DEI in Sheep’s Clothing (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion)
Sermon Series
Sermon Study Guide
Scripture
1 Cor 12:11-26;
2 Cor 11:14-15;
Mattew 7:15-16
Speaker
Pastor Joey
Sermon Study Guide
Q1: Icebreaker: In the example of 3 people of different heights trying to look over a fence, what would you choose to do? Would you give everyone the same box meaning equal treatment, but only one can see over the fence, while the other struggles to see or can’t see? Or would you give everyone a different height box meaning unequal treatment but equal outcome? Any other solutions you would try?
Q2: Body of Christ: 1Cor 12 describes diversity, equity, and inclusion, in the body of Christ. The purpose of the diversity is for each part to help do its part and role in the body, to value each member, and to honor those parts that do not get equal honor. Do you think this is an applicable model for DEI in society? Why or why not?
Q3: The “isms”: Racism, sexism, ageism, ableism, classism, etc. these are not just about discrimination, bias, and prejudice. These are about power. Which of the “isms” in history do you care most about and why? What has been your own experience with any of these “isms”?
Q4: Entitlement & Qualification: Do you think people groups should be entitled to equal representation and protected by hiring/acceptance quotas? Do you think a person’s demographics should be a qualification (or disqualification) for hiring and firing? Why or why not?
Q5: Unity: Do you think diversity itself means that society is better? Or is it unity in the midst of diversity that makes society better? Have you seen examples of diversity yielding division rather than unity?
Q6: Equality: Why is it that some industries and positions should have equal representation, but others should not, like professional sports teams?
Q7: God’s View: Pastor Joey lists out some very positive aspects of DEI according to God’s Word, and compares it with a twisted presentation of DEI. God also cares about the heart rather than appearances. And Jesus is about giving away power rather than wielding it. The sheep’s clothing of DEI can look the same on the outside, but it’s what’s underneath that is suspect. How do you personally discern what is under the appearance of things?
Q8: Take-Home: What part of this sermon on DEI was most helpful? How will you apply the biblical concepts of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to your life? And how will this help you not win more arguments, but win more people to Christ?
