The Theological Commission of the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) recently prepared a statement on Evangelical Social Engagement, or the Philadelphia Statement. Here I post some quotes and short one line comments.
The Lordship of Christ provides the fundamental reason for Christian involvement in social, civic and political affairs. Consequently, both evangelism and social action are essential dimensions of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
> It is good for Christians to engage in social activities
Evangelical theology stresses the importance of a personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ and sees the transformation of individuals as an important part of the transformation of the world. However, the notion of a purely privatized faith in which the gospel only affects individual, personal or family life but has no wider implications for society must be rejected as inadequate.
> Evangelical Churches have been too individualist
Holding firmly to the virtues of faith, hope and love we affirm Christian involvement in the political processes of local communities, nations, and on the international level and encourage Christians to consider professions whereby they are able to serve in the political and social sphere.
> Professional carreers in social sphere and politics should be encouraged
There are different forms of government, contexts and local issues that impact the implementation of the reign of Jesus Christ and it is important for Christians of different nationalities and political convictions to be in discussion about these variations. However, there are important areas common to most societies where followers of Jesus Christ must pray and work for the kingdom, such as seeking human rights and religious liberty, working against corruption, violence and war, alleviating poverty, protecting the family and the sanctity of life, and caring for creation.
> Theological discussions are interesting, but action is necessary
We have come a long way from the traditions that say there is no place for works at all, and that Church is about spiritual things only! Do you think the Church (or your church) is doing enough to socially engage with this world?
social engagement,World Evangelical Alliance,theology,politics,social justice
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