One of the most odious evils of our time is racism, the belief or practice that sees or treats certain ethnic groups as inferior and, therefore, as objects of domination, discrimination, and segregation.
Although the sin of racism is an ancient phenomenon based on ignorance, fear, alienation, and false pride, some of its most heinous manifestations have occurred in our time. Racism and irrational prejudices operate in a vicious circle. Racism is among the worst of the deep-seated prejudices that characterize sinful human beings. Its consequences are usually devastating because racism easily becomes permanently institutionalized and legalized. In its extreme manifestations, it can lead to systematic persecution and even genocide.
The Adventist Church condemns all forms of racism, including the political practice of apartheid, with its forced segregation and legalized discrimination.
Adventists aim to be faithful to the reconciling ministry assigned to the Christian church. As a global faith community, the Adventist Church seeks to witness and exhibit within its own ranks the unity and love that transcend racial differences and overcome the alienation of the past between peoples.
Scripture clearly teaches that all people were created in the image of God, who “from one man made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth” (Acts 17:26). Racial discrimination is an offense against human beings who are equal, created in the image of God. In Christ, “there is neither Jew nor Gentile” (Galatians 3:28). Therefore, racism is truly a heresy and essentially a form of idolatry, as it limits the fatherhood of God by denying the brotherhood of the entire human race and exalting the racial superiority of some.
The standard for Adventists is recognized in the church’s Fundamental Belief No. 14, “Unity in the Body of Christ,” based on the Bible. It states: “In Christ we are a new creation. Distinctions of race, culture, and nationality, and differences between high and low, rich and poor, men and women, should not be causes of dissension among us. We are all one in Christ, who by one Spirit has united us in fellowship with Him and with one another. We should serve and be served without partiality or restriction.” Any other approach undermines the heart of the Christian gospel.
This statement was presented by Neal C. Wilson, then president of the General Conference, after consulting with the 16 world vice-presidents of the Adventist Church, on June 27, 1985, during the General Conference session held in New Orleans, Louisiana.