NO DISTINCTIONS (GALATIANS 3:26-29)

REFLECTION The theme for our reflection is “No Distinctions”, a profound concept drawn from Galatians 3:26-29. To speak of “no distinctions” is to declare the abolition of the man-made barriers—be they social, racial, or economic—that historically fragment the human experience. It signifies that in the economy of God’s grace, there is no hierarchy of value…

Jean-Paul Agidi

Feb 26, 2026

3–5 minutes

bible, faith, jesus, god, galatians

REFLECTION

The theme for our reflection is “No Distinctions”, a profound concept drawn from Galatians 3:26-29. To speak of “no distinctions” is to declare the abolition of the man-made barriers—be they social, racial, or economic—that historically fragment the human experience. It signifies that in the economy of God’s grace, there is no hierarchy of value or access. The fundamental lesson we must grasp is this: faith in Jesus Christ creates a new humanity where our diverse identities are not erased, but are rendered powerless to divide us. In Christ, our common adoption as children of God supersedes every worldly category that seeks to classify or separate us.

Beloved, we must confront the reality that a faith which tolerates exclusion is a faith that contradicts the Gospel. The Apostle Paul is uncompromising on this truth. He writes, “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ” (Galatians 3:26-27). When we are “clothed” with Christ, our primary identity becomes His. Just as a uniform identifies a soldier more than their civilian background, our baptismal identity as “Christ-ones” should be the most visible thing about us. If we share the same Father and are redeemed by the same blood, how can we justify the walls we build? We are reminded in Hebrews 12:2 that Jesus is the “author and perfecter of our faith.” Since our faith originates in the same Source, it must result in the same unity.+1

This call to unity is particularly urgent for the 21st-century church in Africa. While the continent celebrates a vibrant and growing faith, it is often plagued by the “distinctions” Paul sought to dismantle. Paul’s declaration is revolutionary: “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). If Paul were addressing the contemporary African context, he might say there is neither Hutu nor Tutsi, neither Akan nor Ewe, neither Shona nor Ndebele. He would argue there is neither the elite political class nor the impoverished street vendor, for “you are all one in Christ Jesus.” We see the tragedy of these distinctions when tribalism dictates church leadership appointments or when the wealthy are given seats of honour while the poor are ignored. Such practices deny the power of the Cross. We must remember Peter’s revelation in Acts 10:34-35: “I now realise how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” If God—the ultimate Judge—refuses to show favouritism, by what authority does the Church continue to do so? Our mission to the world is hindered when we preach a Gospel of love but live a reality of tribal or class-based silos.

In conclusion, the message of “No Distinctions” is a call to return to the heart of the Gospel. We have seen that through faith and baptism, we are transformed from separate individuals into a single family—“Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise” (Galatians 3:29). The key lesson is simple yet demanding: our unity in Christ is not an optional extra; it is the very evidence of our salvation.

I call upon you today to actively dismantle the “distinctions” in your own heart and your local congregation. Seek out fellowship with those outside your ethnic group, advocate for the dignity of the marginalised, and ensure your church is a house of prayer for all nations. Let us live with the humility of children, for as Christ warned, “Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it” (Mark 10:15). May we be a people amongst whom the world sees no walls, only the seamless robe of Christ.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You that in Christ Jesus, You have broken down the middle wall of partition that once separated us. Forgive us for the times we have allowed tribalism, sexism, or social status to divide Your Body. Clothe us afresh with Christ, that the world may see our unity and believe in Your Son. Grant us the grace to treat every person with the dignity of a fellow heir. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Amen.