The Apostle Paul spoke well of this subject in his letter to Titus.  "As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain men not to teach  false doctrines any longer, nor to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies.  These promote controversies rather than God's work--which is by faith." 1 Tim 1:3 & 4

During the past two decades, several groups have been on a relentless campaign to capture the hearts of many African Americans by focusing on their heritage. They have captured the imagination of both men and women by teaching about ancient African civilizations and separation, rather than integration and assimilation to Godly principles.

Some Christian ministries, within the Black community, have toed the same line neglecting the teachings of Christ. Instead of building faith and commitment to God, self-esteem has become the knew focus. Instead of focusing on who we are in Christ, they're pointing to the successes of ancient pagan civilizations.  Jesus said, "Your mother, your brother, and your sister, are those that do the will of the Father who is in heaven." Matthew 12:46-50

Unfortunately, many in the church today believe God created our different physical characteristics to keep us divided.  Recall that God told the Jews not to marry outside of the Jewish race.  The intent was to avoid the ways of the pagans.  As believers, we are all one body and all have one Father God.  A well known White charismatic pastor recently told his congregation it was  acceptable to fellowship with Blacks, but he didn't want his children to marry them.  When he was confronted by a number of prominent Black pastors, he apologized that someone had released this confidential information. He would not apologize for his statement since it was what he truly believed. 

His point of view, unfortunately, is representative of the vast majority of so called Christians.  If leaders in the church don't step forward and take a stand against this sort of viewpoint, how can we expect members of their congregations to think otherwise.  The apostle Peter rebuked fellow Jewish Christians that criticized him for eating with uncircumcised Christians.  There aren't very many Christians around with the boldness and commitment of Paul.

There are many cultural differences that divide us; and as we approach the end of this age, greater division will be apparent.  Diversity instead of unity is now are primary focus.  The exploitation of ethnic diversity will lead to further alienation for some groups.  Satan has done a masterful job in dividing us into Baptist, Episcopalian, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Catholic, Methodist, AME, etc.  There are Black churches, and White churches, and Korean churches, etc.  Churches have made an effort to show their differences, rather than displaying their similarities.

It is time to lay down the doctrines of men and be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.  Unity, not diversity, is what we must seek.  United we stand, and divided we fall.  God's Word is what builds strong self-esteem.  Faith in God, and not in ourselves, is the key to success and happiness.