Every human life is sacred. Created in the image of God, all people are bestowed dignity, worth, and endless opportunity. Human societies ideally exemplify equality, fairness, respect, and freedom for every person. Sin’s curse distorts and corrupts both individuals and societies. Even when unrecognized, to dominate or marginalize others is rooted in selfishness and greed producing racism, discrimination, and injustice. This destructive pattern is broken by the redemptive work of God as taught in Scripture and ultimately revealed in Jesus Christ. The Seventh-day Adventist Church is called to proclaim the transforming and reconciling message of the Gospel while opposing practices and policies that perpetuate prejudice and inequality. In fulfilling its mission, the Body of Christ must challenge racism, discrimination, and injustice by individuals and society while working purposefully towards equitable opportunities so that all people may experience God’s redemption and restoration.
(Genesis 1:26-28; Psalm 139:13-16; Isaiah 1:16-17,23; Micah 6:8; Zechariah 7:9-10; John 1:12-14; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21; James 4:17-21; Isaiah 64:6; 1 John 1:7-9; Philippians 2:4; Matthew 23:23; Matthew 25:31-46; Revelation 18:4, 9-11)
September 23, 2020
Pacific Union Conference Executive Committee
