by Pastor Patrick Cho

There has been a lot of talk recently in evangelical circles about social justice and the gospel. The dialogue has particularly ramped up since the publishing of the “Statement on Social Justice and the Gospel” (which I happily signed). Much heated exchange has taken place between those who want to guard against “mission drift” in the church with the incorporation (and even substitution) of social issues into the gospel message and ministry, and those who want greater awareness of real or perceived social injustices.

Sadly, it seems there is a lot of talking past one another and not enough helpful dialogue. Kevin DeYoung writes a helpful article explaining some of the disconnect – a disagreement on definitions. Evangelicals are divided on the definitions of terms such as racism, justice, micro-aggressions, intersectionality, etc., and this makes it very difficult to address these issues or potential solutions. There may never be agreement for the various sides of the debate. There may never be agreement on what the real issues are or how to combat them. Regardless, no matter how you define terms related to social justice, the church should be united on the gospel. There is no question that all Christians in this debate should agree on what is or is not the gospel of Jesus Christ.