Addressing Classism in Churches
Praise Chiamaka
Classism occurs when individuals or groups are treated differently because of their socio-economic background, and trust me, this is very common in most churches.
Many people have experienced classism at some point in their lives, especially at large-scale gatherings like the church.
While it is often overlooked and downplayed, it may leave subtle yet lasting feelings of hurt on individuals, especially those who aren't strong in their faith.
In the bible, the book of 2 Tim 2:20 says,” Now in a great house, there are not only vessels of gold and of silver but also of wood and clay.”
Those individuals could be likened to sand when comparing their personality, how we use them, and how they should be handled. However, they were still not taken into consideration.
Most of them fell out of faith due to the discrimination they faced. They questioned everything that pertained to Christ, all because of the church's classist acts.
The Church has walls, but Christ came to tear down those walls—Walls of Classism, walls of discrimination, and biases. Christ didn't come for some; he came for all.
What is Classism?
According to the Oxford dictionary, Classism is a form of discrimination and prejudice based on social class.
It refers to biases and unfair treatment people face because of their economic status, perceived wealth, education level, occupation, and even the denomination they belong to.
Classism perpetuates inequality by privileging certain classes while disadvantaging others, leading to systemic and societal disparities.
Classism occurs when individuals or groups are treated differently because of their socio-economic background, and trust me, this is very common in most churches.
How do you identify Classism in Churches?
1. Reserving Front rows and special seats for ‘Special people’
This is common amongst most churches. Sometimes, members, ushers, or higher officials reserve special seats for influential and rich people even though other members of the church arrive earlier than they do.
Unfortunately, some churches evaluate their members based on their economic status and academic background before designating seats to them. Such that members who are early to church, hoping for comfortable seats, are denied these.
2. Partiality in Gifts and Other Privileges
One's background, appearance, and influence can greatly affect their access to important resources. It could be a gift, and it could also be an opportunity.
Classism could also come as disregard for the less privileged, manifested in behaviors like neglect. Neglecting people's feelings and refusal to render help even when you're able, all in the name of being in a different class—this is CLASSISM.
3. Acquiring positions in the church
Classism can also be shown when it comes to acquiring positions in the church. In many cases, talented members find it difficult to assume some positions due to the church's biases towards those with more influence and social status. This is because people of influence either manipulate church leaders or church leaders think them better as a form of reputation enhancement for the church.
The Truth about Classism
The issue of Classism is common, but only among a few churches.. The reality is that not everything we label as Classism is really Classism. Most times, it's our emotions playing out in our expressions and behaviors towards other people.
Everyone has their opinions and views, but that shouldn't disrupt your relationship and kindness to everyone. Most people do not relate to other people from the lower class unless they're compelled to, and it's totally bad.
One can even decide to only relate to some kinds of people according to particular seasons, and that's alright.
It becomes a problem when you constantly look down on the lower people and you don't see any good in them.
Your status should not stop you from associating with people of the lower class. If one of the points of being a Christian is the realization that we are one in Christ, then you should not see yourself as deserving of special treatment in the church.
How can it be stopped?
Classism can be corrected in the church; if not, it will be a means by which the devil penetrates.
James 2:1–4 warns against favoritism in the church, saying “if you honor the man in fine clothes but disregard the poor man, you’ve become judges with evil thoughts.”
Simply, Classism can be stopped if only we as individuals love genuinely.
Let your love be without limits. Genuinely love your neighbors and everyone around you, regardless of their social class, perceived wealth, or background.
If you love them, you'll treat them the exact way you want to be treated.
The Golden Rule states, “Do unto others as you want them to do unto you”.
Start from where you are currently to practice genuineness and love; by doing so, God will be pleased with you.
Conclusion
Classism in the church is real, and though many overlook it, the damage it causes is deep. The church should be a place where everyone feels welcome, not where people are judged or placed in categories because of wealth, education, or background. Christ came to break down these walls, not to build them.
It begins with us. If we truly claim to be Christians, then our love must go beyond limits. Treat people the way you want to be treated. Stop seeing others as less because of what they have or don’t have. Remember, Christ didn’t die for a class of people—He died for all.
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Posted Nov 6, 2025
Discussion on classism in churches and its impact. Through knowledge, walls can be rebuilt.
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Oct 10, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
