Answer
Kingdom race theology (KRT) is a biblical framework that emphasizes the unity and diversity of God’s people, advocating for racial reconciliation and justice. The term kingdom race theology was coined by Dr. Tony Evans to counter the unbiblical ideas found in critical race theory (CRT). KRT is based on the principle that everyone is created in the image of God (imago dei) and that the kingdom of God transcends racial, ethnic, and cultural boundaries. Kingdom race theology teaches that racism has no place in society or the church.
The foundation of kingdom race theology is the biblical affirmation of human equality. Genesis 1:27 states, “God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (ESV). Every person has inherent dignity, irrespective of his or her race or ethnicity. The recognition of the imago dei in every person is central to kingdom race theology.
The New Testament further reinforces the theme of unity and equality among believers. In Galatians 3:28, Paul writes, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (ESV). In Christ, racial and social barriers come down. We are all sinners saved the same way, by grace through faith. In the kingdom of God, all are equally forgiven and equally granted an eternal inheritance in Christ.
Kingdom race theology does not ignore racial or ethnic distinctives; rather, it affirms and celebrates them as being divinely created. Those differences can be the means “through which God displays His multi-faceted glory as His people justly, righteously, and responsibly function personally and corporately in unity under the Lordship of Jesus Christ” (Evans, A., sermon preached at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, 7/14/21).
Kingdom race theology also draws inspiration from the life of Jesus, who actively challenged the racial and social prejudices of His time. In the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37), Jesus teaches His disciples about the importance of loving and showing compassion to those who are different from us, regardless of ethnic and cultural traditions. The Samaritan, a member of a group despised by Jews (cf. John 4:9), is the true neighbor who shows mercy in the parable. The Samaritan exemplifies the kingdom call to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31).
The story of Pentecost in Acts 2 is another example of the inclusive nature of God’s kingdom. On this day, people from various nations and ethnic backgrounds gathered in Jerusalem. The Holy Spirit then enabled the disciples to speak in different languages, allowing everyone to hear the gospel in their own tongue. This moment signifies the unifying power of the Holy Spirit and the inclusion of all peoples in God’s redemptive plan.
Additionally, the vision of the heavenly worship described in Revelation 7:9–10 presents a picture of ultimate unity and diversity in the kingdom of God. John writes, “After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, ‘Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb’” (ESV). There were differences amid the multitude, and those differences were noticeable, but the unity before God’s throne was primary.
Kingdom race theology calls for practical application in the lives of believers. KRT teaches that Christians should actively pursue racial reconciliation and true justice, reflecting the biblical principles of humility, justice, and mercy. Those who have shown racist behaviors must acknowledge and repent of past and present racial injustices, build relationships across racial lines, and work toward systemic change.
Critics of kingdom race theology may argue that focusing on race detracts from the spiritual unity believers have in Christ. Proponents of kingdom race theology maintain that addressing racial issues is integral to living out the gospel. They argue that ignoring racial injustices perpetuates division and hinders the church’s witness. So, by actively engaging in racial reconciliation and justice, Christians embody the kingdom values of love, justice, and peace.
