Understanding History and God’s Design for Unity and Diversity
Introduction
Have you ever wondered whether the major events that shaped the Americas—the European conquest and the idea of Manifest Destiny—fit into what God originally wanted for people? When we look at history through the lens of simple Bible teachings, especially a verse like Acts 17:26, the answer becomes clearer: much of what happened in the name of conquest and expansion did not line up with God’s plan for unity, respect, and diversity among nations.
In this post, we’ll break down, in everyday language, how the conquest of the Americas and the belief in Manifest Destiny missed the point of God’s design for humanity. We’ll use Acts 17:26—a verse about unity and variety—to show that God had something far better in mind than the violence, loss, and injustice that came with conquest.
Acts 17:26—God’s Blueprint for Humanity
First, let’s look at the basics of Acts 17:26:
· “From one man he made every nation of mankind”—God started humanity from a single person, meaning we’re all connected as one family, no matter where we live or what we look like. The King James Version uses the term “one blood.” “nd hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; (Acts 17:26).
· “To live on all the face of the earth”—God wanted people to spread out and settle in every part of the world, creating communities in every place.
· “Having determined allotted periods”—There’s a purpose and timing for each group; history isn’t random.
· “And the boundaries of their dwelling place”—God set up regions and boundaries, giving every group their own home.
So, God’s plan was for unity (because we all share the same origin) and diversity (with each group having its own place, time, and culture). This design respects every nation and culture, inviting people to live peacefully and appreciate their differences.
What Was Manifest Destiny?
Manifest Destiny is a term from American history that described the idea that the United States was “meant” to expand westward, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Leaders and thinkers in the 1800s claimed this expansion was God’s will, justifying the takeover of land and the removal of Native American nations.
But here’s the simple truth: using God’s name to justify taking land from others, causing suffering, and destroying whole cultures goes directly against the message of Acts 17:26.
How the Conquest of America Contradicted God’s Plan
Let’s line up what really happened—and how it missed God’s intentions for humanity.
1. Destroying Unity and Common Origin
God’s Plan:
All people are connected, coming from the same origin. We’re supposed to see each other as brothers and sisters.
What Happened:
European conquerors saw themselves as superior and treated Indigenous peoples as if they were less than human. Instead of honoring the shared humanity, the conquest built walls—physical and emotional—between groups. Racism, slavery, and violence separated people who were meant to be united.
2. Disrespecting Diversity
God’s Plan:
God gave each nation its place, its culture, and its time in history. Diversity was intentional—a way to make the world richer and more interesting.
What Happened:
Conquerors tried to erase Indigenous languages, religions, and ways of life. In the Americas, European powers built their own cities (often on top of ancient Indigenous sites), replaced local leaders with foreign rulers, and punished or banned traditions that had flourished for centuries. The result was the loss of countless cultures, languages, and spiritual beliefs that God had allowed to develop.
3. Ignoring God-Given Boundaries
God’s Plan:
Acts 17:26 says that God “determined the boundaries of their dwelling place.” This means He intended for each group to have its own home—a place to live, thrive, and belong.
What Happened:
Manifest Destiny and the conquest were about ignoring boundaries. Native Americans and other groups were forced from their lands—sometimes violently—so others could claim them. The Trail of Tears, for example, saw thousands of Cherokee people marched away from their homeland; many did not survive. Instead of respecting boundaries, expansion often meant pushing people out and taking what wasn’t theirs.
4. Twisting Faith to Justify Harm
God’s Plan:
God’s message is about love, justice, and respect for others. The Bible teaches humility and compassion, not conquest and domination.
What Happened:
People used religion—claiming it was “God’s will”—to excuse violence, greed, and injustice. The idea of Manifest Destiny made many believe they were doing something sacred, even as they hurt others. But Biblical teachings, including Acts 17:26, call for kindness, not conquest; for respect, not erasure.
Consequences That Still Matter Today
The effects of these wrong turns in history are still with us:
· Lost Cultures: Many Indigenous languages and traditions were nearly wiped out. Only now are people working to revive them.
· Racial Inequality: Systems created in colonial times—putting Europeans at the top, others at the bottom—still shape who has power and who faces poverty.
· Diversity and Resilience: Despite everything, new cultures and people emerged from the mixing of Indigenous, European, and African roots. Food, music, art, and holidays in the Americas reflect both loss and creativity.
· Questioning the “Chosen” Narrative: More people now ask: Was the conquest really God’s plan, or just a justification for taking what belonged to others?
Learning From the Past—A Better Way Forward
Instead of excusing harm by saying it was “meant to be,” we can look to verses like Acts 17:26 to build a better world:
· Respect Boundaries: Every group, every nation, has a right to its place and traditions. We’re called to honor that, not erase it.
· Celebrate Diversity: Our differences are gifts from God, meant to be protected and enjoyed.
· Build Unity: No one is more “chosen” or worthy than anyone else. We’re all part of one human family, called to care for each other.
· Work for Justice: Where past wrongs have led to inequality or pain, we can work together to set things right—supporting Indigenous communities, protecting languages, and ensuring fairness for all.
Conclusion
Manifest Destiny and the conquest of America were not in step with God’s original plan for humanity. Instead of respecting the unity, diversity, and boundaries God gave, these ideas led to division, suffering, and injustice.
But the story doesn’t have to end there. By understanding what went wrong, and by returning to the simple, powerful message of Acts 17:26, we can build bridges instead of walls—celebrating what makes us unique, and working for a world where everyone is seen, valued, and respected.
In plain terms: God wanted a world full of different people living in harmony, each group with its own home and culture. Conquest and expansion tried to overwrite that plan—but it’s never too late to learn, to change, and to choose a better path forward.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 