The issue of reparations for slavery is a complex and controversial topic in American society today. As Christians seek to apply biblical principles to this issue, there are several key considerations:
1. The Bible affirms justice and making amends for wrongdoing
In the Old Testament law, God commanded His people to make restitution when they had wronged someone: “If someone steals an ox or a sheep and slaughters it or sells it, he must pay back five head of cattle for the ox and four sheep for the sheep” (Exodus 22:1). The principle is that those who commit injustice should seek to make amends. In the New Testament, Zacchaeus declared he would repay four times what he had stolen from people (Luke 19:8). So the Bible shows that making amends for wrongdoing is consistent with living justly.
At the same time, the Bible distinguishes between individual guilt and corporate guilt. Ezekiel 18 makes clear that children are not punished for the sins of their fathers. So notions of collective guilt across generations do not align with Scripture.
2. The Bible values work and self-determination
The apostle Paul instructs, “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Work is part of God’s design for human flourishing. Paul also says, “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need” (Ephesians 4:28). The ability to work and provide for oneself and one’s family is presented as a blessing, not something to be replaced by government programs.
So while the Bible affirms caring for the poor and needy, it does not envision a society where work and self-determination are replaced by government handouts. Christians should be wary of any reparations proposals that undermine personal responsibility and the dignity of work.
3. Repentance and forgiveness are needed to heal racial wounds
The lingering wounds of slavery and racism will not be healed simply by government programs. Jesus said reconciliation with others requires repentance and forgiveness (Matthew 5:23-24). Lasting reconciliation happens through changed hearts, not just changed laws. So Christians should promote both justice and healing in ways that lead to genuine repentance, forgiveness and reconciliation.
4. Solutions should focus on present poverty, not past sins
While the legacy of slavery impacts society today, reparations focus on compensating for the sins of past generations. A better approach is to find solutions focused on present poverty and lack of opportunity. Christians should support education, job creation, financial training, family strengthening and access to healthcare that will help break cycles of poverty and lack of access to opportunity.
5. Avoid resentment between ethnic groups
The Bible warns against sowing seeds of resentment between ethnic groups. Paul told the Romans, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all” (Romans 12:18). Christians should be wary of any social policies that pit ethnic groups against one another. Just solutions should bring people together, not drive them apart.
6. Work for racial reconciliation and unity in Christ
The Bible envisions a multi-ethnic community united in Jesus Christ. At Pentecost, people from all nations were brought together by the Spirit (Acts 2:5-11). The book of Revelation portrays people from every tribe and language worshiping God together (Revelation 7:9). So Christians should promote racial reconciliation that brings people together in Christ, not divide them further apart.
7. Remember that material solutions cannot solve spiritual problems
Ultimately, political and economic reforms cannot heal the spiritual issues underlying injustice and racism. Christians believe only the gospel of Jesus Christ can redeem sinful hearts and transform society. Material reparations may be one part of the solution, but they cannot address the fundamental spiritual problems of pride, greed and hate.
Christians should remember that government programs alone cannot reconcile divided people groups. Changed hearts through the power of the gospel are the only lasting solution to injustice, racism and oppression.
8. Exercise wisdom in supporting specific proposals
When considering specific reparations proposals, Christians should carefully analyze both the potential benefits and unintended consequences. Will the policies promote justice and reconciliation without sowing resentment or undermining work and responsibility? Do the policies focus on present opportunity more than past grievances? Wisdom is needed to support proposals that align with biblical values.
9. Focus on local reconciliation and problem-solving
Instead of getting caught up in endless political debates, Christians can make a real difference by focusing on racial reconciliation in their local communities. They can build relationships across ethnic lines, have open and honest conversations, support minority-owned businesses, improve educational opportunities and work to dismantle systemic injustices.
The church should lead the way in showing that people from diverse backgrounds can love one another and work together for the good of their communities. This local, personal reconciliation can have a greater impact than grand political proposals.
10. Pray and seek the wisdom of Christ
In the end, Christians of all ethnicities must seek the wisdom of Jesus as they navigate this complex issue. Only He can give the grace to walk the narrow path between judgment and truth, justice and forgiveness. Through prayer and humble obedience to God’s Word, Christians can overcome racial divisions and model the reconciliation found only in Christ.
The debate over reparations provides an opportunity for believers to bring biblical principles of justice, repentance, forgiveness and healing to this conversation. Christians should pray for wisdom and God’s guidance in actualizing lasting solutions that reflect the heart and mind of Christ.
