Journal: Journal of Ministry and Theology
Volume: JMAT 24:1 (Spring 2020)
Article: Integral Mission: Is Social Action Part Of The Gospel?
Author: Paul Barreca

JMAT 24:1 (Spring 2020) p. 61

Integral Mission: Is Social Action Part Of The Gospel?

Paul Barreca

Abstract: This paper evaluates the origin of Integral Mission and argues that the gospel is being redefined to require socio-economic engagement, something beyond its biblical definition. A review of Acts and the epistles of the New Testament demonstrates that although socio-economic injustices were widespread in first-century Rome, the Apostolic church did not establish programs to address social needs as a method for evangelism. Although societal changes may have been brought about by people whose lives were transformed by the gospel, societal change was not the reason that Christians shared the gospel. This paper seeks to elevate the biblical gospel because of its inherent power to change lives, while keeping it separate from human programs and social action, which, although important, are different endeavors.

Key Words: Integral Mission, gospel, social justice, compassion, evangelism

*****

Introduction

Integral Mission is producing missionaries and mission movements that incorporate socio-economic engagement as an essential component of the gospel. This trend has become predominant in many churches, Christian universities, and missionary agencies. Hopefully no one, including this author,

JMAT 24:1 (Spring 2020) p. 62

would argue against compassion as the duty of every Christian. Christians can and should practice biblical justice and respond with Christ-like compassion to the needs around them. The concern is there is a shift today toward socio-political engagement that appears to be driven more by cultural adaptation than theological alignment. This paper argues for a reflective pause to evaluate the origin of Integral Mission and to take a closer look at the biblical passages used to promote socio-political engagement as central to the presentation of the gospel. It is hoped that this evaluation will strengthen the evangelistic commitment of both the author and reader.

Called To Compassion

Jesus exemplified compassion. Although Christians may differ regarding the integration of social engagement into the gospel, there should be no debate concerning the compassion that Jesus demonstrated toward the poor and needy, nor the expectation that Christians today should act with compassion toward those in need.

English New Testaments have translated “compassion” from the Greek root word σπλαγχνον, which is used frequently in the Gospels to describe Christ’s attitude toward various individuals and groups of people. He showed compassion on the multitudes needing a shepherd (