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In Child, Church, and Mission, Brewster highlights the challenges faced by children in at risk situations, especially those who are vulnerable due to family or social issues (Chapter 1). For example, one child I know lives in a home where the parents struggle with addiction. This affects the child emotionally and makes it hard for them to focus in school. Another situation involves children living in poverty, where they don’t have enough food or proper healthcare, which can harm their physical and mental development (Chapter 5).
To help these children, the church can create safe spaces where they can receive emotional support and guidance. Offering programs like after school tutoring or providing meals can also make a big difference. Churches can also work with families to connect them to resources, like addiction recovery or healthcare services, which can improve the situation for everyone involved. By taking these steps, we can follow Brewster’s call for the church to care for and disciple children who are vulnerable.
a. Scripture and the Sanctity of Human Life
The sanctity of every human life is evident throughout Scripture. Genesis 1 and 2 highlight that humanity is created in the image of God, a reflection of His nature, giving each person inherent dignity and worth. Jeremiah 1 reveals God’s intimate knowledge of us even before birth, as He declares to Jeremiah, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you” (Jeremiah 1:5). This underscores that life begins with God’s intentional design. Psalm 139 continues this theme, celebrating how we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14), with God being involved in every detail of our creation. Galatians 3:26-29 teaches that in Christ, every human life is equally valued, breaking down barriers of race, gender, and social status, emphasizing that all are one in Christ Jesus.
Christ’s coming restored the fullness of life to humanity. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus not only affirmed the value of every human life but also provided a way for us to be reconciled to God and restored to our intended purpose. In Christ, every life is given the opportunity to find true identity and worth.
b. The Sanctity of Life
The Sanctity of Life is the belief that every human life is inherently valuable, sacred, and deserving of protection. This belief is rooted in the understanding that humans are created in the image of God (Imago Dei), giving each person a unique and intrinsic worth that cannot be diminished by external factors such as age, disability, race, or social status. The concept affirms that life is a gift from God and should be treated with reverence and respect from conception to natural death.
c. Demonstrating the Value of Every Life
Ministries and communities can show the value of every human life by practicing inclusivity, providing support to the marginalized, and advocating for the dignity and rights of all people. This can be done by creating spaces where people of all backgrounds are welcomed and valued, offering support to those in need—such as the elderly, disabled, or economically disadvantaged—and standing against practices that devalue life, such as abortion or euthanasia. Ministries can also educate others on the biblical view of life, encouraging a culture of respect and care for every individual.
d. Personal Action
Personally, I can contribute to the sanctity of life by treating everyone I encounter with respect and dignity, recognizing their inherent worth as individuals made in the image of God. I can also volunteer with organizations that support life, whether through helping those in crisis pregnancies, caring for the elderly, or advocating for policies that protect the vulnerable. Additionally, I can educate myself and others on the issues surrounding the sanctity of life, using my voice to stand up for those who cannot speak for themselves. By living out these values in my daily interactions and decisions, I can help to promote a culture that honors and protects the sanctity of every human life.
Key Principles
1. Respect Authority and Pay Taxes:
– Scriptures: Jesus said we should respect authorities and pay taxes (Matthew 17:24-27; Matthew 22:15-22).
– Principle: Christians should follow the laws of the land and pay what’s required, while keeping their ultimate loyalty to God.2.Proper Attitude Toward Money:
-Scriptures: Jesus warned against loving money more than God (Matthew 6:24-27) and encouraged wise use of resources (Matthew 25:14-30).
-Principle: Money should be used responsibly and as a tool to serve God, not as an end in itself.3. Living by the Spirit:
-Principle: Decisions about money should be guided by the Holy Spirit, focusing on God’s priorities rather than selfish desires.
Common Misuses
1. Prosperity Gospel:
– Issue: Some preach that faith will automatically bring wealth, which can exploit people and lead to disappointment.
– Result: It can cause financial harm and disillusionment.2. Ignoring Civic Duties:
– Issue: Some Christians might refuse to follow laws or pay taxes, thinking they only need to follow God’s commands.
– Result: This can lead to legal problems and damage to their witness.3. Selfish Use of Wealth:
– Issue: Treating money as a personal blessing rather than a responsibility can lead to hoarding and ignoring those in need.
– Result: This goes against the call to use resources to help others and serve God.Summary
Christians should respect authorities, use money wisely, and let the Holy Spirit guide their financial decisions. Misusing these principles can lead to problems like financial exploitation, legal issues, and neglect of those in need.
