Does Christianity Crush Diversity?
Rebecca McLaughlin ends Chapter 2 of Confronting Christianity with this bold statement:
“So, if you care about diversity, don’t dismiss Christianity; it is the most diverse, multiethnic, and multicultural movement in all of history.”
But is that really true? Let’s explore how Christianity began and why its core message is built on radical inclusivity.
Christianity: A Multiethnic Movement from the Start
Many assume Christianity is a Western, white religion, tied to colonialism and cultural imperialism. But the reality is quite different.
Christianity originated in the Middle East. Jesus and his disciples were not European; they lived in a region that is now modern-day Israel and Palestine.
The first followers of Jesus were called “Christians” in Antioch, an ancient city located in present-day Turkey (Acts 11:26).
From its inception, Christianity crossed ethnic and cultural lines. Jesus scandalized His Jewish peers by embracing Samaritans, Romans, and Gentiles—groups traditionally excluded from Jewish religious life (John 4, Matthew 8:5-13).
A Faith That Breaks Barriers
Christianity’s foundation was built on diversity, but how does that show up in Scripture?
Radical Inclusion: Jesus invited tax collectors, sinners, and the marginalized into His inner circle (Luke 5:30-32). He made loving the poor central to His mission (Luke 4:18) and condemned favoritism in His church (James 2:1-4).
Global Mission: Jesus commanded His followers to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit enabled people from multiple languages and cultures to understand the gospel in their own tongue (Acts 2:4).
Unity Across Social Divides: The early church united Jews and Gentiles, rich and poor, slaves and free peopleinto one body (Galatians 3:28, Ephesians 2:14-16). This was unheard of in ancient societies.
When Christianity Fails Its Own Mission
Despite its inclusive roots, Christianity has often failed to uphold its radical vision of diversity.
Many majority-Christian societies have created racial and social hierarchies that contradict biblical teaching (James 2:9).
Gandhi once said: “I like your Christ. I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.” This speaks to the painful reality that some expressions of Christianity have ignored Jesus’ call to love across racial and cultural lines.
Today, some American churches struggle with racial integration and even resist immigration, wrongly conflating nationalism with faith.
Yet, the Bible’s vision of diversity remains unchanged.
Christianity’s Future: A Multicultural Kingdom
The last book of the Bible gives us a glimpse of God’s ultimate plan:
“A great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.” ”
Discussion Questions
How has your understanding of Christianity and diversity changed after reading this chapter?
Why do you think Christianity is often perceived as a Western or white religion?
Where do you see examples of the church living out biblical diversity today? Where does it fall short?
How can we, as followers of Jesus, better reflect the multicultural nature of His kingdom?
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