Question

What can we do to avoid contributing to this world’s injustices? (Colossians 3:10, 11)

Answer 1

Colossians 3:10–11 reminds Christians that the “new self” is being renewed to the image of its Creator and that in Christ the old dividing labels (Greek/Jew, slave/free, male/female) no longer determine a person’s worth. From that starting point, avoiding contribution to the world’s injustices means letting that renewed identity shape how we think, speak, choose, and act.

Practical steps you can take

- Examine your heart and mind. Ask God to show you hidden prejudices, selfish habits, and ways you benefit from or ignore injustice. Confess and repent of them.
- Renew your thinking. Intentionally learn about injustices (racism, economic exploitation, sex‑trafficking, discrimination, etc.) so your choices reflect truth, not ignorance or stereotype.
- Treat people as image‑bearers. Make the “no distinctions” principle real in your relationships: listen to marginalized voices, show respect, and refuse to dehumanize anyone.
- Be fair in daily life. Pay fair wages, resist exploiting others for convenience or profit, be honest in business, refuse gossip and stereotyping.
- Use your consumer power. Choose products and companies that respect workers’ rights and the environment; avoid goods produced by exploitation.
- Speak up and act. When you see injustice, gently but firmly confront it, support victims, and work for systemic change through community organizing, advocacy, or voting.
- Give time and resources. Support ministries and organizations that help the oppressed, and invest financially where it promotes dignity and opportunity.
- Model equality in your spheres of influence. In family, church, and work, promote inclusion and fair treatment rather than favoritism or exclusion.
- Practice solidarity, not saviorism. Work alongside marginalized people, amplifying their leadership and needs rather than imposing your solutions.
- Pray and persist. Ask God for wisdom, courage, and compassion; stay committed even when change is slow.

These actions flow from being “renewed” in Christ: they replace old patterns of privilege, indifference, and division with love, justice, and humility. If you want, I can suggest specific books, organizations, or small first steps tailored to your situation.