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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
C. S. Lewis wisely observed, “If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next… Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in; aim at earth and you will get neither.”1
Author Brian Jones agrees, asserting that, “Christians lose apocalyptic urgency (to their lives) when they become pre-occupied with important kingdom related activities like feeding the poor and fighting for human rights. Over time they allow these activities to take precedence over helping people get to heaven. They let their passion and God-inspired holy rage for certain causes to reshape their understanding of God’s priorities and His plan for our world.”2 Jesus speaking to this issue when he says, “The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me.” Matthew 26:11 And yet, prior to this statement to his followers, he had advised a rich young man seeking eternal life through adherence to Judaic commands to, “…go, sell your possessions and give to the poor,…” Matthew 19:21
So which is it? Should we concentrate exclusively on leading people to Christ – and thus heaven – or minister to their more earthly needs? The answer being: Yes. And yes. (Incidentally, the holy rage Mr. Jones referenced above is the emotional outrage at the oppression, illness, inequality, abuse, etc. that it takes for people to get beyond sympathy for others and actually become involved in their lives; apocalyptic urgency being the sense of compulsion to witness concerning Christ’s sacrifice on the cross for them.) The problem being, we become self-satisfied with those efforts and the gratitude expressed in response to our caring for the more immediate needs of people and become complacent about tending to their spiritual needs. (Which often contribute to the difficulties they are experiencing.) The fullest solution being the redemption found only in Jesus Christ.
A critical question being: Why would we help someone find daily bread without assisting them in the discovery of the “bread of life”? (John 1:35) Another being: If the driving force behind Christianity is good deeds (however relevant they may be), why did its founder have to die?
Many organizations, inspired by Christian ideals if not carried out exclusively by Christians, work to alleviate want and abuse, striving to eradicate oppression and injustice; but few have been called upon to die as a pre-requisite for establishing their existence. (Although persecution is experienced and a number of these mission-minded servants have indeed lost their lives in the quest to better mankind’s lot.) Jesus, on the other hand, had to die to provide the substitutionary sacrifice that can save all mankind from its sin. (Matthew 26:39-42 & John 3:16)
Again, Mr. Jones contending that Christianity, “…begins with the end in mind, namely these things: This world is going to end, all humanity is racing toward final judgment, and God charged the followers of the risen Jesus with bringing the possibility of spiritual rebirth to the human race. While we are sent to carry out that mission, we also happen to love the poor, care for the downtrodden, and fight for the rights of the oppressed. We do that out of love. But followers of Jesus know that our ultimate mission is not to make this world a better place to live, as important as that is, our mission is to give every human being on earth the news that their relationship with God can be restored through Jesus’ death on the cross.”3 Paul reminding us that the message of the cross, while unacceptable to some, is still the power of God bestowing salvation on all who believe. (Romans 1:16 & 1 Corinthians 1:18) Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection finalizing the plan of salvation foretold by God and set in motion so many years before. (Romans 1:1-6)
The early church recognized this principle, prioritizing evangelism without ignoring social justice. (See Acts 6:2-4 & 11:29,30) The directive, “Love your neighbor…”, first uttered to the Israeli nation early in its existence (Leviticus 19:18), was expressed as concern for people’s souls while meeting their physical needs as well; thus setting the pattern for our mission/ministry throughout the New Testament era. Martin Luther asserting that, “Next to the preaching of the gospel, a true and faithful pastor will take care of the poor.”4 (See James 1:27 & 2:14-24)
Both Testaments of scripture express the expectation for us to deal justly with people, to be compassionate and responsive to the needs, “…of the least of these brothers of mine…” Matthew 25:40 And go so far as to warn, “If any man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered.” Proverbs 2:13 (See also Proverbs 31:8,9) Paul practicing this dual directive effectively throughout his ministry; Rom. 15:17-33,1 Corinthians 16:3 & 2 Corinthians 8 & 9 demonstrating his care for those in need of physical sustenance even as he trekked the countryside preaching the gospel.
And yet, even in the attempt to help where he could, he – nor the church – can address the needs of every poor person, but he could – and did – speak to everyone he could of the love of Christ and the possibility of salvation through him. Paul having learned, and teaching by example, how to be “…content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” Philippians 4:11,12 The ultimate example set by Christ, who “…gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” Titus 2:4 (See also Matthew 20:25-28)
1 Mere Christianity, Harper Collins Publishing
2 Hell Is Real (But I Hate To Admit It), Cook Distribution
3 ibid
4From, A Commentary On The Epistle To The Galatians, Kessinger Publishing
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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