Christian Social Responsibility (Part 3)

Today’s reading is a continuation of Section 5 of the Lausanne Covenant - Christian Social Responsibility. Read Here.

Although reconciliation with other people is not reconciliation with God, nor is social action evangelism, nor is political liberation salvation, nevertheless we affirm that evangelism and socio-political involvement are both part of our Christian duty. For both are necessary expressions of our doctrines of God and Man, our love for our neighbour and our obedience to Jesus Christ. The message of salvation implies also a message of judgment upon every form of alienation, oppression and discrimination, and we should not be afraid to denounce evil and injustice wherever they exist.

The Doctrine of Salvation

For many, the word ‘salvation’ is unwelcome, embarrassing, or meaningless. Some equate it with political or economic liberation. The Lausanne Covenant rejects this definition, as it is not biblical.

While salvation is not the same as political liberation, Christians are still called to engage in social action—caring for society’s wounded—and political action—addressing unjust systems (Isaiah 58:6-8). Both evangelistic and social involvement flow naturally from what we believe about God and humankind, from our love for our neighbour, and from our obedience to Jesus Christ (James 2:14-17).

We must not reduce salvation to political freedom. Yet the message of salvation implies God’s judgment against alienation, oppression, and discrimination. Salvation is deliverance from evil. When God saves people from evil, his action carries with it a clear judgment on the evil from which he rescues them.

God hates evil and injustice (Proverbs 6:16-19). His saving work not only restores individuals to himself but also confronts the wrongs that damage and destroy human life. This means the gospel cannot be preached in a way that ignores the realities of suffering, exploitation, and oppression.

True salvation is far greater than political reform—it is God’s work to free people from sin, reconcile them to himself, and ultimately renew all things.

Reflection:

How can your witness for Christ address both personal salvation and the injustices people face in daily life?

Prayer:

Lord, make me a faithful witness to your salvation—proclaiming the gospel and standing against all forms of injustice.