The events that unfolded during the colonization of the Americas and the displacement of Native American peoples are complex and marked by human decisions and actions that have caused deep suffering and loss. It’s important to approach such questions with humility and a seeking heart, understanding that the Bible teaches God’s love, justice, and righteousness for all peoples of the earth.

The Bible does recount times when God commanded the Israelites to occupy lands inhabited by other nations, primarily in the Old Testament. These commands were specific to particular times, places, and purposes within God’s redemptive history leading to the coming of Jesus Christ. For example, in Genesis 15:16, God tells Abram, “In the fourth generation your descendants will come back here, for the sin of the Amorites has not yet reached its full measure.” These narratives are part of a larger theological context about sin, judgment, and redemption.

However, applying these specific historical commands to justify later actions, such as the European colonization of the Americas, is a misunderstanding of the nature of biblical revelation and God’s purposes revealed in Jesus Christ. The New Testament teaches that in Christ, there is no longer Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for all are one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28). The message of Jesus is one of reconciliation, love, and peace.

Christians are called to love their neighbors as themselves (Mark 12:31), seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8). Acts of injustice, oppression, or harm against any group of people stand in opposition to the teachings of Jesus.

Understanding the suffering and injustices experienced by Native Americans requires a heart of compassion and a commitment to justice and reconciliation. It is a call to live out the teachings of Jesus in how we love and serve others, seek forgiveness where harm has been done, and work towards healing and justice in our relationships and communities.

Let us always strive to reflect God’s heart for all peoples and to live out the reconciling message of the Gospel in our words, actions, and relationships.