Within every society in history, there has been a matter of distinction. Distinctions are based on race, creed, gender, religion, etc. The question has never been, “Will there be distinction and differences?” but the question will be, “Will we accept them and use them as our strengths?” Unfortunately, our differences throughout generations have often led to the diminishing of human dignity, equality, and justice. Social Justice is a subject that has consumed our culture, but what does the Bible say about equality and social justice? How should Christians navigate the current movements throughout culture?
It is important for Christians to realize that any and every distinction was reduced to insignificance at the cross on Calvary. Because of Jesus, the main distinction of true value is the distinction between being saved, redeemed, and set free by the blood of Christ or not. What is of true eternal significance is whether or not a person is in right standing with Jesus. The Christians' priority is the soul of the person and their spiritual destination. Often times society and culture tend to elevate social issues above spiritual ones. The apostle Paul reminds us that to unbelievers “the message of the cross is foolishness but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” It is the responsibility of the Christian to prioritize the message of Jesus. Social justice must, first of all, be submitted to spiritual justice.
As for the temporal conditions of this world, it is important that Christians represent their humble, servant leader. Jesus cared deeply about people enough to care for their eternity and their present. He forgave sins but did not leave them in their dysfunction. He was humble enough to engage with the outcasts of society. He was selfless enough to serve multitudes of people. He was wise enough to share his wisdom with others so that they could learn. Jesus was the epitome of justice, and in Him, we see how to love well. His love was not predicated on distinction… nor should ours be.
In an ever-shifting culture, there are many causes to adopt and many campaigns to embrace. There is one cause and campaign that is worth fully giving your life to, and that is the cause of Christ. His cause supersedes every distinction and every issue. In Him, true justice is served.