless of their ethnicity, social status or past.
The Apostle Paul further emphasizes inclusion in his teachings. In Romans 15:7, he urges believers to “accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” The church is called to be a community where all are welcomed, valued and included, regardless of their differences.
At the heart of the Bible’s view of DEI is the command to love one’s neighbor. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus summarizes the entire law with two commands: Love God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself. This call to love transcends cultural, racial and social boundaries. It is a call to see the inherent dignity of every human being as created in the image of God and to treat others with kindness, fairness, and respect, knowing that none of us deserves God’s favor and salvation, but that it is a free gift offered to everyone (see Ephesians 2:8-9).
Virginia Lapierre is a deaconess at the Lamoille Valley Grace Brethren Church, Morrisville.
