In this first topic post of our “Common Sense” series, we’ll delve deeper into the issue and misunderstanding of equity versus equality. The “woke,” liberal hive-mind mindset seems to completely misunderstand the reality of the ridiculousness of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and how they often undermine the very concept they claim to champion—equality. A little education, though, goes a long way, and that’s what we hope to provide in this post.
In contemporary discourse, the terms equity and equality are often used interchangeably, yet they embody distinct principles that lead to drastically different outcomes in society. Understanding these differences is essential for creating a fair and just community. But this isn’t just a sociological or political issue; it’s deeply tied to spiritual principles, biblical teachings, and the God-given value of each individual.
Defining Equality and Equity
Equality refers to treating everyone the same, providing the same resources or opportunities regardless of unique circumstances. This approach assumes a level playing field but ignores the individual needs and challenges people face. Spiritually, this mirrors the principle of impartiality seen in Scripture, for example:
For God does not show favoritism. (Romans 2:11)
Equality is about ensuring that everyone is seen as equally valuable in the eyes of God, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Equity, by contrast, involves recognizing individual differences and tailoring resources to meet specific needs. At first glance, this might seem consistent with biblical compassion, such as Jesus feeding the five thousand or healing the sick. But equity’s modern interpretation often shifts from helping individuals to enforcing equal outcomes, regardless of merit or personal responsibility. This departs from biblical justice, which is rooted in fairness, accountability, and mercy working together:
But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream. (Amos 5:24)
The Spiritual Danger of Misinterpreted Equity
The modern equity movement’s focus on outcomes rather than opportunities can lead to resentment, reverse discrimination, and a distortion of biblical justice. Scripture teaches us that each person is unique and is given talents and opportunities according to God’s plan (Matthew 25:14–30).
Often referred to as The Parable of the Talents, this passage is a story Jesus tells to illustrate the principles of stewardship, accountability, and the kingdom of heaven. In the parable, a master entrusts three servants with varying amounts of money (talents) before going on a journey: one receives five talents, another two, and the third one talent. Each is given according to their ability.
The first two servants invest their talents and double the amount, earning praise from their master upon his return. They are rewarded with greater responsibilities and invited to share in their master’s joy. The third servant, however, buries his talent out of fear, failing to do anything productive with it. The master rebukes him for his laziness and poor stewardship, taking the talent away and giving it to the servant with ten talents. The parable concludes with a sobering message: those who use their gifts and opportunities wisely will be rewarded, while those who squander them will face consequences.
This passage emphasizes responsibility, faithfulness, and the expectation to actively contribute to God’s kingdom with what has been entrusted to us. Forcing outcomes ignores this individuality and risks devaluing both personal effort and God-given differences.
To take this reality a bit deeper, consider that equity can cross the line into covetousness—a violation of the Tenth Commandment. When equity is framed as taking from one group to give to another, it often stirs envy and division, rather than fostering unity or reconciliation.
You shall not covet… anything that belongs to your neighbor. (Exodus 20:17)
True equity, as God envisions, is not about redistributing resources unfairly but about lifting the vulnerable without tearing others down.
Scientific and Sociological Illustrations
To further clarify, consider the often-cited illustration of three individuals of varying heights trying to see over a fence. Providing each person with the same box to stand on (equality) leaves the shortest person without a clear view. Giving each person a box tailored to their height (equity) allows all three to see the game.
But here’s where the illustration falters: Why is the fence there in the first place? And who decides what’s “fair”? Equity policies often seek to address the symptoms rather than the systemic causes of inequality. The better solution would be to remove the fence altogether, creating true equality by addressing root issues like access to education, opportunity, and personal empowerment.
The Biblical Call to Balance: Mercy and Justice
Scripture repeatedly calls us to balance mercy and justice, neither leaning too far toward permissiveness nor cruelty. Micah 6:8 provides clear instruction:
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
This balance is lost when equity becomes a weapon for coercion or resentment. True equity, guided by biblical principles, acknowledges both the dignity and responsibility of individuals. It does not excuse wrongdoing or ignore the need for personal effort. Instead, it seeks to lift others while honoring fairness, justice, and grace.
Critiques of Modern Equity Movements
Critics of modern equity policies often highlight their tendency to focus on equalizing outcomes at the expense of individual freedom and merit. For example:
The View’s Misguided Narrative: On The View, co-host Sunny Hostin labeled President Donald Trump a “DEI hire,” reducing his leadership to an issue of identity rather than merit. This highlights the broader problem of dismissing accomplishments based on identity politics.
Reverse Discrimination Concerns: The Cato Institute warns that equity initiatives often prioritize group identity over individual merit, creating unintended consequences like resentment, division, and reverse discrimination. By focusing on equalizing outcomes rather than ensuring fair opportunities, these policies risk devaluing individual achievement and fostering an environment of entitlement. This approach can alienate individuals who feel their efforts and abilities are overlooked in favor of fulfilling quotas or identity-based objectives.
(Wonderful resources to explore these concerns further can be found on Cato.org.)
Restoring Common Sense and Biblical Wisdom
Understanding the nuanced differences between equity and equality is critical for promoting a society that reflects fairness and God’s design. Equality ensures uniform opportunity, while equity—when rooted in biblical principles—can uplift those in need without compromising justice or merit.
In the words of Martin Luther King Jr., “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This justice, however, cannot be twisted into favoritism or coercion. It must be guided by truth, grace, and a humble acknowledgment of our shared humanity.
As we continue this series, let’s rise above divisive rhetoric and focus on fostering a society rooted in common sense, emotional intelligence, and biblical truth. Only by returning to these foundational principles can we build a fair, balanced, and compassionate community.
The Twin Tree Project 