Toronto, Canada Jeffrey S. Ram, Editor March 23, 2025
Throughout history, Christianity has been a force for change, influencing societies and shaping moral values. However, in modern times, there is growing concern that churches are becoming disconnected from the pressing socio-economic issues that cause great suffering worldwide. This disconnection raises the question: should churches return to progressive primitive Christianity or risk becoming irrelevant? Jesus Christ emphasized compassion, service, and justice. Therefore, churches' mission should address the urgent needs of humanity, including poverty, inequality, and suffering. Failing to do so reduces their relevance and credibility and deprives the world of the hope and practical solutions that churches can provide.
THE TEACHINGS AND EXAMPLES OF JESUS CHRIST
Progressive primitive Christianity, exemplified by Jesus and His followers, focused on serving humanity. Jesus preached love, healed the sick, and addressed injustices. The feeding of the five thousand (BIBLE, Matthew 14:13-21) illustrates His concern for spiritual and physical needs. At the same time, the parable of the Good Samaritan (BIBLE, Luke 10:25-37) underscores the importance of practical love through action. The Epistle of James reinforces this by stating that faith without good works is insufficient (BIBLE, James 2:15-16). If churches neglect this principle, they risk losing their moral authority and relevance.
THE SOCIAL ROLE OF CHURCHES IN HISTORY
Historically, churches have played a progressive role. Christian missionaries and organizations have established educational institutions, hospitals, and charities to uplift the downtrodden. Many of the world’s first universities and hospitals were founded by Christian institutions dedicated to the well-being of society. The church has also initiated significant movements against injustice.
For instance, churches were at the forefront of the abolitionist movement against slavery. Christian leaders such as William Wilberforce in Britain and Frederick Douglass in America fought to end this inhumane practice. During the Civil Rights Movement, religious figures like Martin Luther King Jr. drew inspiration from their faith to demand justice and equality. Churches also played a role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa, with figures like Desmond Tutu using their platforms to speak against systemic oppression.
Churches are at their best when actively participating in social transformation.
ADDRESSING URGENT SOCIO-ECONOMIC ISSUES
Today's world faces socio-economic injustices like poverty, hunger, disease, corruption, and inequality. The church's mission should extend beyond spiritual comfort to actively address these issues. Millions live in extreme poverty, and churches must advocate for poverty eradication and economic equality.
Many developing countries have inadequate healthcare; churches should revive their role in providing healthcare through hospitals and clinics. Education is crucial, so churches should continue building schools, offering scholarships, and lobbying governments to ensure accessible healthcare and education.
Additionally, the church must challenge corruption and advocate for justice, equality and human rights while supporting environmental policies that protect disadvantaged communities affected by climate change.
MOVING BEYOND “PIE IN THE SKY AFTER YOU DIE”
The phrase “pie in the sky after you die” criticizes religious teachings that prioritize the afterlife while neglecting current suffering. While eternal life is central to Christianity, it should never excuse inaction on worldly issues. The Gospel needs to connect with people’s everyday struggles.
Jesus emphasized that true faith demands action, not just words. In BIBLE, Matthew 25:31-46, He illustrates the final judgment based on how we treat the hungry, thirsty, sick, and imprisoned. This is a clear call to serve others. If churches ignore the suffering around them, they fail in their mission and the core of their faith. Let us strive to bring hope to those in need.
THE RISK OF IRRELEVANCE
Many young people today feel disillusioned with organized religion because they perceive a disconnect between faith and action. They seek genuineness and meaningful engagement with social issues. If churches do not return to the progressive principles of early Christianity—service, justice, and love—they risk becoming irrelevant in today's world.
THE PLEA FOR CHURCHES TO RETURN TO PROGRESSIVE PRIMITIVE CHRISTIANITY TO REMAIN A POWERFUL FORCE FOR GOOD
The call for churches to return to progressive primitive Christianity is a plea for relevance and impact. Christianity, at its core, is about love in action. The church must feed the hungry, heal the sick, educate the ignorant, and fight against injustice. It must not be content with offering only promises of heaven while ignoring the struggles on earth.
By reclaiming its original mission of service and advocacy, the church can remain a powerful force for good and continue to bring light to a dark world. Its advocacy can empower the oppressed and bring about significant change. If it fails to do so, it risks becoming irrelevant in everyday life.
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