The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Christian social justice

Is there such a thing as Christian social justice. If so, what does it look like? Where in Scripture can we find its teaching?

Not completely sure I know what is meant by the term, but my mind goes to James 1:26-27.

Tom

I'm with Tom... can you define "Christian social justice"? I'm not familiar with that phrase. And, of course, being who I am, I have to ask why the question in the first place? In other words, is this a topic you read on another discussion board, Facebook, heard in conversation with some friends, or perhaps it is something which is now being discussed and considered in your local church?

Ok. I really cannot give a definition as it was not spelled out. I was reading the Aquila Report and there was this article on a new ecumenical group with summary bullets of its core values. I will link the article further down. The social justice point was number 6; though the writer of the article place it at the front of the article. Some sees it as positive in that denominations are getting together, instead of para-church groups.

Anyway, back to social justice. I could be very wrong, but I think it is about Christians being involved in correcting societal inequities as we have with abortion and homosexual rights. Whether or not they mean through supporting governmental action I cannot say. They quote Matthew 25 as the proof text, which I do not think teaches social justice. I just see a huge problem when Christians take up trying to make society better. It seems that replaces in emphasis the gospel message itself. I realize it doesn't have to be that way, but it always does.

Here is the article - http://theaquilareport.com/christian-leaders-cross-denominational-lines/

One other small item. They use the word 'truthful' instead of 'inerrant'. I don't like that.

After re-reading the article. I do not see the words 'social justice'. I must have interjected that with something else I have come across in the past.

Yep, just another "ecumenical" movement that ignores the various, contradictory and antithetical theological systems of the participating groups and churches, aka: "lowest common denominator theology".

What grabbed my attention were the following statements:

Really, now... what does this tell you when the PCA, United Methodist, PC(USA), Anglican and Lutheran denominations state that they can work together to bring the "gospel" to the world and share theological training, etc.? In my experience over the years seeing these type of movements come and go, they generally gather around their agreement concerning social issues, particularly abortion. Today, of course, homosexual marriage is thrown into the mix.