Call Us: 423 661-4734 | Email: requests@comeandreason.com      
Christian Beware the Trap of the Social Justice Movement!

Christian Beware the Trap of the Social Justice Movement!

Justice is doing that which is right; that’s why in the Bible, the same Greek word for “justice” is also translated “righteousness.” The just are the righteous ones – those who have right hearts and do what is right.

But what determines what is just, what is right? In any given activity or society, it is the law of that organization.

In boxing, it is just to punch someone in the face; in baseball, it is unjust to do so.

On the autobahn in Germany, it is right and just to drive over 100 mph; in the USA, it is wrong or unjust to do so.

The Bible is replete with calls for justice – justice to the oppressed, the poor, the needy, the homeless, the foreigner.

But to understand Bible justice, one needs to understand God’s law. God is Creator; He builds reality – space, time, energy, matter, life. His laws are the laws upon which life and health are built to operate. Deviate from them and injury, pain, suffering, and eventual death ensues.

Thus, God justly intervenes to save and heal. But how does He do what is right – which is to save and heal? By writing His law in our hearts and minds (Hebrews 8:10), meaning restoring the heart and mind of the sinner back to harmony with how life is built to operate. Another way to say this is: turning an enemy into a friend, taking out a heart of stone and putting in a tender heart, taking sinners and turning them into saints, taking exploiters and turning them into protectors, taking the selfish and turning them into the selfless. God’s justice is healing, fixing, and restoring.

Human beings cannot create reality, so we make up rules that we call “laws” and then we use power to enforce those rules by threats of punishment. When we hear calls for justice, it is never to turn an enemy into a friend, but to punish the perceived wrongdoer. It is to use the power of might to inflict punishment upon the transgressor. This is how all human governments work – if you speed, the state inflicts a fine; if you commit grand larceny, the state will imprison you; if you commit murder, the state may execute you. Human justice is not about turning enemies into friends, but about killing our enemies – or at least making them suffer the agreed upon punishment.

God’s government is not like human governments. Jesus said His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36). God said His ways are not like ours; they are as high above ours as heaven is above earth (Isaiah 55:9). Biblical justice is never about punishing the oppressor, but delivering the oppressed and turning enemies to friends.

  • Defend the poor and fatherless; do justice to the afflicted and needy (Psalm 82:3).
  • Wash yourselves clean. Stop all this evil that I see you doing. Yes, stop doing evil and learn to do right. See that justice is done – help those who are oppressed, give orphans their rights, and defend widows (Isaiah 1:16, 17 GNT).
  • This is what the Lord says to the dynasty of David: “Give justice each morning to the people you judge! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors” (Jeremiah 21:12 NLT).

The Bible is filled with calls to do justice, to do what is right to those who are disadvantaged. But what method would God have us utilize to do justice to those treated unjustly? It is always by the application of truth, love, and freedom in interpersonal relationships; people helping people, one person connecting to and assisting another. We are to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 19:19).

God has a bigger goal for us than merely the immediate relief of suffering (though He doesn’t want us to suffer) – rather, God has an eternal goal. He wants to heal and save all His human children from sin so they can live forever with Him. In order to do this, they must come back to a knowledge of Him.

And how do people come to a knowledge of God? From people who know God sharing Him with others. When we love in action – feed, clothe, shelter, adopt, visit, heal – we connect with people and share the love of God! The individual being helped experiences, from another human being, that they are valued, loved, and have worth. Putting love into action reaches the heart; overcomes shame, guilt, fear, insecurity; and opens the heart of those to whom you minister to hear about our God of love.

Further, when we meet people and care enough about them to invest in their lives, we are changed by the process. Our prejudices are erased, our biases expunged, our bigotry eliminated, our fear replaced with love, we grow to become more like Jesus. This is also part of God’s plan to heal His human children.

The Social Justice Trap

But what happens when we remove the loving Christian, the ministering person, the compassionate church community, and instead insert a bureaucracy, a faceless agency, a nameless automated answering system? Does God’s plan – His system of justice in which hearts are set right, in which fear, selfishness, and hate are replaced with love and trust – get derailed?

God never instructed for human agencies to take from people with unwilling hearts and give to those in need. Why? Because such methods are the methods of coercion – the methods of the world, the beastly method. And what does coercion do? It destroys trust, incites rebellion, causes division, and obstructs healing love.

Regarding state taxes, Jesus said, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s” (Matthew 22:21 NIV84). Jesus did not argue against paying taxes, and neither am I. What Jesus did is make a clear distinction between God and the state, and so am I. Our Christian duty and our civic duty are not the same. We cannot fulfill our duty to God by inserting the state into the process. Any time we replace the loving Christian, the compassionate church, with state agencies, we corrupt God’s healing plan. Why? Because human governments always work on imposed laws; they ultimately always coerce, and such methods are a violation of God’s design for life. It would be like trying to heal a wound by using poison – it only gets worse.

Consider these scenarios:

  1. What happens when a person receives food, clothing, shelter, or medical attention from people who care about them, who get to know them, and who are interested in their wellbeing as a human – people who want to see them grow and develop and return to independence and autonomy?
  1. What happens when we remove the caring person and substitute a state agency that sends a monthly check to the bank account of the one in need; the money, not obtained from donations of the loving, but from taking from those who are not interested in helping?

Which system is most likely to increase brotherly love? Which system is most likely to reduce conflict? Which system is most likely to heal societal wounds? Which system is most likely to help the individual come to know God and experience eternal life?

  1. What happens when an orphan is put in a state-run institution, or in foster care in which the foster-parents are given money from the state?
  1. What happens when an orphan is adopted and becomes part of a family who loves them and who sacrifices their own resources to provide for them?

Which system is most likely to increase brotherly love? Which system is most likely to reduce conflict? Which system is most likely to heal societal wounds? Which system is most likely to help the individual come to know God and experience eternal life?

When Ruth and Naomi were without food, how did God’s system provide for their food? They could get free food, but how? They had to glean for it. Is there a difference between gleaning, working in the field to gather your own food, and having it given to you with no effort? In Ruth’s case, she met the landowner, who got to know her and married her – and she became a mother and ancestor of Christ. What difference does it make on the heart, mind, and character of the person in need when they participate in their own recovery?

God’s system connects people with people, administering social justice through individuals who have it in their hearts to love their neighbors, to show hospitality, to give opportunity, to rescue, to feed, to clothe. Such a system, built on love for each other, not only ministers to the immediate needs of the oppressed, but it also uplifts all parties and builds bonds of love, affection, and brotherhood. Satan’s motives of fear, hate, and distrust are eliminated from hearts and minds as God’s methods are put into practice.

But when we remove the loving individual, the kind Christian, the compassionate church, and instead insert the faceless, heartless state, we replace the methods of God with the methods of the state, and rather than bringing unity, love, and healing, we incite social divisions, increase class warfare, and fracture society.

Finally, and most important, God’s end goal is not for us to merely live better in this world of sin: “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matthew 16:26 NIV84). No – loving our neighbors, doing person-to-person social justice, is the means through which God combats sin and spreads His remedy that heals hearts and minds and brings people to eternal salvation. That is why the Christian must not surrender social justice to the state.

One of the founders of the Adventist church understood clearly that we cannot win others to God’s cause by using the methods of this world. She wrote the following in the book The Desire of Ages, and it would be well for us all to remember:

The government under which Jesus lived was corrupt and oppressive; on every hand were crying abuses – extortion, intolerance, and grinding cruelty. Yet the Savior attempted no civil reforms. He attacked no national abuses, nor condemned the national enemies. He did not interfere with the authority or administration of those in power. He who was our example kept aloof from earthly governments. Not because He was indifferent to the woes of men, but because the remedy did not lie in merely human and external measures. To be efficient, the cure must reach men individually, and must regenerate the heart (p. 509).

 

Satan’s goal is to obstruct God’s healing plan – to incite fear, selfishness, hate – to get people to fight each other, to divide and conquer us. One of the devil’s most sinister strategies is to advance his evil cause under the guise of righteousness. Nothing is more tailored to achieve further division in society and the advancement of hate, bitterness, resentment, hostility, and obstruct God’s love than the current social justice movement, which seeks to take hold of the reigns of government in order to force its practices upon society.

The church must rise to a higher standard than the state; the Christian must adhere to a nobler method than governments; the lover of Christ must practice a purer justice than the political social justice warrior. We must practice the justice of God’s kingdom of love, in which we as individuals love every human being as our very selves – seeking to uplift them to the highest levels of Godlike development possible. Only when we love others with Godlike love will healing take place.

So let the Christian beware: The current social justice movement in America is a trap that attempts to supplant the mission of the church with the coercion of the state. But if the church succumbs to the deception and seeks to advance social justice through the power of the state, neither the church nor the state will be benefited. We will only devolve into more conflict.

So do justice – but do it God’s way!


Email me the blog whenever a new one is published.

Donate online, securely via PayPal using your credit or debit card (no PayPal account needed, unless you want to set up a monthly, recurring payment).


cancel recurring payment

 

Want to use zelle instead?
See how on our
Support and Donations page.

Upcoming Events

calendar

Testimonial Post Slider

Testimony 52

Your unique way in spreading the truth is what we all need today. Most of us don’t recognize the contamination coming from all the lies and selfishness in the world. Because of our fear of death, we forgot how to live. Lies left and right. I was losing hope and faith, because of so many ideas that are always contradicting each other – so many questions answered by other, more complicated, questions – until I found your channel on YouTube.

You did not just give me answers, you also taught me how to answer new questions that arise in my mind. Now I see things differently. I see God’s mercy, grace, and Love everywhere, in spite of all the chaos that we all have done as humans. I don’t fear death anymore. Accepting the Truth and Love about God is truly a genuine Freedom from all the confusions, sufferings, selfishness, pain, and death.

I just wanted to say, thank you, sooooo much for revealing the real Remedy for our infected life. I have a new hope and now see the world in a different perspective!

Wheinny P., University Place, WA, USA

 

Testimony 43

Two years ago I stumbled upon your book, “Could It Be This Simple,” and then found “The God-Shaped Brain” videos on YouTube, your bible study class, and the ‘Come And Reason’ mobile app. I shared your book with a friend and after nine months of showing love, patience, and kindness this person has been changed by the love of God, too. The same love that healed me, I now express to other women in tangible ways, such as to a Baptist woman with high anxiety and childhood trauma. She was extremely happy and relieved when I shared about the so-called “judgment of God” and burning in hell. She had no desire to serve a God that was so harsh. I have repeated the phrase dozens of times to her. “What we believe has power over us, but we have power over what we believe…”

This message that you are sharing has changed my life. I will continue to serve other women and bring this message of God’s healing love to their lives by sharing your books, YouTube videos, and The Remedy Bible app. Keep up the good work. Don’t be discouraged. God is doing a mighty work in and through this ministry!

Jill L., Midwest, USA

 

Testimony 66

I am incredibly grateful for the transformative impact you’ve had on my life, and words cannot fully express my appreciation. Over the years, I have been an avid listener and follower of C&R and extend my heartfelt thanks for creating the C&R mobile app. It has allowed me to immerse myself in your lessons repeatedly, enabling me to grasp the profound significance about the Character of God, Design Law, the protocols for life, the reasons behind the current chaos, and Christ’s mission to restore everything. They have deeply touched me. Having studied with various churches, I came away with the perception that God is no different from the deities of ancient Greek or Roman mythology—demanding sacrifices and taking pleasure in bloodshed. Thanks to your transformative teachings, I have experienced a profound awakening to the true nature of God and the immense power of His love. It is truly a remarkable and liberating sensation to finally grasp the truth and embrace the empowering nature of God’s laws. My self-perception has become brighter and more infused with love. My journey of growth continues on a daily basis.

Chris P., Lake Mary, FL, USA

 

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 20

I just wanted to personally thank you for your teachings and insight into scripture. I came across your website via my cousin who suggested I look into “Healing the Mind” information. My youngest daughter has been struggling over the last couple of years and it all came to a head this spring. When I started listening to the “Healing the Mind” lectures my own life began to be transformed. I began sharing with all my daughters the concepts you laid out so clearly. I ordered your book and soaked it up. I just want to say “Thank You!” My walk with the Lord has been refreshed and renewed. Your obedience to the Lord is a blessing to so many.

R. K., Anderson, SC, USA

 

Testimony 35

I am so pleased with the response your message is receiving at my church from the middle-aged to the young adults. I have given out 100 copies of the first two seminars and there are more request every week. One of my [class members] came to me after viewing the series, grateful and impressed with how easy the message was retained. He had been a Seventh-day Adventist in fear all his life, and felt like the scales were removed from his eyes after viewing the seminars. I am so impressed by the change I see in members who have received this message, we are in one accord. However, I am sadden by the negative response of the older people. I am verbally attacked anytime I talk about imposed laws, but I believe my mission is to enlightened everyone I can. I watch your Bible Study Class on YouTube every Friday night and I feel like I am apart of the class. All of you are in one accord and I am so blessed to have found you. I pray that all of you continue to spread this message and I am committed to doing my part.

Clara S., Westfield, MA, USA

 

Testimony 45

I have been confused for years about what [christianity] calls [its] most disgusting teaching. It has never made much sense to me and for that reason has been evermore empty. I have listened to your class off and on and have struggled determining what is truth, because of the resistance design law encounters in the church. So, I thank God for your ministry. What you teach makes sense. It’s logical and backed up by the power of love. I have never seen that in Christ until now. I am astounded by the insight that is found when we look at God’s ministry through design law. All strength to this message, as I believe it to be the power of God.

Brendon S.

 

Testimony 51

I Love This Ministry!!!!!!! I see first hand how this message is desperately needed, how erroneous beliefs about God and His Character negatively affect humanity at every level. I thank God for your ministry, as I was searching on my own and was discovering some of your same beliefs and was blown away when I found your ministry. I know you hear it all the time, but it is truly life changing. May God continue to reveal His Will to you and Bless you!

Eric S., Sanford, FL, USA

 

Testimony 3

My husband is a pastor and I listen to your lesson almost every week. Thank you for helping me in my study life and to help me love the “real” God more.

C. F., NC, USA

 

Testimony 38

Since November 2015, when I started studying Gods word from this God Is Love point of view, my life has been transformed. My troubled marriage of 15 years has been healed and my husband and I are truly happy for the first time in 15 years. Now When I read the word of God I understand it so much better and I can’t help but see Gods love radiating through the pages to humanity. Gods word is living and active and I am blessed beyond measure to be having this amazing experience. God has given me a beautiful understanding of Jn 3:16 that amazes me more and more each day. Thank you again for your ministry.

Helen D., London, England

 

Testimony 31

It was very touching to hear the testimony of your class share how viewing God’s true character has changed their lives. My feelings are the same – there is so much freedom in knowing that God LOVES me – regardless of my… just, REGARDLESS! I’m still blown away by the true gospel, the fact that God is not ready to strike us when we fail. He is not arbitrary. He simply loves us and warns of the natural consequences because He can’t stand to see us suffer. I AM IN LOVE WITH THIS GOD!!!

Ceil V.,  UT, USA

 

Testimony 72

I am blown away by the truth that you present. God’s Design Law makes so much sense! You have validated my impression that, if God is love, He would not kill those who don’t want to know him. If God gives us choice, then how can He destroy us if our choice is not to follow him. Thank you for opening my eyes and heart to the pure love of God seen through Jesus. The love I now have for Jesus is deeper and free from condemnation. My heart has been opened to love others as Jesus loves me. May God continue to bless your God-given insight into His word and your ministry. The truth has set me free!

H. Miller, Centereach, NY

Testimony 24

I wanted to thank you very much for presenting your understanding of God. I’ve always been troubled by this question: Why did Jesus have to die? Since my conversion I understood that The Father & Jesus are one, I did not have issues with that. But was there not any other way to save us than for Jesus to die? I guess I actually had a question about God – if He is so wise, how come He did not find another way? I did not see the real ‘beauty’  in the cross. Only when you explained the picture in the medical context, Jesus providing medicine for my selfishness, have I started to finally ‘see the light’. Thank you so much. Your seminar, “Healing the Mind,” are absolutely marvelous & have shared them with my family and many other people, including colleagues at work. Thanks, thanks, thanks. May God bless you abundantly in your ministry.

M. W., Australia

 

Testimony 27

Your teachings about our heavenly Father have changed my life. Thank you sooooooo very very much! I know He’s doing some serious healing in my heart and life and I look forward to each new day to learn something new about Him and to just hear you speak about Him. Thank you, forever.

Nancy S.

 

Testimony 34

I was introduced to Come and Reason Ministries by accident, via a passing comment made in a bible study class we were visiting. I checked this website out and my life was changed. The understanding of the truth of God’s character, and how we apply it, is so right. The tricky part is consistently applying which “lens” to look through. As I began to understand, I started sharing the basics of this understanding with a discussion group I was leading and, suddenly, a lot of things started to make sense that never used to. At the same time, I enjoyed an amazing opportunity. I was able to conduct a full bible study at WORK! What an amazing experience! It is such a joy to share the truth about God and to share how it all fits in the war between God and Satan. So many people benefit when we have a correct understanding about how God works and who He really is! Thank you for this transformational understanding. Keep up the good work! God Bless you!

Tony P., CA, USA