Religious concepts of equality

Question 1

Why can the religion be seen as an asset in pursuing equality?

Answer 1

Because the Bible stresses equality as being essential to the faith the verses like Galatians 3:28

Question 2

State Galatians 3:28

Answer 2

‘There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Jesus Christ

Question 3

Why can it be argued that religion is not valuable to the pursuit of equality?

Answer 3

• The UK and US have both been historically dominated by the ethics of Christianity, yet both societies have been riven by inequality
• Conservative Christians in the US oppose the basic tenets of secular feminism

Question 4

Why is the Bible a mixed bag when it comes to gender equality?

Answer 4

Some Bible verses emphasise that men and women are equal in God’s eyes while others suggest that they have distinct God given roles

Question 5

Why is Eve considered to be a biblical character that has not helped in the fight for gender equality?

Answer 5

• Genesis 2:18 says that she was created as a helper for Adam
• Eve is responsible for listening to the serpent and getting the pair kicked out of the Garden of Eden; this story has therefore been used to justify hatred and oppression towards women

Question 6

How was Jesus an advocate for gender equality?

Answer 6

Women travelled with him and figures like Mary Magdalene played a key role in the gospels

Question 7

How does the NT in particular promote racial equality?

Answer 7

• Biblical verses can be found that emphasise that all races are of equal value to God
• The Parable of the Good Samaritan can be seen as a critique of racist attitudes
• The message of Christ was at the heart of MLK’s teachings about racial equality

Question 8

Why is the OT more complex in terms of examining racial inequality?

Answer 8

It emerged in an ancient world where slavery was commonplace, and features several discussions on how slaves should be treated

Question 9

Give an example of a devout Christian who supported the abolitionist movement

Answer 9

William Wilberforce

Question 10

How was is Jesus actually a poor advocate for disability equality?

Answer 10

Modern disability campaigners are seeking respect, autonomy and equal rights, not a miraculous cure

Question 11

How is Christianity a positive force in disability equality?

Answer 11

• Many legal changes and charities in this field have been spearheaded by Christians
• Modern disability activists, like Tada, have also emphasised the crucial role disabled people have in faith