Why Christians Must Discriminate

The word "discriminate" has taken on an entirely negative meaning, and the common assumption is that any and all types of discrimination are evil and should be avoided.  But the basic definition of "discriminate" is "to recognize a distinction; differentiate."  There is such a thing as wrongful discrimination, which is making an unjust distinction, such as the view that the white race is superior to the black race.  That should be avoided.  But there is a type of discrimination that is good and right.  We must recognize those distinctions that are taught in the Bible.  When we fail to make these distinctions, it leads to all sorts of problems -- personal and societal.

The first two chapters of the Bible provide us with four distinctions that we must make.  First, the distinction between the Creator and creation (Gen 1:1).  We must worship God, and not creation -- including ourselves!  Second, the distinction between mankind and the rest of creation (Gen 1:27).  Man is the only creature made in God's image; human beings are infinitely more valuable than animals.  Third, the distinction between male and female (Gen 1:27).  There are only two genders, and gender corresponds to one's biological sex.  Fourth, the difference between marriage and every other type of human relationship (Gen 2:24).  Marriage is the union of one man and one woman.

Usually when Christians are charged with discrimination, it is because we are recognizing distinctions made by the Bible.  We are not discriminating; we are simply living according to God's revealed truth.  And we must not compromise.  Life works best when we follow the manufacturer's specifications.

Wisdom is simply the ability to tell the difference -- between good and evil, between truth and error, between helpful and harmful, between just and unjust legislation.  Turning a blind eye to Biblical (and obvious) distinctions only makes us fools.  

"Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mold, but let God re-mold your minds from within, so that you may prove in practice that the plan of God for you is good, meets all his demands and moves towards the goal of true maturity." - Rm 12:2 (Phillips)