The Bible conveys that there is solely one race: the human race. Hence, referring to interracial marriage is not precisely accurate. Acts 17:26 states, “He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation,.” God created mankind in His image and likeness (Gen. 1:27). Thus, all humans are equal in their value and humanity. While God has established the borders of nations and ethnic groups, there is no division concerning an individual’s worth. Humanity showcases a range of cultures, languages, and skin tones, all of which are equally valuable and worthy of celebration.

Some individuals refer to sections of the Old Testament to back the belief that different ethnic groups should not intermarry. Deuteronomy 7:3 states, “Furthermore, you shall not intermarry with them; you shall not give your daughters to their sons, nor shall you take their daughters for your sons.” This verse is directed at the Israelites and intended for a particular time and reason. In this instance, God instructs the Israelites not to intermarry with the Canaanites. This directive is not about race but rather about religion. God wanted the Israelites to avoid marrying Canaanites as it could lead them away from the genuine worship of the God of Israel (Deut. 7:4). The issue was not about skin color or their Canaanite origin but rather because the Canaanites did not worship the God of Israel and instead followed false gods and idols.

The New Testament does not address interracial marriage specifically. Instead, it emphasizes the principle of not being unequally yoked with an unbeliever. 2 Corinthians 6:14 states, “Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?” The New Testament teaches that Christians should not marry non-Christians, as there is a distinction between light (the believer) and darkness (the non-believer). 1 Corinthians 15:33 warns that we should not be misled, as bad company can lead to the corruption of good morals and character. Marriage is the closest partnership that a man and woman can form, and there is no stronger connection than that between husband and wife. Just as the Israelites were instructed not to intermarry with those who did not believe in the one true God, Christians also should refrain from marrying those who do not share that belief. Couples in which one partner is a believer and the other is not may find their faith hindered and their relationship with God disrupted.

Some individuals may contend that God divided the “races” at the Tower of Babel, suggesting that these “races” should stay distinct. Nonetheless, this argument is flawed because, at the Tower of Babel, God did not segregate people according to race, nationality, or skin tone. The division was founded on language. Marriage between men and women from different countries and culture is perfectly acceptable for Christians. However, not all people hold this view due to prejudice.


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