The Urgency of the Evangelistic Task (Part 3)

Today’s reading is a continuation of Section 9 of the Lausanne Covenant - The Urgency of the Evangelistic Task. Read the full Section 9 here.

All of us are shocked by the poverty of millions and disturbed by the injustices which cause it. Those of us who live in affluent circumstances accept our duty to develop a simple life-style in order to contribute more generously to both relief and evangelism.

The Impoverished Millions

The Lausanne Covenant speaks of the world’s deprived, poor, and hungry in the context of evangelism, reminding us that world evangelisation will require self-examination. While Christians may differ in defining justice and injustice or in proposing political and economic solutions, we cannot escape the reality that countless millions lack adequate food, shelter, clothing, education, employment, and medical care (Isaiah 58:6-7). Every Christian should be deeply troubled by this and guard against becoming desensitised by constant exposure through the media.

For those living in comfort, the Covenant issues a challenging call: to adopt a simple lifestyle. This phrase prompted much reflection among the original Covenant signatories. Some suggested the wording ‘a simpler lifestyle’, yet the real challenge is not in the wording but in deciding what is necessary and what is excessive. Poverty, simplicity, and generosity mean different things in different contexts—accessible running water may be a luxury in one part of the world, yet an unquestioned norm in another.

Scripture does not set an absolute economic standard. It does not encourage excessive asceticism, nor does it forbid the possession of private property (Acts 5:4); it calls us to enjoy God’s gifts with gratitude (1 Timothy 4:1-5; 6:17). Yet it also commends equality and generosity as reflections of God’s generous grace (2 Corinthians 8:8-15).

Each believer must decide before God what counts as necessity versus luxury, being content with the essentials of life (1 Timothy 6:6-8). Waste—especially of food when others starve—is sin. A practical step may be to review our possessions annually, giving away what we do not use.

Developing a simple lifestyle is both a caring act of solidarity with the poor and a strategic choice for mission. By living with less, we free resources for relief and evangelism—works that are too often hindered by a shortage of funds.

Reflection:

How can you develop a simple lifestyle that enables you to channel resources for kingdom impact?

Prayer:

Lord, teach me contentment, and lead me to live simply so I can give generously for your kingdom’s work.