Understanding What the Bible Says About Humanity and How It Was Misused in History
“ 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.” (Acts 17:26)
When we read Acts 17:26, it tells us something powerful: “God made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place.” In plain English, this means that God made all people from a common ancestor and set the times and places where nations would exist. It shows that everyone is connected, and that our existence and borders are part of God’s plan—not for one group to dominate, but for all of us to live together on this earth.
What Is Manifest Destiny?
Now, let’s talk about Manifest Destiny. In the 1800s, many people in the United States believed that Americans had a special right (some even said a “God-given” right) to spread across the whole continent. This idea was called Manifest Destiny. People thought it was their mission to expand the country, bring their way of life, and take over new lands. But that’s not what the Scripture says.
Some leaders and writers, like John L. O’Sullivan, American columnist, and diplomat who coined the term “manifest destiny said that this expansion was not just a good idea, but something that was meant to happen—almost like it was written in the stars.
The Big Problem: Distorting the Message
Here’s where things got twisted. Some supporters of Manifest Destiny tried to use the Bible—or at least the idea that God controls nations—to justify taking land from others, especially Native Americans and people in neighboring countries. They acted as if God wanted them to take over, no matter who got hurt in the process.
But if you look back at Acts 17:26, you see that the verse is about unity, common humanity, and God’s care for all nations—not about one group being better or deserving more land than another. The Bible doesn’t say one group should take whatever they want just because they believe it’s their destiny.
What Happened Because of Manifest Destiny?
Because people believed in Manifest Destiny, the United States grew a lot. The country got bigger through deals, wars, and treaties—like taking Texas, California, and other areas. But this growth came at a huge price:
· Native Americans were forced off their land, often in violent and unfair ways.
· Many communities were destroyed and families torn apart.
· It made the issue of slavery worse, leading to heated debates and, eventually, the Civil War.
· It left long-lasting scars on people and the land.
The Takeaway
The main point here is that Acts 17:26 teaches us about the unity and equality of all people. It reminds us that God’s plan is for every nation and person to have value, not for one group to justify hurting another in the name of destiny. Manifest Destiny was a human idea that twisted these truths, leading to harm and injustice.
So when we talk about history and beliefs, it’s important to go back to the real message: we’re all made by God, we’re all connected, and we shouldn’t use faith or destiny as excuses to treat others unfairly.
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