Understanding Our Shared Human Origin and God’s Purpose for Us All
Discovering Our Common Ground
Sometimes, the simplest truths have the greatest impact. In the Bible, Acts 17:26 tells us something powerful: God made every single person from one ancestor. Put simply, no matter where we’re from, what we look like, or what we believe, we all started from the same place. We’re part of one big family—humanity. This isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a reminder to treat everyone with respect and kindness.
God Has a Plan for Everyone
Acts 17:26 also says that God decided when and where each of us would live. This means our lives aren’t random or accidental. The place you call home, the time you’re living in, and the people around you are all part of God’s plan. He’s guiding everything with purpose, even if we don’t always understand it.
Why Did God Do This?
According to the next verse, God’s reason for creating us and placing us where we are is so we would look for Him, reach out, and find Him. Our differences—like language, culture, or appearance—aren’t meant to keep us apart. Instead, they’re part of the way God invites each of us to get to know Him and discover our own purpose.
Paul’s Message in Athens: One God, One Family
When Paul spoke these words, he was in Athens—a city filled with statues and temples dedicated to many gods. People there thought that different gods controlled different groups of people. Paul’s message was bold and clear: There’s one true God, and He made everyone. No one is better or worse because of where they come from or who they are. We’re all connected, and God wants a relationship with each of us.
What Does This Mean for Us Today?
If we’re all from the same ancestor, then things like racism, prejudice, or treating people unfairly have no place in our lives. Our worth doesn’t come from our background or appearance; it comes from the fact that we’re created by God. This truth encourages us to be unified, to see others as equals, and to stand up against hatred and division.
How Can We Live This Out?
· See everyone as family: Treat people—whether you know them or not—with kindness, because we’re all part of the same human family.
· Embrace your place and purpose: Trust that you’re where you are for a reason. Look for ways God might want you to make a difference right where you live.
· Reject prejudice: Don’t judge people based on their race, background, or beliefs. Stand up against unfair treatment, both in yourself and in your community.
· Celebrate diversity: Our differences make life richer and help us learn from one another. They show us God’s creativity and love for variety.
· Encourage others to seek God: Like Paul did, help those around you see that God wants everyone—no matter who they are—to know Him.
Conclusion: Choosing Unity, Every Day
Acts 17:26 isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a call for all of us to remember that we’re connected, loved, and placed purposefully by God. In a world that often tries to divide us, let’s choose to see one another as family. Let’s treat everyone with dignity, seek God together, and grow side by side. That’s how we can truly live out the message of unity and purpose that Acts 17:26 gives us.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 