‘Speaking truth to power’: The Christian Church's role in addressing contemporary issues
Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (Nigeria) once said in a sermon, "I am also worried about rising crude oil theft in the country.
News has it that, as of now, more than 80 percent of oil produced in the country is stolen.
It is in the news,, and nobody has denied it. That leads me to several questions. Who is stealing the oil? Where is the money going? What do they want to do with the money? Who are the foreign nations buying this stolen oil? How many of these nations of the world are your friends?
It is also in the news that more than 90 percent of Nigeria's income is used to pay interest on money borrowed, and we are still borrowing more. This means we are moving steadily into bankruptcy.
I am more concerned about all these for now and not who becomes what at the next general elections."
In an ever-changing world, the role of the Christian Church has evolved from providing spiritual guidance alone to engaging actively in addressing contemporary issues.
Throughout history, the Church has been speaking truth to power to bring about positive change, championing justice, compassion, and equality.
What is ‘speaking truth to power’
Speaking Truth to Power | Erika Cheung | TEDxBerkeley
"Speaking truth to power" embodies the courageous act of standing up for justice and confronting authority figures with the reality of their actions.
The phrase, coined by 18th-century Quakers or more recently attributed to civil rights leader Bayard Rustin, signifies a demand for change and the exposure of injustices under their watch.
Its concept traces back to historical and religious contexts. In the Judeo-Christian tradition, it can be traced to King David's affair with Bathsheba.
Despite his numerous wives and concubines, David's desire for Bathsheba led to adultery and arranging her husband Uriah's death. Nathan the prophet exemplified "speaking truth to power" when he rebuked David for his transgressions.
The practice of addressing authority to rectify wrongdoing became a lasting idiom, reinforcing the significance of holding power accountable.
As Christian individuals
Christianity compels compassionate action, from aiding needy people to educating and advocating for societal good.
Examples include skilled Christian plumbers reflecting divine perfection and hopeful teachers fostering knowledge despite limitations.
Truckers distribute blessings, while engagement with the government through voting and organizations like Bread for the World showcases commitment.
Law-abiding citizenship, blending responsibility, compassion, and civic involvement, weaves faith into bettering social harmony.
As an institutional church
The institutional church's primary focus isn't social justice promotion but rather highlighting divine justice and the righteousness of God in Jesus Christ.
Its core mission involves sharing the message of eternal life and nurturing the Christian faith through gospel preaching and discipline.
While the church refrains from detailed policy advocacy, it should outline societal goals like a violence-free society.
Specific policy recommendations are beyond its scope, except in cases of intrinsic immorality. Church interventions, like opposing abortion for poverty reduction, is an example
The crucial role of the Christian Church
A call to social responsibility
The teachings of Jesus Christ have long emphasized compassion, justice, and the well-being of all individuals. This foundation compels the Church to take an active role in addressing contemporary challenges.
Today, issues such as poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice continue to afflict communities worldwide.
The church's duty to speak truth to power becomes more critical than ever.
Addressing social injustice
Throughout history, the Church has been at the forefront of social justice movements, advocating for the rights of the oppressed and marginalized.
Inspired by biblical principles of equality and human dignity, many churches have taken stands against discrimination, racism, and other forms of injustice.
By speaking out against systemic inequities and standing alongside the marginalized, the Church can be a beacon of hope and an agent of change.
Promoting compassion and charity
Central to Christianity is the message of love and compassion for one's neighbors.
The church often engages in charitable activities, assisting those in need, irrespective of their background.
Today, natural disasters, economic hardships, and health crises impact millions.
The church’s role in providing material and emotional support is indispensable.
Environmental stewardship
The issue of environmental sustainability has gained prominence in recent years.
Many Christian denominations are recognizing the biblical mandate to steward the Earth responsibly.
By advocating for ecological conservation and sustainable practices, the church can inspire us to protect the planet for future generations.
The power of moral influence
The Christian Church's influence extends beyond its walls. It can inspire change by appealing to shared values and morality.
By speaking truth to power, the Church can amplify the voices of the marginalized and hold leaders accountable for their actions. This moral authority is a force that can shape policies, shift societal norms, and ultimately create a more just and compassionate world.
Challenges faced by the church in modern times
A church facade and people on a stairway. (Photo by Natasa Dav from Pexels)
1. Secularization. In many parts of the world, there has been a trend of decreasing religiosity and increasing secular attitudes. This situation challenges the Church's role and influence in society.
2. Changing moral and ethical norms. Shifts in societal attitudes towards gender roles, sexuality, and marriage have created tensions between traditional Church teachings and evolving cultural norms.
3. Sexual abuse scandals. The Church has faced significant backlash due to revelations of sexual abuse and misconduct within its ranks. Addressing these scandals while rebuilding trust has been a substantial challenge.
4. Declining attendance and engagement. Many churches are experiencing declining attendance and participation, especially among younger generations. Finding ways to engage and retain younger members has been a struggle.
5. Interfaith relations and religious pluralism. The Church must navigate its relationship with other religious traditions. It must also adapt to increasingly diverse and pluralistic societies.
6. Technology and communication. While technology offers opportunities for outreach and engagement, it also poses challenges. These aspects must maintain meaningful connections and address the potential negative impacts of online interactions.
7. Globalization. The Church operates globally, which presents challenges in adapting its message and practices to different cultural contexts.
8. Aging clergy and leadership. Many religious leaders are getting older, and there's a need to train and empower a new generation of clergy to take on leadership roles.
9. Financial pressures. Maintaining churches, funding various programs, and supporting charitable efforts can be challenging.
10. Gender equality and leadership roles. Some branches of the Church are facing pressure to address issues of gender equality, especially the role of women in leadership positions.
Church’s challenges on ‘speaking truth to power’
Two perils arise when the church engages solely with immoral social policies.
The first risk is its failure to address all such policies, leading to silence when it's necessary to speak out. For example, some South African churches neglected to condemn apartheid.
The second graver danger is the church siding with the wrong moral stance, complicating injustice. This situation occurred when particular U.S. churches opposed civil rights for African Americans.
Armed with God's Word, the church holds a unique position to distinguish moral permissibility from impermissibility.
Yet, in the Western world, many political matters involve morally acceptable policy choices, requiring worldly wisdom that Christians lack as a distinct claim.
It drains resources and creates an alliance between the institution and specific political agendas. This notion potentially repels congregants with differing views.
Associating Christ's cause with non-obligatory social policies undermines the church's fundamental purpose. Hence, utilizing the church as a mouthpiece for personal political beliefs should be resisted.
Christians: Salt and light of the Earth
People giving food donations. (Photo by Lagos Food Bank Initiative from Pexels)
"You are the salt of the Earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden." - Matthew 5:13-14
In a world of multifaceted challenges, the Christian Church's role in addressing contemporary issues is both a responsibility and an opportunity. Drawing from its rich moral foundation, the Church can guide its members and society toward positive change.
By speaking truth to power, the Church can play a vital role in shaping a more equitable and harmonious world. We realize this by advocating for justice, promoting compassion, and engaging in meaningful dialogue,
The Church offers aid to individuals regardless of their origins during tough times and collaborates with other faiths for community unity.
Religious leaders wield influence and can contest unfair regulations, safeguard the underprivileged, and motivate their congregations to champion fairness. Their guidance fosters church-driven justice initiatives.
As Jesus said, we are called to be a light in this dark and troubled world. We also ought to show His love, compassion, and righteousness to everyone.
