“US AGAINST THEM”

“Either way, Christ’s love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for all, we also believe that we have all died to our old life. He died for everyone so that those who receive his new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them.” – 2 Corinthians 5:14-15.

In a world often divided by lines of race, class, nationality, politics, and beliefs, the human tendency is to view others as “them” rather than “us.” We tend to hang out with people who agree with us and to see those with whom we disagree as “other.” We do this in both small areas (such as food and sports teams) and large ones (like family and faith). Whether it’s a tiff with a spouse, a disagreement with a friend, or an argument with a boss, we immediately adopt an “us versus them” mentality. It’s just how we’re wired. The “Us versus Them” mentality is rife in the world.  I’m right, you’re wrong. There is no grey.

If we are to practice the way of Jesus, we are called to bridge these divisions and embrace a love that unites rather than separates. The foundation for this is the Gospel truth: God died for everyone.

God’s love is inclusive. John 3:16 says, “For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” This verse reminds us that salvation, grace, and the hope of eternal life are available to all people—regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or social status. Jesus’ sacrifice was not just for a select group but for the entire world. His death and resurrection broke down barriers and opened the way for salvation for everyone.

The us-versus-them mentality can cause us to view the people in the “them” category as adversaries or enemies rather than as people that God loves and died for. As believers, we are called to mirror God’s love—a love that is patient, kind, and inclusive. Jesus practiced this love by reaching out to Samaritans, tax collectors, sinners, and outsiders—those traditionally considered “them.” His example reminds us that God’s love extends beyond our comfort zones and cultural boundaries.

The Great Commission is to make disciples of all nations. This command emphasizes that the Gospel is for everyone, not just a select group. When we embrace this truth, it naturally counters the us-versus-them mindset. We become witnesses to a love that crosses boundaries and unites us in Christ.

The message of the Gospel is clear: Christ’s death was for everyone. As we work to be with Jesus, become like Jesus, and do what He did, we can work to see others through God’s eyes. There is no us versus them in God’s kingdom.

1. What are some examples of an “us versus them” mentality you’ve seen or experienced in daily life, inside or outside the church? What was the result?
2. Why are people so susceptible to this way of thinking?
3. What can we do to reduce the “us” versus “them” mentality?”