What is Critical Race Theory? Is it Biblical?

TL;DR

Critical Race Theory (CRT) is a framework that examines society and culture through the lens of race and racism.
CRT’s core principles conflict with biblical teachings on human dignity, equality, and justice.
The Bible emphasizes unity in Christ and individual responsibility, contrasting with CRT’s collective focus on race.
Scripture advocates for reconciliation and forgiveness, which contrasts with CRT’s emphasis on perpetual grievance and division.

Understanding Critical Race Theory

Critical Race Theory (CRT) is an intellectual movement and framework that emerged in the legal field in the late 20th century. It posits that race and racism are not merely products of individual bias or prejudice, but are systemic, ingrained in law and societal structures. CRT also emphasizes the idea of ‘white privilege’ and argues for the necessity of considering race in understanding and addressing inequalities and injustices in society.

However, from a biblical perspective, several aspects of CRT are problematic. Firstly, the Bible teaches that all people are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27) and are of equal worth and dignity. In contrast, CRT’s emphasis on race can inadvertently lead to viewing individuals primarily through the lens of their race, rather than their shared humanity and identity in God.

Furthermore, the biblical concept of justice is grounded in righteousness and impartiality (Proverbs 28:5, Micah 6:8). The Bible advocates for a justice system that is blind to race, ethnicity, or social status (Leviticus 19:15), a view that contrasts with CRT’s premise that race should be a lens through which all societal interactions and structures are analyzed.

Biblical Teachings on Human Dignity and Equality

Scripture affirms the inherent dignity and equality of all humans. In Acts 17:26, Paul states that God made “from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth.” This underscores the unity and equality of all people, irrespective of race or ethnicity.

This biblical principle conflicts with CRT’s tendency to categorize and often pit different racial groups against each other. While acknowledging the reality of racism and the need to address it, the Bible’s approach is one of reconciliation and unity in Christ (Galatians 3:28), not division based on race.

The Biblical Concept of Justice and Responsibility

The Bible emphasizes personal responsibility and accountability. Ezekiel 18:20 states, “The son shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father, nor the father suffer for the iniquity of the son.” This contrasts with CRT’s focus on collective guilt and responsibility based on race.

Moreover, the biblical model of justice is redemptive and restorative. It seeks to bring about reconciliation and restoration, whereas CRT often emphasizes a narrative of perpetual grievance and division. The Bible calls for loving one’s neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:31) and pursuing peace and reconciliation (Matthew 5:9, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19).

Biblical Principles of Reconciliation and Forgiveness

One of the core messages of the Bible is reconciliation and forgiveness, both with God and with one another. This stands in contrast to CRT’s focus on highlighting and maintaining racial divisions. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) exemplifies the call to love and serve others regardless of racial or ethnic differences.

The biblical approach is one of forgiveness and moving forward together, as seen in Colossians 3:13, “bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.” This ethos of forgiveness and unity is often lacking in CRT’s framework.

Conclusion

While CRT raises valid concerns about racism and inequality, its core principles are in many ways antithetical to biblical teachings. The Bible advocates for viewing each individual as made in God’s image, emphasizes personal responsibility and accountability, and calls for reconciliation and forgiveness, in contrast to the often divisive and collective focus of CRT.

“Fault Lines: The Social Justice Movement and Evangelicalism’s Looming Catastrophe” by Voddie Baucham – A critical examination of CRT from a biblical perspective.
“Confronting Injustice without Compromising Truth” by Thaddeus J. Williams – A book that explores how to address social issues biblically, contrasting with CRT’s approach.