Social Distinctions
Does race, ancestry, or economic status make anyone superior in God’s eyes?
Ac 17:26, 27; Ro 3:23-27; Ga 2:6; 3:28
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Relevant Bible account(s):
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Joh 8:31-40—Certain Jews take pride in claiming Abraham as their ancestor; yet, Jesus corrects them because they act nothing like Abraham
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Is there any basis for looking down on people who are of another race or nation?
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Relevant Bible account(s):
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Jon 4:1-11—Jehovah patiently teaches the prophet Jonah to show mercy to the Ninevites, people of a different nationality
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Ac 10:1-8, 24-29, 34, 35—The apostle Peter learns that he should not consider Gentiles unclean, so he helps Cornelius and his household to become the first uncircumcised Gentile Christians
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Should wealthy Christians feel superior to others or expect special treatment?
See also De 8:12-14; Jer 9:23, 24
Does having a position of oversight mean that a person is superior to others and can be overly demanding?
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Relevant Bible account(s):
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De 17:18-20—Jehovah warns that no king in Israel should exalt himself over His people, who in God’s eyes are the king’s brothers
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Mr 10:35-45—Jesus corrects his apostles for their excessive interest in positions of authority. (See also study note on Mr 10:42, “lord it over them”)
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What determines whether a person has God’s approval?
Should Christians get involved in social reform movements?
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Relevant Bible account(s):
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Joh 6:14, 15—The people might expect Jesus to do good as a social reformer, but he refuses to be made a secular king
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