Social Responsibility
Objectives of the Lesson
At the end of this Lesson, the participant will:
1. Recognise the work of the Holy Spirit through us as Children of God.
2. Be able to explain the importance of impacting our society as Christians.
3. Take a firm decision to impact the society through the Help of the Holy Spirit.
Introduction
Many Christians would never think to talk about politics, homosexuality, or animal rights with other believers. These topics feel taboo, and in the name of unity, we shy away from discussing any of these potentially heated topics. “If Christianity is true, then it bears on every aspect of life—and we must seek to examine all things temporal in light of the eternal. If we confine our faith to just ‘spiritual’ topics, we begin to think inwardly, talk only to ourselves, and make little impact on our world.”
FAITH MEETS REALITY
Christianity is still strong in many parts of the world; But so are divorce, abortion, promiscuity, corruption and crime. Why are Christians not having more of an effect on secular society? Christians have separated the “Christian” part of their lives from the everyday, secular part. How can Christians allow their faith to permeate the whole world? How can we develop Christian minds?
CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY
In his letter to the Galatians Christians, the apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:10). This instruction has sometimes been reduced to the proverb “Charity begins at home.” How do we balance our responsibilities toward the communities in which we live with our responsibility to nurture those within the community of faith? How do we help those in our neighbourhood while also following our mandate to bring the gospel to the ends of the earth?
THE VALUE OF HUMAN LIFE
It costs a lot of money to look after the sick, disabled, the socially challenged and the aged per year. Many would see these expenditures as a giant waste, because when you look at it financially, these groups of people cannot contribute significantly to the economy. Other areas such as medicines for AIDS victims especially in deprived areas, meals for the homeless, childcare for single mothers, new police cars for violent neighbourhoods need attention, but it makes a whole difference when it done with the love of Jesus Christ.
Main Message: If Christianity is true and the Holy Spirit led life is real, then it should affect every part of our lives including our social responsibility.
After reading the information and watching the video, go to the quiz for this topic and check your understanding and newly found knowledge
Now go to the Puzzle to have some brain excercise to make you grounded in this topic. when you are not sure about anything, come back to the text or rewatch the video as a reminder.
Exploration
Take a closer look at these verses about faith meeting reality: Genesis 1:26-27; Mark 12:28-30; Luke 2:40-52; Acts 17:24-28; Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 2:12-16; 2 Corinthians 4:18; 10:4-5
Take a closer look at these verses about caring for the community: Genesis 1:26-28; 12:1-3; Deuteronomy 28:1-14; Matthew 5:13-16; Galatians 6
Take a closer look at these verses about the value of human life: Psalm 8; Ecclesiastes 2:1-11; Matthew 10:28-31; Mark 14:3-9; Luke 10:38-42; Romans 8:31-32; Philippians 3:7-10