Counsels on Social Issue
Counsel #13 — Living Justice Jesus’ Way
Picture: Counsel #13 — Living Justice Jesus’ Way CSI 15.1
In a world where 719 million people live in abject poverty,[31] Jesus’ example of caring for the poor and disadvantaged resonates with His followers more than ever. He showed compassion to those often overlooked, built bonds of trust, and met their most pressing needs. In our quest to follow His lead, let’s look at just a few examples of Jesus in action! CSI 15.2
- Feeds five thousand hungry people[32]
- Heals a blind beggar[33]
- Heals the paralytic at the pool of Bethesda[34]
- Instructs a rich young ruler to give all he has to the poor[35]
- Tells the story of The Good Samaritan[36]
- Loves Zacchaeus, a tax collector, into giving half of his possessions to the poor[37]
- Heals ten lepers — one is a foreigner[38]
Christ's advocacy for the marginalized and oppressed wasn't just a sermon topic; alleviating suffering—and promoting that relief—was His daily agenda. CSI 15.3
"Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?" James 2:15, 16 NIV CSI 15.4
“Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” Ellen White[39] in The Ministry of Health and Healing, p.73 CSI 15.5
Reflect: How can you move from mere conversation about social justice to meaningful action? CSI 15.6