Egalitarianism is the belief that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities. The Bible has much to say about equality, justice and care for the disadvantaged that relates to egalitarian ideas. Here is an explanation of what the Bible teaches about egalitarian values.
Humanity’s Equality Before God
A key egalitarian idea is that all people have inherent worth and dignity, regardless of their social status, gender, race or other factors. The Bible teaches that all people are made in God’s image and thus have immeasurable value (Genesis 1:27). God does not show favoritism or partiality based on externals, but judges rightly (Deuteronomy 10:17-19; Acts 10:34-35).
Jesus mingled with and showed love to those scorned by society like women, Samaritans, tax collectors and sinners, showing God’s equal care for all (Luke 7:36-50, John 4:1-42). The apostle Paul taught radical equality in Christ, where worldly status and divisions vanish, as all are equally justified by faith (Galatians 3:28).
Thus, the Bible affirms human equality as all people bear God’s image and are objects of God’s impartial, sacrificial love. This supports an egalitarian perspective.
Justice and Fairness for All
Egalitarianism emphasizes justice, rights and fairness for all people. The Mosaic Law commanded impartial justice for Israelites and foreigners alike (Exodus 12:49; Leviticus 24:22). Israel’s prophets thundered against injustice and lack of equity (Amos 5:7-12; Isaiah 10:1-3).
Jesus called for just treatment of others, epitomized in the Golden Rule (Luke 6:31). The early Jerusalem church demonstrated social and economic equality among rich and poor (Acts 4:32-35). James condemns favoring the rich over the poor in the church (James 2:1-9).
Over and over, the Bible demands justice and equal treatment for all people regardless of status. This aligns with egalitarian values.
Care for the Marginalized
Egalitarians emphasize showing special concern for the disadvantaged. Scripture constantly commands care for the vulnerable like widows, orphans and sojourners (Exodus 22:21-22; Deuteronomy 10:18-19; Isaiah 1:17; James 1:27).
Israel’s laws sought to prevent permanent poverty through debt forgiveness, gleaning laws and limits on collateral (Leviticus 25; Deuteronomy 15:1-18). The Jubilee year returned property to original owners to prevent land monopoly (Leviticus 25:8-17). Usury laws prevented exploitation of the poor (Exodus 22:25).
Jesus showed particular compassion for outcasts like lepers (Luke 17:11-19), demoniacs (Mark 5:1-20), and children (Matthew 19:13-15). He condemned those who devour widows’ houses (Luke 20:47), and praised a poor widow’s offering (Luke 21:1-4).
The Bible commands defending the vulnerable and disadvantaged. Its concern for justice and compassion aligns with egalitarian values.
In Christ, No Inequality
Some Bible passages seem to accept social inequalities, like masters and slaves or husbands and wives. Does this contradict egalitarianism?
Importantly, the Bible regulated slavery to prevent abuse, and commanded masters to treat slaves justly as equals in Christ (Ephesians 6:9; Colossians 4:1). Wives are called to voluntary submission to husbands, yet the Bible affirms their equal value (Ephesians 5:22-33; Galatians 3:28).
Such passages reflect ancient social mores, but the overall trajectory moves toward equality. The kingdom of God breaks down human barriers. In Christ, human distinctions vanish, as all are one in him (Galatians 3:28).
A Christian egalitarian ethic seeks to live out this eschatological reality in self-giving love, justice and generosity toward others, regardless of status. Though imperfect, such love fulfills the biblical ideals.
Real-World Implications
What are some real-world applications of biblical egalitarian values? Here are a few:
- Defending human rights and dignity for all people, including minorities and the marginalized
- Promoting economic policies that reduce inequality and advance fairness
- Welcoming immigrants and refugees
- Advocating for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation
- Respecting women, minorities and those of other faiths or backgrounds
- Caring for the poor and vulnerable in our communities
- Ensuring equal access to health care, education and opportunity
The biblical call to love our neighbor, do justice and care for the least compel Christians to apply egalitarian principles in seeking the good of all people. Though imperfect, such efforts honor the equality and justice for which Christ died.
Objections and Misconceptions
Some object that the Bible sanctions social hierarchies, or that egalitarian goals conflict with biblical teachings on gender and sexuality. However, properly interpreted, Scripture does not contradict an ethic of equality. Let’s clarify some misconceptions:
Doesn’t the Bible Support Gender and Role Hierarchies?
As mentioned, some Bible passages reflect ancient patriarchal culture. However, Scripture teaches that husbands and wives are heirs together of grace (1 Peter 3:7), and calls for mutual submission in marriage (Ephesians 5:21). Nowhere does it teach gender superiority.
Don’t Egalitarians Seek to Undermine Biblical Sexual Ethics?
Secular society sometimes promotes LGBTQ+ identities under the banner of “equality.” However, the Bible nowhere endorses same-sex relations. Biblical equality stems from our equal status as God’s image-bearers. It does not affirm behaviors Scripture prohibits.
Doesn’t the Bible Accept Social Class Divisions?
While Scripture acknowledges social stratification, it commands justice and prohibitions against favoring the rich. In Christ, socioeconomic divisions are abolished, as all are equally justified by faith and members of Christ’s body (1 Corinthians 12:12-13).
What About Hierarchy Between God and Humans?
Human equality does not threaten divine sovereignty. Scripture teaches ontological distinctions between Creator and creature. However, as God’s image-bearers, humans have immeasurable dignity. We submit to Christ’s lordship while sharing equally in His redemption.
Properly understood, biblical equality does not contradict Scripture’s teachings. An ethics of neighbor love fulfills the biblical witness.
Challenges and Applications
Seeking to live out biblical egalitarian ethics poses challenges:
Navigating Tensions with Secular Ideologies
Christians must uphold biblical truth when secular egalitarianism contradicts Scripture. Yet we can affirm shared goals like justice and human dignity even amid ideological differences.
Avoiding Extremes
In applying equality, we must avoid dishonoring God’s design. For example, pursuing gender equality through transgender ideology contradicts Scripture. However, defending legitimate rights and dignity is right. Biblical wisdom is required.
Structural Inequalities
Entrenched societal inequalities are not easily dismantled. However, Christians can make personal sacrifices to serve the disadvantaged, and advocate for public policies that promote fairness.
Inequality Due to Sin
Human sinfulness means inequality persists. But we must combat injustice and alleviate suffering while pointing to Christ’s redemption for all.
By God’s grace and Spirit, Christians can navigate tensions, avoid errors and promote neighbor love. Though challenging, the effort pleases God and serves others.
Conclusion
At its root, egalitarianism affirms the equal worth of all people. This aligns with the biblical teaching that all humans bear God’s image and are offered redemption in Christ regardless of ethnicity, status or gender. Scripture commands justice, defends the vulnerable, and breaks down divisive barriers.
Seeking to apply this vision imperfectly, Christians promote human dignity, fairness, and care for the marginalized. Though countercultural, such sacrificial service incarnates Jesus’ ministry to the despised. It fulfills the two greatest commandments: to love God and neighbor.
Biblical egalitarian ethics offer hope of reconciliation. As people loved equally by God, we can love one another across manmade divisions. Only in Christ are human barriers truly overcome. The world desperately needs this reconciling gospel of grace, justice and love.