Definition and Context:
Multiculturalism refers to the presence and co-existence of diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious groups within a society. In a biblical context, it involves understanding how different cultures and peoples are addressed within the narrative of Scripture and how they relate to the overarching plan of God.

Biblical Foundations:
The Bible presents a narrative that includes a variety of cultures and peoples, beginning with the Table of Nations in Genesis 10, which outlines the descendants of Noah's sons and the spread of nations across the earth. This diversity is part of God's design, as seen in Acts 17:26, "From one man He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands."

Old Testament Insights:
In the Old Testament, Israel is called to be a distinct people, set apart by God, yet they are also to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 49:6). The Law given to Israel includes provisions for the "foreigner" or "sojourner" among them, emphasizing justice and compassion (Leviticus 19:33-34). The account of Ruth, a Moabite woman who becomes part of the lineage of David and ultimately Jesus, highlights the inclusion of non-Israelites into God's redemptive plan.

New Testament Perspectives:
The New Testament expands on the theme of multiculturalism through the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19). The early church grapples with cultural diversity, particularly in the inclusion of Gentiles. Acts 10 recounts Peter's vision and subsequent visit to Cornelius, a Gentile, which underscores the breaking down of cultural barriers: "God does not show favoritism, but welcomes those from every nation who fear Him and do what is right" (Acts 10:34-35).

The Apostle Paul further articulates this unity in diversity, stating, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). This reflects the transformative power of the Gospel to transcend cultural and ethnic divisions.

Theological Implications:
Multiculturalism in the Bible points to the universal scope of God's salvation plan. Revelation 7:9 envisions a multitude from "every nation, tribe, people, and language" standing before the throne of God, worshiping together. This eschatological vision affirms the value and dignity of all cultures within the kingdom of God.

Practical Considerations:
Christians are called to engage with multiculturalism by embodying the love and unity found in Christ. This involves welcoming and valuing diverse cultural expressions within the church, promoting justice and equality, and recognizing the image of God in every person. The biblical mandate is to live out the Gospel in a way that reflects God's heart for all nations, fostering communities that mirror the diversity and unity of the body of Christ.Psalm 117:1-2
O praise the LORD, all you nations: praise him, all you people.
Topicalbible.org

Colossians 3:11
Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
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Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
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What is cultural appropriation? | GotQuestions.org

What is contextualization? | GotQuestions.org

The Christian and Culture ' Article Index | GotQuestions.org

Culture: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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