What is Social Concern?
We affirm that God is both the Creator and Judge of all mankind. We therefore share His concern for justice and reconciliation throughout human society and for the liberation of mankind from every kind of oppression. Because mankind is made in the image of God, every person, regardless of race, religion, color, culture, class, gender or age, has an intrinsic dignity and should be respected and served, not exploited.
Although reconciliation with mankind 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. Both are necessary expressions of our doctrines of God and mankind, our love for our neighbor and our obedience to Jesus Christ. The message of salvation also implies 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.
When people receive Christ they are born again into His kingdom and must seek not only to exhibit but also to spread His righteousness in the midst of an unrighteous world. The salvation we claim should be transforming us in the totality of our personal and social responsibilities. Faith without works is dead.
(Lausanne Covenant, paragraph 5)
Social concern consists of two types of ministries:
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Social service |
Social action |
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Relieving human need |
Removing the causes of human need |
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Philanthropic activity |
Political and economic activity |
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Seeking to minister to individuals and families |
Seeking to transform the structures of society |
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Works of mercy |
Quest for justice |
(Grand Rapids Report, pp. 43-44)