How a Biblical Phrase Changed History and Inspires Unity Today
Introduction
Have you ever heard the saying, “Jew nor Greek. their is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female, for you are all one in Christ”? It comes from the Bible, Galatians 3:28, and it’s all about treating everyone equally—no matter where they’re from, what they look like, or whether they’re a man or woman.
Origin of the Phrase
This phrase appears in Galatians 3:28, but similar ideas are found in other parts of the New Testament, like Colossians 3:11 and Romans 10:12. Back then, the world was divided by things like race, background, and social status. But this Bible verse says that when it comes to faith in Jesus Christ, those things don’t make anyone better or worse.
What Does It Mean?
In plain English, Galatians 3:28 teaches that every person who believes in Jesus is equal in God’s eyes. Whether you’re rich or poor, famous or unknown, from any background, male or female, it doesn’t matter. Old barriers—like being a Jew or a non-Jew (called Greeks in the Bible), a slave or a free person, a man or a woman—don’t affect how God sees you or whether you can be saved. Everyone has the same chance to be part of God’s family.
Why Is This Important?
At the time, this was a revolutionary idea. Society was full of divisions—people were ranked by wealth, birth, gender, and more. But Galatians 3:28 flipped that thinking. Suddenly, being part of God’s family wasn’t about where you were born or what group you belonged to. It was about your faith.
This idea helped break down walls that kept people apart. It meant that women weren’t seen as less than men, and that slaves and free people were equally valued in church. It set the stage for treating everyone with respect and kindness. Over time, it inspired movements for equality and justice—like the push to end slavery and give equal rights to women.
Living Out This Equality
According to Christian teaching, when people accept Jesus, they become part of God’s family—not just followers, but children of God. Going through rituals like baptism doesn’t guarantee these blessings; what matters is a true change inside, a new way of living.
This message of equality doesn’t mean that everyone is the same in every way—people still have different talents, jobs, or roles. But when it comes to faith, everyone stands on equal ground. The church is meant to be a community where nobody is excluded or favored because of their status or background.
Conclusion
Galatians 3:28 is a powerful reminder that, in God’s eyes, all believers are equal. This idea was radical for its time, and it continues to encourage unity, respect, and kindness. No matter your story, you belong—and that’s something worth celebrating.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 