Social Justice ≠ Humanism: Let’s Set the Record Straight!

BigStock Photo ID: 424473461

Some church people think that social justice is humanism. I needed to educate by addressing that ridiculous notion. So let’s break it down, shall we?

The call for social justice isn’t a modern or secular idea — it’s a thread that runs through the entire canon of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, God reveals His heart for the oppressed, marginalized, and vulnerable. Yet, some Christians hesitate to embrace a Jesus-and-justice framework, fearing it aligns more with humanism than with the Gospel. This perspective often stems from misinformation about what social justice means and how it fits within our faith. Let’s unpack these misconceptions and reaffirm why justice is central to following Jesus.

The Biblical Foundation of Justice (Yeah, it’s actually in the Bible!)

1. God’s Nature Is Just
   Justice isn’t a human construct; it flows from the very character of God. In Deuteronomy 32:4, we read that God’s works are perfect and all His ways are just. Psalm 89:14 tells us that righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne. Time and again, God commands His people to defend the oppressed, care for widows and orphans, and uphold fairness (Isaiah 1:17, Micah 6:8).
2. Jesus Lived Justice
   Jesus’ ministry was deeply rooted in justice. In Luke 4:18–19, He announced His mission to proclaim good news to the poor, release captives, and set the oppressed free. He not only spoke about justice but actively confronted systems of oppression, whether by challenging corrupt temple practices or overturning social norms that excluded the marginalized (Matthew 23:23, John 4:7–26).
3. Justice Requires Action
   James 2:14–17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. Biblical justice isn’t just about intentions or beliefs — it’s about action. It’s about aligning our lives with God’s call to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:31) and addressing inequities that harm His image-bearers.
4. Reconciliation Demands Justice
   The Gospel is about reconciliation — both between humanity and God and among people. True reconciliation isn’t possible without addressing the injustices that fracture relationships and communities. As 2 Corinthians 5:18–19 states, God gave us the ministry of reconciliation, calling us to repair what is broken in light of His redemptive work.

Misinformation About Justice in Christianity

Despite the clear biblical mandate, misinformation has led many Christians to question or even reject the pursuit of social justice as part of their faith. Most of this misinformation comes from people who say they follow Jesus and attend churches nationwide. Sharing this is scary and explains why so many have drunk the kool-aide of Christian nationalism. Let’s address some common misconceptions:

1. “Justice Is a Secular Idea”
   Justice isn’t a worldly invention; it’s rooted in God’s heart. By sidelining justice out of fear of secular influences, we distort our witness and deny an essential aspect of God’s character.
2. “Social Justice Prioritizes Humanity Over God”
   Loving God and loving our neighbors are inseparable commands (Matthew 22:37–39). Pursuing justice honors God by affirming His image in others and responding to their needs.
3. “Preaching Justice Distracts from the Gospel”
   Justice is the Gospel in action. Jesus didn’t just preach about salvation; He demonstrated it by healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and advocating for the oppressed. Proclaiming the Good News without embodying justice reduces the Gospel to empty words.
4. “It’s Marxism, Not Christianity”
   Caring for the poor and pursuing equity isn’t Marxism — it’s the Sermon on the Mount. Let’s not let ideological labels prevent us from obeying God’s call to love and serve others sacrificially.

Matthew 25 and its Implications

My spiritual dad recently made an observation of scripture that I have never thought about but it has made me feel like it must be communicated to others as well. Matthew 25:40–46, particularly verse 46, challenges Christians to reflect deeply on their faith and actions.

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ 41 “Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, 43 I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.’ 44 “They also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ 45 “He will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’ 46 “Then they will go away to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.”

Matthew 25:40–46, particularly verse 46, carries significant implications for the church in general (but this message is for those in the Latino church), as it calls for a reflection on faith that actively serves others, especially the marginalized. Here are some key implications:

1. Faith in Action: The passage challenges the church to move beyond personal spirituality and into tangible acts of service. Faith is demonstrated through caring for “the least of these” — the hungry, thirsty, stranger, sick, and imprisoned.
2. Advocacy for Social Justice: Addressing systemic issues like poverty, immigration, and incarceration aligns with the call to care for those in need.
3. Hospitality and Inclusivity: The command to welcome strangers resonates strongly with the experience of many Latino communities, particularly immigrants. The church is encouraged to extend radical hospitality to all, regardless of legal status or background.
4. Prioritizing the Marginalized: This passage underscores the importance of focusing ministry efforts on the most vulnerable, reflecting Christ’s preferential option for the poor and oppressed.
5. Accountability for Inaction: Verse 46 warns of the consequences of neglecting the vulnerable. Eternal punishment! The church must evaluate whether its programs, budgets, and outreach efforts prioritize serving others or maintaining comfort.

Faith and Action Go Hand in Hand

As Christians, we can’t cherry-pick which parts of Scripture we follow. The same Bible that calls us to personal holiness also calls us to justice and mercy. If you are in a church that says otherwise, you really should leave. Micah 6:8 doesn’t mince words: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”

So regardless of the people teaching that social justice is humanism or suggesting that it is all a part of a political platform or a man-made idea, they are just showcasing how much of the Bible they don’t know.

Social justice isn’t a side mission for Christians — it’s central to the work of God’s kingdom. It’s about aligning our faith with God’s heart for restoration, reconciliation, and righteousness. Embracing justice doesn’t diminish the Gospel; it fulfills it.