Introduction

Social bias refers to the prejudices or predispositions that individuals or groups hold, often leading to unfair treatment or discrimination against others based on characteristics such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or religion. The Bible, while written in a different cultural and historical context, addresses the issue of social bias through its teachings on justice, equality, and love for one's neighbor. This entry explores the biblical perspective on social bias, drawing from various passages and principles found in Scripture.

Biblical Teachings on Equality and Justice

The Bible consistently emphasizes the inherent value and dignity of every human being, created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This foundational truth underpins the biblical call for justice and equality. In the Old Testament, the Law given to Israel includes numerous commands to treat others fairly and without partiality. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly" . This command highlights the importance of impartiality in judgment and the rejection of social bias.

The prophets also speak against social injustice and bias. Micah 6:8 famously declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" . This verse encapsulates the call to live justly and mercifully, countering any form of bias or discrimination.

New Testament Perspectives

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies and teaches against social bias. His interactions with marginalized individuals, such as the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:7-26) and the tax collector Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10), demonstrate His disregard for societal prejudices. Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) further challenges social bias by illustrating that love for one's neighbor transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries.

The apostle Paul reinforces this message in his epistles. In Galatians 3:28, he writes, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" . This statement underscores the unity and equality of all believers in Christ, dismantling social divisions and biases.

The Role of the Church

The early church faced challenges related to social bias, particularly in the integration of Gentile believers. The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 addressed these issues, affirming that salvation through Jesus Christ is available to all, regardless of ethnic background. James, the brother of Jesus, also addresses social bias in his epistle, warning against favoritism: "My brothers, as you hold out your faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, do not show favoritism" (James 2:1).

The church is called to be a community that reflects God's justice and love, actively working against social bias. This involves both personal transformation and communal action, as believers are urged to "do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3).

Conclusion

While the Bible acknowledges the reality of social bias, it provides a framework for addressing and overcoming it through the principles of justice, equality, and love. By adhering to these biblical teachings, individuals and communities can work towards a more just and equitable society, reflecting the character of God and the unity found in Christ.