Marginalized

<<sidelined, disregarded>>

Those marginalized are communities or individuals who experience disadvantage, exclusion, or discrimination due to their race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.  Anyone who appears to deviate from or doesn’t fit a population's perceived norms may become subject to coarse or subtle social exclusion. This can lead to limited access to resources, opportunities, and a higher risk of violence and unfair treatment. In the Christian context, this is most commonly because they are committed followers of Christ, resulting in persecution and often death because of the refusal to deny their Master.

Jesus declared that He had come to proclaim good news to the poor, to free captives, to restore sight to the blind, and to set the oppressed free (Lk 4:18,19). He associated with sinners, tax collectors, and other outcasts, which was considered scandalous by some religious leaders (Lk 5:27-32, 7:29,34). His words were confirmed and supported by His actions. His numerous miracles benefited those who were ostracised and suffering, who probably thought God had forsaken them and that there was no hope (Mt 4:24, 14:14, 15:30…). Having mercy on the lowest of the low in Jewish society, Jesus acknowledged the leper’s humanity and significance. The blind were also shoved to the margins of society since they couldn’t participate in ordinary life. But even if they could not see Jesus, He saw them and often stretched out His hand to restore their sight. He also emphasized that those who humble themselves would be exalted, while those who exalt themselves would be humbled. 

Consistently, Jesus prioritized the well-being of the marginalized, demonstrating that their needs and dignity were paramount. He intentionally reached out with compassion and the power to make a difference in the lives of the outcast and the socially excluded, those others avoided, dismissed, or deemed unworthy. In Jesus, we see the gospel incarnate, visibly outworked. His ability to redeem and restore knows no limits.

Despite widespread marginalization, Jesus repeatedly broke down barriers. These included those against women whom He treated with dignity, compassion, and equality (Jn 4:7-26, 11:5). Children were often considered insignificant at this time and a nuisance to be avoided. Yet He openly welcomed them, emphasizing their importance in the kingdom of heaven (Mt 19:13-15). 

Tensions between the Jews and Samaritans had simmered for centuries, with the Samaritans, who were ethnically mixed, considered socially unclean.  Jesus' mission on earth was to seek and to save the lost, and He taught that the hated Samaritans could also belong to God, for the Kingdom is available for all who will repent (Lk 19:10; 2 Pet 3:9). In the parable, the despised Samaritan is the only one who cares for the person robbed and beaten. The application is that we are also to “Go and do likewise” to those needing our help (Lk 10:25-37).

God protects the vulnerable, not because they are inherently more righteous, but because they are more at risk without protection from injustice. We are to shield them in their defenceless state and as they may be unable to fend for themselves, we have a moral duty to ensure they are not oppressed (Prov 22:22,23, 31:8,9; Isa 1:17; Mic 6:8; Jas 1:27).

Jesus meets us where we hurt most, addressing our sin, which is a greater marginalizing force than illness or rejection. “But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ” (Eph 2:13). No one is too unworthy, or too marginalized to receive His grace if they will but repent and turn to Him, transformed from societies outcasts to become beloved members of God’s household.

is consistently extended towards the marginalized, it is imperative to determine accurately who is truly oppressed from a moral standpoint. Impartially, divine favour is extended to those who fear Him and act righteously (Act 10:34-35). Even marginalized individuals can incur God’s displeasure through unrighteous behaviour or lifestyle because holiness is the crucial determining factor.

Jesus came to earth to reach and restore broken individuals. He sought out those shunned by society and ministered to their needs. As His followers, we should endeavour to do the same. We are instructed to treat others as we wish to be treated (Lk 6:31).

See also: empathy, estrangement, hurts, interact, justice, mercy, persecution, self-pity, victim mentality, vulnerable.