Do Not Be AshamedNäide

Do not be ashamed of your social position

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28)

Every society knows social inequalities. Sometimes this is based on one’s finances, social class or nationality. Other cultures may value one ethnic group of people over another. In Paul’s day, slaves were considered inferior to “free people”. But God says that all these differences actually don’t count, “for you are all one in Christ Jesus”. Therefore, believers should never be ashamed about their position in society. To God, it does not matter which country you are from. It does not matter how rich or influential your parents are. It does not matter whether you are male or female. The only thing that counts, is whether you believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.

The apostle Paul exhorts a fellow believer to welcome his runaway slave back “not to be just a slave, but better than a slave, to be a dear brother” (Philemon 1:16). The prophet Isaiah assures foreigners, eunuchs and outcasts, who considered themselves inferior to others and were often looked down upon, that they are equally appreciated as God’s children.

Nobody needs to be ashamed of their social position. If you believe in Jesus, “you are all children of God, through faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26, ERV).