The Bible doesn’t specifically mention Native Americans, but it speaks about God’s love for all nations and peoples. Scripture calls for justice, respect, and unity among diverse groups. Let’s explore how biblical principles apply to the treatment and recognition of Indigenous peoples and cultures.
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What Does The Bible Say About Native American
Genesis 1:27
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
This verse highlights the foundational truth that all human beings, including Native Americans, were created by God and bear His image. It affirms the equal worth and value of every individual, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background.
It reminds us that Native Americans, like all other people, are uniquely created by God and deserving of respect, dignity, and love.
Acts 17:26
“From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.”
This verse emphasizes the fact that God created all nations, including Native American tribes, and determined when and where they would exist. It acknowledges the diversity of cultures and people groups, each with their own unique history and heritage.
It serves as a reminder that Native American tribes have a significant place in God’s plan and that their existence is not by accident but by divine design.
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This powerful verse emphasizes the unity that exists among believers in Christ, regardless of their cultural or ethnic backgrounds. It demolishes the divisions and labels that society may place on people based on their race or social status.
It applies to Native Americans as it declares that in Christ, all believers, including Native American Christians, are equally valuable and united as one body.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
These verses are often referred to as the Great Commission, where Jesus commands His followers to go and make disciples of all nations. This includes Native American communities, who are to be reached with the transformative message of the gospel.
It is a reminder that every individual, regardless of their cultural background, deserves to hear the good news of Jesus Christ and be given the opportunity to become His disciple.
Psalm 96:3
“Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.”
This verse encourages believers to proclaim and declare the glory of God among all nations, including Native American tribes. It highlights the importance of sharing the wonders and miraculous works of God to people of diverse backgrounds.
It invites Native Americans to be part of the story of God’s redemptive plan and extends an invitation for them to experience and witness His marvelous deeds.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This verse emphasizes the transformative power of faith in Christ. It reminds us that when someone becomes a believer, they are made new and experience a radical change in their lives.
It applies to Native Americans as it offers them the hope of a fresh start and the opportunity to leave behind the brokenness of the past, embracing a new identity and purpose in Christ.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This well-known verse summarizes the central message of the gospel. It emphasizes God’s love for all people, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background.
It speaks directly to Native Americans, reminding them that they are included in God’s redemptive plan and inviting them to receive the gift of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.
Romans 10:12
“For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him.”
This verse reinforces the truth that there is no distinction or difference in the eyes of God between different ethnic groups or cultures. It emphasizes that the Lord is the Lord of all.
It applies to Native Americans as it affirms their equal access to God’s blessings and the invitation to call on Him, regardless of their cultural heritage.
Psalm 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”
This verse celebrates the beauty and importance of unity among God’s people. It speaks to the value of diverse individuals and cultures coming together in harmony.
It invites Native American believers to actively pursue unity with fellow Christians, transcending cultural barriers and celebrating the richness of their shared faith.
1 Peter 4:10
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”
This verse encourages every believer to utilize their unique gifts and abilities to serve others. It emphasizes that every individual has something valuable to contribute to the Kingdom of God.
It applies to Native Americans, encouraging them to recognize and use their specific cultural gifts and talents to bless the body of Christ and impact their communities for the glory of God.
James 2:8
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing right.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of loving and treating others with the same care and respect that we have for ourselves. It points to the commandment of loving our neighbors as a fundamental principle of righteous living.
It speaks directly to Native Americans, reminding them of their responsibility to love and show compassion to their fellow tribesmen and other people, regardless of their differences.
Colossians 3:11
“Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all.”
This verse emphasizes the inclusive nature of the body of Christ, where differences in culture, ethnicity, social status, and background are transcended. It emphasizes the unity that can be found in Christ.
It applies to Native Americans, reminding them that their identity and worth are ultimately found in Christ, and that their cultural background does not hinder their acceptance within the family of God.
Psalm 24:1
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”
This verse proclaims the ownership of God over the entire earth and all its inhabitants. It reminds us that every person, including Native Americans, belongs to God and is under His care.
It affirms the sacredness of Native American lands and cultures, as they are part of God’s creation, and urges faithful stewardship and respect for the earth and its resources.
Proverbs 22:28
“Do not move an ancient boundary stone set up by your ancestors.”
This verse speaks to the importance of honoring and respecting the traditions, customs, and wisdom passed down by previous generations. It highlights the value of preserving cultural heritage and ancestral wisdom.
It applies to Native Americans as it encourages them to hold onto their rich history, traditions, and spiritual practices, learning from the wisdom of their ancestors while remaining rooted in God’s truth.
1 Corinthians 12:12
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.”
This verse uses the analogy of a human body to illustrate the diversity and interconnectedness of the body of Christ. It highlights that each member is unique and valuable, contributing to the overall health and function of the body.
It speaks directly to Native Americans, encouraging them to recognize the significance of their cultural heritage and contributions within the broader body of Christ.
Deuteronomy 32:7
“Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of honoring and learning from previous generations. It encourages passing down cultural and spiritual wisdom from one generation to the next.
It speaks to Native Americans, urging them to value the wisdom and teachings of their elders, as they carry the knowledge and narratives that are vital to preserving their heritage and identity.
Psalm 33:12
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance.”
This verse declares the blessedness of a nation whose God is the Lord. It reminds us that God chooses and blesses His people, regardless of their national or cultural background.
It applies to Native Americans, affirming that God’s favor extends to them as His chosen people, and inviting them to embrace their identity as part of His inheritance.
Proverbs 14:21
“Whoever despises his neighbor is a sinner, but blessed is he who is generous to the poor.”
This verse highlights the importance of showing kindness and generosity towards others, especially those who are marginalized or in need. It condemns the sin of despising one’s neighbor.
It speaks directly to Native Americans, encouraging them to demonstrate compassion and generosity towards others, seeking to uplift and support those who may be disadvantaged or facing hardship.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
This verse declares the blessedness of those who actively pursue peace and reconciliation. It emphasizes the importance of promoting harmony and resolving conflicts in a spirit of love.
It applies to Native Americans, encouraging them to be agents of peace within their communities, seeking understanding, reconciliation, and unity in the face of cultural, social, and historical challenges.
Acts 10:34-35
“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.”
This verse highlights the impartiality of God towards people from every nation. It declares that God accepts all who fear Him and live righteously, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background.
It speaks directly to Native Americans, assuring them of God’s acceptance and urging them to pursue a godly life, knowing that their worship and devotion are valued by Him.
John 13:35
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of love as an identifying mark of Christ’s followers. It declares that our love for one another is a powerful testimony to the world.
It applies to Native Americans, challenging them to exhibit a profound love for fellow believers and to foster unity within their communities, becoming a shining example of Christ’s love.
Hebrews 13:2
“Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”
This verse encourages believers to extend hospitality and kindness to strangers, recognizing that in doing so, they may unknowingly be interacting with heavenly visitors.
It applies to Native Americans, inspiring them to practice the virtue of hospitality, welcoming outsiders with open arms and demonstrating the love of Christ through their actions.
Psalm 82:3-4
“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
This powerful verse urges God’s people to stand up for justice and advocate for those who are vulnerable or oppressed. It emphasizes the importance of defending the rights and well-being of all individuals.
It speaks directly to Native Americans, calling them to actively work towards justice and equality in their communities, supporting and uplifting those who may face systemic injustices.
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”
In this verse, Jesus speaks of the importance of caring for the needs of others, declaring that acts of kindness towards the vulnerable are received as acts of service to Him.
It applies to Native Americans, reminding them of their calling to serve and bless others, particularly those who may be marginalized or overlooked in society.