Partiality and Racism
How do you see groups of people? We have a tendency to group people based on externals and then assign stereotypes and value. This is the sin of partiality. Partiality is a rebellion against God. As Christians, we are called not to show preference based on externals but to serve people since they are made in God's image. God is creating a new family of God with people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, classes, and cultures. As we mimic God in reaching all people, the church becomes the beautiful mosaic it was meant to be.
Family Discussion Questions
What are all the ways you can think of that people are different from one another? Different heights, different skin color, different genders, different eyes, and hair, etc.
Do you sometimes have a hard time loving others that are different from you? Why? Answers will vary.
What are some ways that all people are the same? Answers will vary. We were all made by God in His image.
Read Ephesians 2:18-22
How can all the different people of the world become one family? Through Christ, we are made one people. Through His death on a cross to pay for our sins and His resurrection three days later, Jesus made way for us to be part of God's family by believing in Him.
Read Revelation 7:9-10
When Jesus comes back, what will God's family look like? God's family will be every nation, tribe, people, and language standing together, praising and worshiping God.
Read Matthew 28:18-20
If everyone can be part of God's family, who do we need to tell about Jesus? Everyone! God wants everyone to be told about Jesus and how they can be saved, no matter who they are or where they come from.
Group Discussion Questions
What was the main thing God taught you from the message? How does that impact the way to see God, yourself, and others?
How do you see groups of people? Is there a particular group that you typically favor? Is there normally a group that you withhold favor from?
How often do you interact with people different from you? What would it look like to spend time this week with someone different than you?
Do you typically see the problem of partiality as a problem within a system or structure or see it as a problem that begins with yourself?
What is one way you plan to live of God's word this week?