God created all people in His image, and the Bible celebrates unity in diversity. Today, we’ll explore what scripture says about dating someone of a different race and focusing on shared faith and love.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About Dating An Unbeliever
What Does The Bible Say About Dating Different Races
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 reminds us that all humans are descended from one man, Adam, and that God has determined the boundaries of nations and their appointed times in history. It speaks to the beautiful diversity of humanity and the fact that racial differences are part of God’s creative plan.
Genesis 1:26-27
“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’ So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
This verse emphasizes that all humans are made in the image of God, regardless of their race or ethnicity. We are all equal in God’s eyes and have inherent dignity and worth. It reminds us that our identity is rooted in being created by God, and not in our racial or ethnic background.
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 highlights the unity that believers have in Christ. It teaches us that in the eyes of God, there is no distinction or hierarchy based on race, social status, or gender. In Christ, we are all equal and part of the same spiritual family.
Deuteronomy 7:3-4
“Do not intermarry with them. Do not give your daughters to their sons or take their daughters for your sons, for they will turn your children away from following me to serve other gods, and the Lord’s anger will burn against you and will quickly destroy you.”
While this verse may seem to discourage interracial marriage, it is important to understand the context in which it was written. The Israelites were instructed not to intermarry with the pagan nations surrounding them, not because of racial differences, but because of the risk of turning away from God. It is crucial to interpret this verse in light of the overall message of love, unity, and inclusivity found throughout the Bible.
Numbers 12:1
“Miriam and Aaron began to talk against Moses because of his Cushite wife, for he had married a Cushite.”
This verse describes an incident where Miriam and Aaron, Moses’ siblings, criticized him for marrying a woman from Cush. It serves as a reminder that even great biblical figures faced prejudices and challenges when it came to interracial relationships. However, it is essential to note that the narrative portrays God’s disapproval of their discrimination and His subsequent punishment of Miriam with leprosy.
Ruth 1:16
“But Ruth replied, “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God.””
In this touching story of Ruth, a Moabite woman, we see her commitment and loyalty to her mother-in-law, Naomi, and her willingness to embrace Naomi’s people, culture, and faith. It illustrates the power of love and unity that transcends cultural boundaries, demonstrating the beauty that can arise from relationships between people of different races and backgrounds.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.””
This verse reminds us that God values the heart and character of a person rather than their outward appearance. It teaches us not to judge others based on their race or physical attributes but to recognize and appreciate the inner qualities and virtues that truly matter in relationships.
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.””
Paul’s words in this verse reiterate the theme of unity and equality in Christ. It emphasizes that our identity in Christ transcends racial and cultural differences. Regardless of our backgrounds, we are all part of the body of Christ and should treat one another with love, respect, and acceptance.
Ephesians 2:14-15
“For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace.”
These verses speak to the transformative power of Christ’s sacrifice, which reconciles people from different ethnic backgrounds. It emphasizes that in Christ, the divisions and hostilities that exist between races and cultures can be overcome, and a new community of believers can be formed in harmony and peace.
1 Corinthians 7:39
“A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but he must belong to the Lord.”
This verse speaks to the general principle of marriage within the context of faith. It indicates that believers should seek partners who share their commitment to the Lord, emphasizing the importance of a shared spiritual foundation rather than focusing on racial or ethnic considerations.
Song of Solomon 1:5-6
“Dark am I, yet lovely, daughters of Jerusalem, dark like the tents of Kedar, like the tent curtains of Solomon. Do not stare at me because I am dark, because I am darkened by the sun. My mother’s sons were angry with me and made me take care of the vineyards; my own vineyard I had to neglect.”
This poetic passage in the Song of Solomon challenges societal standards of beauty and celebrates the inherent beauty of different skin tones. It demonstrates that attraction and love go beyond external appearances and speaks against prejudices based on race or skin color.
Matthew 12:46-50
“While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.’ He replied to him, ‘Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?’ Pointing to his disciples, he said, ‘Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.’”
This passage emphasizes the spiritual family that Jesus forms with his followers. It reinforces the idea that our bonds and connections are not limited to biological relationships, race or ethnicity. In Christ, we are part of a greater family, united by our faith and commitment to doing the will of God.
1 Timothy 4:12
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
While this verse does not directly address interracial relationships, it reminds us that our age, race, or any other external factor should not be the basis for others to look down on us. We are called to set an example through our actions, words, and love, regardless of our racial or ethnic background.
John 4:9
“The Samaritan woman said to him, ‘You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?’ (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)”
This conversation between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well highlights the cultural and ethnic divisions that existed at that time. However, Jesus broke those barriers by engaging in conversation with her, demonstrating his love and acceptance. It serves as a reminder to us that we should not be bound by societal expectations and biases in our relationships with people from different races and backgrounds.
Psalm 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This beautiful passage reminds us that God is the ultimate creator and that He has carefully designed each individual, irrespective of race or ethnicity. It emphasizes the intrinsic worth and uniqueness of every person and reinforces the idea that our value lies in being fearfully and wonderfully made by God.
Proverbs 31:30
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of inner qualities and character over external appearance. It encourages us to value and appreciate individuals based on their faith, character, and reverence for the Lord, rather than superficial attributes such as race or physical attractiveness.
Leviticus 19:34
“The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt. I am the Lord your God.”
This verse emphasizes the biblical call to treat foreigners and immigrants with love, respect, and fairness. It reminds us that we were once outsiders and that we should extend the same kindness and compassion to those from different racial or ethnic backgrounds as we would to our fellow countrymen.
James 2:8-9
“If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.”
These verses emphasize the importance of treating all people equally and avoiding favoritism or discrimination based on race or social standing. They remind us that love should be the guiding principle in our interactions with others, and that showing partiality is contrary to the teachings of Scripture.
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.”
These words from the apostle Paul highlight the universal lordship of Christ and the promise of blessings for all who call on His name. It emphasizes that in the eyes of God, there is no difference or distinction between races or ethnicities. We are all equally loved and blessed by our Lord and Savior.
1 Peter 3:7
“Husbands, in the same way, be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers.”
This verse speaks to the importance of mutual respect and consideration within marriages. It highlights that husbands should treat their wives with respect and honor, recognizing them as equal partners and heirs in the gracious gift of life. It focuses on the relational dynamics within marriage rather than addressing racial issues directly.
Matthew 5:43-44
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
In this profound statement, Jesus challenges the prevailing societal norm of loving one’s neighbor while despising one’s enemies. He calls us to go beyond our comfort zones and love even those who may be different from us or who may hold animosity towards us. It reminds us to extend love and forgiveness across racial and cultural lines.
Mark 7:24-30
“Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret. In fact, as soon as she heard about him, a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an impure spirit came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. ‘First let the children eat all they want,’ he told her, ‘for it is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.’ “Lord,” she replied, “even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” Then he told her, “For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter.” She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.”
This story of Jesus encountering a Greek woman highlights his compassionate response to her plea for the healing of her daughter. Despite her being from a different ethnic background, Jesus recognizes her faith and grants her request. It illustrates Jesus’ inclusivity and willingness to engage with individuals of different races and cultures.