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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
A noted politician went on record sharing his views on the moral condition of his country, particularly citing the need for religious zeal among true believers in Christ. In addressing those he considered genuine Christians he said, “You are the most important members of our community. (And I doubt this claim would be disputed by any experienced politician.) Today, as faith falls out of fashion, this is more true than ever before, both in our nation and in all of Europe. So I ask you now to seriously weigh the important role that you have; consider all the various responsibilities that enforce this rule.”
“ If we read the most intelligent accounts of foreign countries, we are convinced that faith and the standard of morals are declining everywhere, abroad even more rapidly than in our own country. But the fact that conditions may be worse in other countries is no reason for us to be complacent here in our nation. The progress of non-belief and the decay of morals at home are serious enough to alarm us all. They forebode the worst consequences unless we find some remedy to the growing evil.”
“We can depend only on you who are true Christians to perform this important service. Faith’s cause requires zeal, and only you can feel it. The people who try to work change in our country will be accused of being strange and inappropriate; only you will dare to encounter this criticism. The effort will require unity and perseverance; we can hope to find these qualities only in you who have true faith in Christ.”
“I call on all of you who are true Christians, then, to work together to prove the worth of your profession, putting to silence the empty ridicule of ignorant objectors. Boldly stand up for the cause of Christ in an age when so many who bear the name of Christ are ashamed of him. On your shoulders rests your country’s fate; it is up to you to suspend its fall. In the end, however, we can never be certain of the political outcome of our actions – but never-the-less, without a doubt, restoring the influence of faith and raising the moral standard will have sure and radical benefits for us all.”
He concluded by asserting that, “I don’t want to be an example of that same reluctance to acknowledge my faith that I have criticized in others – so let me boldly say that I firmly believe our country’s problems are all caused, either directly or indirectly, by the decline of faith and morality in our nation. The only solid hope for our country’s well-being does not depend as much on our fleets and armies, nor on the wisdom of our rulers, nor the spirit of our people, as it does on faith and love for the gospel of Christ. I humbly trust that the intercession of real Christians is still so great that God may look upon us with favor for their sake.”
“ Europe today is full of a false philosophy that is preferred to the light of revelation. A lack of faith is everywhere, lifting its head without any shame as it enters in broad daylight every human activity. The practical consequences are just what we might expect; selfishness and sin prevail without restraint. But here in our country, let us make a sanctuary, a land of faith and spirituality, where the blessings of Christianity may still be enjoyed; where the name of the redeemer will still be honored; where humanity can see what faith in Jesus really means and what are its blessed effects; and where, if the mercy of God allows it, faith and comfort can spread out of our boundaries, into the surrounding countries, and finally to the world at large.”1
This bold statement of faith and compelling challenge to authenticity came from a life-long politician who never-the-less worked openly for the advancement of Christianity and radical moral change throughout his country. As a consequence of his determination and willingness to suffer momentary loss in the hope of securing the benefits of a far greater goal; he did indeed inspire the hearts, minds and spirits not only of his own countrymen, but those across Europe and the rest of the world – becoming a catalyst for radical social and religious change. No doubt the target of criticism for allowing his personal faith to so convincingly influence his public life, he still refused to compromise what he believed to be his calling in Christ; a life dedicated completely to God’s will in all areas of life. He considered the world of politics a mission field; an opportunity to impact the lives of people from all walks of life – successfully meeting the needs of the young and old, the rich and poor, the unbeliever as well as the believer.
William Wilberforce (1759-1833) was a realist as well as a visionary who dedicated his life, especially after his conversion (in 1784) to “real” Christianity as opposed to his mere observance of ritual beforehand, to causes that were controversial and desperately needing focus and a champion. Although a highly regarded author and public speaker, he is probably most remembered as the leading voice in England’s long struggle to abolish the slave trade within its borders. Ill health forced his retirement in 1825, the Emancipation Bill abolishing slavery altogether becoming law one month after his death in 1833. His dogged determination to see what many felt was nothing more than a personal choice, re-enforced with first-hand evidence and indisputable facts verifying the cruelty of the slave trade, inspired efforts by like-minded men and women across Europe and America to begin bringing about the end of their own brand of this “peculiar institution.”
The significance of his exemplary life should be clear to all today – a purposeful understanding of the issues of his day coupled with a firm grounding in the principles of his faith; dedication to serving his Lord by challenging, equipping and leading his fellowmen in service to those less fortunate in society; a willingness to be opposed and even defeated – without losing heart, hope and energy for the continuance of the struggle. The battle is basically the same today as then; no temptation, trouble or opportunity seizing our attention but what is common to all men throughout time. ( 1 Corinthians 10:13) The technologies of the world change around us, but the soul and spirit of man remains constant; we need, seek, desire and lust after essentially the same things. ( James 1:13-15 & 1 John 2:15-17) We struggle, stumble and sin – as does all humankind ( Romans 3:10 & 3:23), never achieving righteousness but by Christ ( Romans 3:21,22), our mission of seeing the world introduced to the Savior never fully realized until his return. ( Philippians 3:13-14)
And yet we can live victoriously in the midst of life’s obstacles as we learn to view them as opportunities for success through service. ( Luke 1:37, Luke 18:27) The driving force behind Mr. Wilberforce’s ability to excel summed up in his private faith being publicly expressed throughout his life in word and deed.
1From the final chapter of Mr. Wilberforce’s book, The Practical View of The Prevailing System of Preferred Christianity in The Higher and Middle Classes of This Century With Real Christianity, usually simply referred to as Real Christianity.
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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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