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The Herald December 10 1982
CHRISTIANITY should never be an ally or enemy of any political system, says the general secretary of the Association of Evangelicals of Africa and Madagascar, Dr Tokumboh Adeyemo.
Speaking to The Herald, Dr Adeyemo, who is also chairman of the World Evangelical Fellowship, said the church should be able to exist in any democratic system, be it socialist or capitalist, as long as the system did not contradict the law of God.
“The church should not, however, isolate itself from reality. It should be involved in politics, business, the judiciary, academic fields and other areas of social life.
“We are not of this world, but in this world and that is why it is important for us to be part and parcel of the struggle to build a better world for all people.
“Jesus Christ did not call his disciples to go to heaven, but to go into the world and serve the people,” said Dr Adeyemo.
If Christianity did not strive to create better citizens then there was something very wrong. The church should not only preach of pies in the sky, but should give people a taste of heaven here on earth, he said.
“The eternal life which Jesus Christ offers his followers begins here and now.”
Dr Adeyemo said the church should work side by side with the Government for the development of the country, which should include creating opportunities for the total betterment of the people.
The church should cooperate with the Government in areas like education, appropriate technology, agriculture, art and craft and the preservation of culture.
“I don’t see any philosophical objective of having the church if it does not help in the general development of people.
“In every sphere of life, Christians must not be afraid to stand up and be counted as followers of Jesus Christ. They should never be afraid,” he said.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
The Church is the body of Christ with major responsibilities in society, apart from preaching the gospel and making people live Christ-like lives.
Compassionate ministries have seen the church providing invaluable assistance to the vulnerable; visiting the sick in hospital and carrying out prison ministries that help in the rehabilitation of offenders.
The Bible says, “righteousness and justice are the foundation of ‘God’s’ throne”. The Church therefore has a responsibility to ensure that justice is enjoyed by all, without fear or favour.
The separation of State and Church can be difficult in a society where everyone — politicians included — profess the Christian faith. While one can be a politician for a period, it is not the same with faith matters. You’re meant to be a Christian through and through.
Online Reporter